The Magical Worlds of Lord of the Rings: The Amazing Myths, Legends and Facts Behind the Masterpiece

by David Colbert

Book Overview

The author who revealed the myths behind J.K. Rowling's creatures now tackles literature's most beloved epic fantasy, by bringing to light the legends that influenced J.R.R. Tolkien--and answering pertinent questions ranging from Why do Hobbits live in holes? to When in the world is Middle-earth?

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0425187713
• ISBN13: 9780425187715
• Release Date: October 2002
• Publisher: Berkley Publishing Group
• Length: 197 Pages
• Weight: 0.68 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.6" x 5.5" x 8.4"
• Age Range: 18 years and up
• Grade Range: Grade 12 and higher

Customer Reviews

😍😍

Incredible book!!! I've enjoyed it so much 💖

Interesting "behind-the-pages" look at Lord of the Rings!"

The Magical World of the Lord of the Rings reveals many of the inspirations and real-life stories behind Tolkien's trilogy. As with most contemporary sci-fi/fantasy movies or series, this trilogy was based on many different myths and legends that inspired Tolkien (many being of Scandinavian origin). Although it may be filled with info that hard-core fans already know of (most of the references are taken from other biographies of Tolkien and the trilogy), this book is likely suitable for fans who have become recently interested in the books and/or movies, or those long-terms fans who may not know as much of the trilogy's "story-behind-the-story" as they thought. Being a fan of these books since I was a kid, when I first picked this up at the airport I assumed it was likely loaded with background info that I already knew and that only the casual "movie-going" fans weren't aware of. However, I was pleasantly surprised by the content and stories revealed behind the series that I did not know - for instance, that the scene in "the Hobbit" concerning Bilbo's discovery of the Ring was originally written differently before Tolkien decided to follow up "the Hobbit" (originally intended more as a children's book) with the more sophisticated LOTR trilogy. Tolkien came up with a creative and plausible way for the modification to "the Hobbit" that fit into the overall storyline of LOTR. Overall, this should be an interesting and enjoyable read for fans of the series. Some readers may feel a bit cheated by a pretty quick-paced, large-worded, read for $13.00; however, I was personally surprised by the amount of content included within the pages. Though the chapters were short, they were concisely written, and seemed just about right for the subjects they dealt with. The author could have made the chapters longer to make the book seem more worth the money, but I don't think this would necessarily have made the book any better - just longer. I found this an entertaining and enjoyable read, and I recommend it. I also learned a lot more about the interesting legends and fables, themselves, that LOTR was based on. Further, I'll even admit that I liked the book well enough to consider buying the "behind-the-pages" book on Harry Potter; even though I have yet to read a single Harry Potter book or see the movies. Even though this isn't a classic (and I'm not sure I'd call it "amazing"), I give it 4 1/2 out of 5 stars as I think it hits what it was shooting for - an interesting and even educational read (as well as an easy one) about one the most influential series out there.

execellent!

Did you know that, our word excellentis derived from "excalibur"?meaning, beyond human standards, or pleasing to the gods. That what this book does, it gives the root of legends. Its a must readalong with. The Magical Worlds of Harry Potter, and,The Sorcerer's Companion. This is why, i like children's booksto get the same, info. I would had to pour through, dozens of books. in many libraries, [been there, done that.] And never Really, get the answers to my questions.These simple books answer most, questions in a fun easy to read style.

Draws together insights from other works of fiction & fable

Tolkien's epic fantasies deserve a strong reader's supplement, and David Colbert's Magical Worlds Of Lord Of The Rings will appeal to any teen interested in the folklore and legends behind his Middle Earth worlds. From Finnish sagas to Shakespeare and King Arthur, Magical Worlds Of Lord Of The Rings draws together insights from other works of fiction and fable to lend added depth to Tolkien's creation.

delightful

If you read The Hobbit as a child and never got around to LOTR and the Simarillion, or if you are a new fan because of the movies this is a perfect book for you. Although the tone of the book is lighthearted and fun, the author obviously did his homework. He explains LOTR and The Hobbit by answering questions that new fans have. Why are Tolkein's elves so tall? Where did the idea for hobbits come from? How old is Gollum anyway? He tells how Shelob the spider came to be (Tolkien was attacked by a tarantula as a small child) and what Gandalf really is, and so much more.The reader will learn that LOTR is heavily inspired by Beowulf and Norse mythology. After reading this well written and amusing book I have decided to re-read LOTR. I now have even more respect for J.R.R. Tolkein. This book is actually a respectful tribute to him and his genius.

Wow!

Just an average reader who loved the Lord of the Rings and then found this little wonder which explained and clarified lots of things I found confusing in Tolkien. It worked so well I went back and re-read Rings again, this time thoroughly enjoying and understanding everything. Highly recommended for both the curious as well as those who want to know more in a fun and interesting way.