This is the last book I will be sharing/writing before the Return of the King. I has been an interesting journey for sure. Rather educational as well, definitely learned a lot more about the Middle Earth and the characters within. So while reading and writing the ending to this adventure on the way to Return of the King. I happened to find another book expanding on the Middle Earth and it’s history. An Encyclopedia of Tolkien by David Day, who also wrote The Dark Powers of Tolkien. I have to say I was rather surprised by this lovely novel of information!
A comprehensive, illustrated guide to the history, lands, and inhabitants of Middle-earth.
The fantasy world of J. R. R. Tolkien’s Middle-earth contains a rich assortment of people, cities, and creatures—as well as a deep, intertwined history that spans thousands of years. In this beautifully illustrated, leather-bound volume, best-selling author and Tolkien scholar David Day presents four decades of research and writing on the lands and inhabitants Middle-earth. Sections of this A-to-Z dictionary are devoted to discussion of the battles, history, beasts, and heroes of Tolkien’s stories, and are accompanied by black-and-white illustrations. This comprehensive volume on Tolkien’s world also includes an appendix of three primary legends that served as sources for Tolkien’s creations—the Volsunga saga, the Nibelungenlied, and Richard Wagner’s Ring Cycle—and more than 200 black-and-white illustrations.
While reading this encyclopedia, it reminded me of why I started this adventure/challenge. The art work is fantastic and beyond easy to navigate through it pages. The information is beyond detailed and I wish I had found this before I had started this quest. BUT in some small way I am happy I didn’t, having to dig through the Mirkwood that is the internet to find these stories/characters was half the fun. With this book it has helped me figure out how to end this challenge the right way. Not just stop..
This novel by David Day is a must for any Middle Earth fan. I do find most of David Day books to be a hit or a miss. He has a number of them based around Tolkien’s work and then some. So if you get the chance I would definitely check him if you can, most of his stuff can be found at Costco for super cheap or a local book store.
In an odd way I can’t help to feel a little bit of sadness, now that I am nearing the end of the challenge. Unlike the other ones I have done in the past, this one was more personal for me. It’s hard to explain really… I’ve always enjoy the Lord of the Rings, I figured while I am stuck at home do to Covid. Why not start a challenge centered around the Middle Earth! I just didn’t expect to feel this attachment to this fictitious world and characters. ANYWHO!! Hope you guys have enjoyed this adventure as much as I have.
Home of the Nerdy Viking 