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J. R. R. Tolkien

Author of the Century

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J. R. R. Tolkien

By: Tom Shippey
Narrated by: Colin Mace
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About this listen

The definitive critical study of Tolkien’s greatest works by the respected and world renowned Tolkien scholar Professor T.A. Shippey.

Following the unprecedented and universal acclaim for The Lord of the Rings, the respected academic and world-renowned Tolkien scholar, Professor Tom Shippey, presents us with a fascinating and informed companion to the world of J.R.R. Tolkien, in particular focusing on The Hobbit, The Lord of the Rings and The Silmarillion.

Written in a clear and accessible style, J. R. R. Tolkien: Author of the Century reveals why all of these books will be timeless, and shows how even such complex works as The Silmarillion can be read enjoyably. Taking issue with the uninformed criticism that has often been levelled at Tolkien and fantasy in general, Professor Shippey offers a new approach to Tolkien, to fantasy and to the importance of language in literature, and demonstrates how his books form part of a live and continuing tradition of storytelling that can trace its roots back through Grimm's Fairy Tales to The Elder Edda and Beowulf.

©2011 Tom Shippey (P)2022 HarperCollins Publishers Limited Art & Literature Authors Literary History & Criticism Fantasy Fiction Storytelling

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Critic reviews

"Shippey's exploration of Tolkien's themes, especially the nature of evil, is superb." (Independent)

"A timely, erudite and eminently readable book." (Evening Standard)

"Shippey's research seems limitless. He writes with unusual clarity and presents his arguments well." (Sunday Times)
All stars
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A very specific aspect of Tolkien’s work is addressed here and to my mind very profitably. I found the technical analysis pitched just right, at the keen amateur. It left this life long Tolkien fan that little bit better informed, and was a very pleasant journey. Excellent, genial narration throughout.

Philology foregrounded!

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Tom Shippey's "J.R.R. Tolkien: Author of the Century" is an excellent in-depth analysis of Tolkien's work, especially "The Hobbit" and "The Lord of the Rings." I've read Tolkien, especially "The Lord of the Rings," countless times, but Shippey's study of the text showed me new landscapes of Tolkien's work and world. This is an essential book and a massive treat for all lovers of Tolkien's work.

What a delicious treat!

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An incredibly insightful and informative book, brimming with actual analysis and critical reflection on Tolkien, 20th century literature and criticism. A must-read (or listen) for any Tolkien fan.

Incredibly insightful and informative

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erudite, detailed, informed. I am amazed at how many levels Tolkein's work can be analysed. as someone for whom The Hobbit (in particular) was hugely enjoyable I loved reading this critic.

erudition

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A brilliant work of philology about the most brilliant philologist of all. Incredibly satisfying and enlightening analysis.

Required reading for Tolkien fans.

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Profoundly insightful and a good listen for Tolkien fans. Diligently and enthusiastically performed as though he was the author himself.
I've been reading and re-reading Tolkien and Son for 50 years now, and still found something in this that made me re-think and realise just how much I don't know about ME.
Puts the snobs of literary criticism in their place too; "Beauty is in the eyes of the beholder"; even a moron knows that.
Many thanks Tom Shippey, Colin Mace and wonderful, wonderful audible.😊 Mick the Hick

Profoundly insightful; a good listen.

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A marvellous deep-dive into the philology and inspiration behind Tolkien's works. I feel like I can now appreciate his work on a whole new level!

A must read for any Tolkien fan

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Tom Shippey is one of the foremost 'Tolkien scholars', a phrase which is pretty overused in my humble opinion, but if you love Lord of the Rings or any of the works of the legendary author then you could do much worse than this great overview of the man himself, his personal motivations, literary inspirations and some of the deeper themes and truths of his writing output. Tom Shippey is a skilled apologist for Tolkien and writes in what is an evidently well-researched and scholarly style while remaining truly accessible to all and the audiobook is narrated very clearly, 4/5 stars.

An Admirable Overview

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I approve of the appreciation of the author and the analysis of his thinking and writing.

Strength of Character.

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I have read many scores of books about Tolkien, and this easily is among the top ten. Tremendous insights, rooted in deep knowledge. it is also well narrated in a pleasant voice, and with a strong sense of engagement and narrative drive.

One of the very best books on Tolkien

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