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Synopsis
Special unjacketed hardback edition JRR Tolkien's legacy of shorter works that inhabit the realm of The Hobbit, The Lord of the Rings and The Silmarillion, which were presented for publication by Christopher Tolkien. Unfinished Tales is a collection of narratives ranging in time from the Elder Days of Middle-earth to the end of the War of the Ring, and provides those who have read The Lord of the Rings with a whole collection of background and new stories from the twentieth century's most acclaimed popular author. The book concentrates on the realm of Middle-earth and comprises such elements as Gandalf's lively account of how it was that he came to send the Dwarves to the celebrated party at Bag-End, the emergence of the sea-god Ulmo before the eyes of Tuor on the coast of Beleriand, and an exact description of the military organization of the Riders of Rohan. Unfinished Tales also contains the only story about the long ages of Númenor before its downfall, and all that is known about such matters as the Five Wizards, the Palantíri and the legend of Amroth. The tales were collated and edited by JRR Tolkien's son and literary heir, Christopher Tolkien, who provides a short commentary on each story, helping the reader to fill in the gaps and put each story into the context of the rest of his father's writings. This special 'collectors hardback' edition of the work includes a unique cover design.
Is Unfinished Tales appropriate for my child?
Suitable for most readers 10 and up.
This collection of Middle-earth background stories contains moderate fantasy violence typical of Tolkien's work (battles, wars) but no sexual content or strong language. Complex prose and historical depth make it best suited for dedicated Tolkien fans.
What to know going in
This book has moderate violence, no sexual content, and clean language. Content notes include death and war.
Publisher ages reflect reading level; our rating reflects content maturity — they can differ.
Who'll love this
Fans of The Lord of the Rings will love learning the untold stories behind Gandalf's adventures, the Riders of Rohan, and the lost kingdom of Númenor.