105 - Who Wants to Leave Forever?

The Lord of the Rings, written by J.R. R. Tolkien, is an epic high fantasy novel set in Middle-earth. The story follows Frodo Baggins, a hobbit who inherits the One Ring from his uncle Bilbo. The Ring, forged by Sauron, holds the power to control all other Rings of Power and must be destroyed in the fires of Mount Doom to prevent Sauron's return. Frodo is joined by a fellowship of other characters, including Gandalf the Grey, Samwise Gamgee, Aragorn, Legolas, Gimli, and Boromir, as they embark on a dangerous quest across Middle-earth. The novel explores themes of good vs. evil, the corrupting influence of power, and the struggle between fate and free will.

The Silmarillion is a comprehensive narrative that details the creation of Tolkien's universe, Eä, and the history of the First Age. It includes the legend of the Silmarils, jewels crafted by Fëanor that contain the essence of the Two Trees of Valinor. The book covers the creation of the world, the history of the Elves and Men, the wars against Morgoth, and the legendary love story of Beren and Lúthien. Edited and published posthumously by Christopher Tolkien with the assistance of Guy Gavriel Kay, it is a foundational work that underpins the stories of 'The Hobbit' and 'The Lord of the Rings'.

The Fall of Gondolin is one of Tolkien's three 'Great Tales' from the First Age of Middle-earth. The story revolves around the city of Gondolin, founded by King Turgon, which remains hidden for centuries before being betrayed and destroyed by Morgoth. The narrative follows Tuor, guided by the sea-god Ulmo, as he journeys to Gondolin, marries Turgon's daughter Idril, and fathers Eärendel. The book includes various versions of the story, showing its evolution over the years, and is illustrated by Alan Lee.

This book is part of 'The History of Middle-earth' series and presents the earliest versions of the myths and legends that would eventually become 'The Silmarillion'. It includes stories such as 'The Cottage of Lost Play', 'The Music of the Ainur', and 'The Coming of the Valar and the Building of Valinor'. The tales are set within a narrative frame where a mariner named Eriol learns the true history of the Elves from the inhabitants of Tol Eressëa. The book provides an insightful look into Tolkien's creative process and the development of his mythological world.

Published in 1937, 'The Hobbit' is a children's fantasy novel that introduces readers to the richly imagined world of Middle-earth. The story follows Bilbo Baggins, a home-loving hobbit, who is persuaded by Gandalf to join Thorin and his twelve dwarves on a quest to reclaim their treasure from the dragon Smaug. During the journey, Bilbo encounters various creatures, including trolls, goblins, and the mysterious Gollum, and discovers a magical ring that renders the wearer invisible. The novel is a prequel to 'The Lord of the Rings' and explores themes of personal growth, courage, and unexpected heroism.