001 - The Fellowship of the Steve (or, The Eagles Are Coming!)

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.

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 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.

This series, compiled and edited by Christopher Tolkien, provides an out-of-universe history of J.R. R. Tolkien's creative process. It includes early drafts, notes, and unpublished works that reveal the evolution of Middle-earth, its peoples, languages, and history. The volumes cover the entire span of Tolkien's work on his mythology, from the 'Book of Lost Tales' to the later writings that shaped 'The Silmarillion' and 'The Lord of the Rings'. The series is essential for understanding Tolkien's imaginative art and the complexity of his legendarium.

This book is a compilation of narratives and essays that J.R. R. Tolkien left unfinished at the time of his death. Edited by Christopher Tolkien, it includes stories and historical accounts that expand on the world of Middle-earth, covering events from the Elder Days to the end of the War of the Ring. The collection provides detailed information about characters, events, and places mentioned briefly in 'The Lord of the Rings' and 'The Silmarillion', such as the origins of Gandalf, the death of Isildur, and the founding of Rohan. Each tale is accompanied by extensive notes and commentary by Christopher Tolkien, helping to contextualize the stories within the broader legendarium of Middle-earth.