Book Review: J.R.R. Tolkien: The Making of a Legend

About J.R.R. Tolkien: The Making of a Legend

(from back cover of book)
Long before the successful The Lord of the Rings films, J.R.R. Tolkien's creations, imaginations, and characters had captured the attention of millions of readers.  But who was the man who dreamt up the intricate languages and perfectly crafted world of Middle-earth?

Tolkien had a difficult life for many years: orphaned and poor, his guardian forbad him to communicate with the woman he had fallen in love with, and he went through the horrors of the First World War.  An intensely private and brilliant scholar, he spent over fifty years working on the languages, history, peoples, and geography of Middle-earth, with a consistent mythology inspired by a formidable knowledge of early northern European history and culture.  J.R.R. Tolkien became a legend by creating an imaginary world that has enthralled and delighted generations.  This engaging and accessible biography brings him to life.

My thoughts on J.R.R. Tolkien: The Making of a Legend

I have mixed feelings on this book.  While I thoroughly enjoyed learning about how J.R.R. Tolkien came up with his ideas for the amazing world of Middle-earth, I found the book to be jumpy, a bit confusing and somewhat redundant at parts.  I recommend it to any one who enjoys J.R.R. Tolkien, but be warned that the author does jump back and forth quite often and it can be difficult to follow.  On the other hand, the book offered great insight into the life and mind, and therefore the inspirations of J.R.R. Tolkien.

Disclaimer
I received the above book in order to facilitate my review.  All opinions are my own.