Author:  J.R.R. Tolkien

Genre:  Fantasy

Ratings

Enjoyability/Awesomeness:  7

• Action:  7
• Suspense:  6
• Boredom:  5
• Romance:  7
• Magic:  8
• Thrills:  4

Recommended Age Range:  15+

• Violence/Fear:  6
• Mature Content:  2
• Language:  1
• Alcohol/Drugs:  1
• Advertising:  1
• Positive Messages:  3
• Role Models:  4

Overview

This is the prequel (in a fashion) to The Lord of the Rings, providing background to the Elves, Sauron, and Middle-Earth.  There is a lot of information packed into this book for true LOTR fan(atic)s, but be warned: this book is not for the easily bored.  J.R.R. Tolkien’s typical third-person style is difficult to follow for many, but persevere and the secrets of Middle Earth will be revealed.  As a side note, reserve at least a few weeks to read this book, you will need frequent breaks.