The Fellowship of the Ring by J.R.R. Tolkien

The first part of Tolkien's epic masterpiece, The Lord of the Rings, featuring an exclusive cover designed to complement the new 'History of Middle-earth' series. Sauron, the Dark Lord, has gathered to him all the Rings of Power -- the means by which he intends to rule Middle-earth. All he lacks in his plans for dominion is the One Ring -- the ring that rules them all -- which has fallen into the hands of the hobbit, Bilbo Baggins. In a sleepy village in the Shire, young Frodo Baggins finds himself faced with an immense task, as his elderly cousin Bilbo entrusts the Ring to his care. Frodo must leave his home and make a perilous journey across Middle-earth to the Cracks of Doom, there to destroy the Ring and foil the Dark Lord in his evil purpose. Now available in smart a new livery to match the 'History of Middle-earth' series, and impossible to describe in a few words, JRR Tolkien's great work of imaginative fiction has been labelled both a heroic romance and a classic fantasy fiction. By turns comic and homely, epic and diabolic, the narrative moves through countless changes of scene and character in an imaginary world which is totally convincing in its detail.

I listened to all the books in a row. I was certainly influenced by the movie. For every scene read, I kept visualizing the movie in my head, and growing in anticipation for the next event I knew it was going to happen.

The movie was a masterpiece. It is not much fair to compare it to the book, since both were exceptionally good and serves different purposes when experiencing them. Still, I would say the movie was better.

As any fantasy book, it was filled with descriptions, which made it hard to understand for many parts. I didn't mind the singing, I think it enriched the story. Although I also didn't get much of the songs lyrics.

Tolkien dedicated his whole life to bring to life the world of Middle Earth. He created many races, including their own language and main characters genealogical backgrounds. He described every road, turn, mount and forest with vivid details. He thought of the world geology, and its evolution throughout the ages. Every character is interesting, and the dialogs are all you would expect from a fantasy epic.

Although I was sad it was over, It felt very fulfilling, seeing all the characters had their fair ending.

A long time ago I tried to read this book. I made it to page 65 before finally giving up. Tolkien uses so many descriptions and adds SO many characters! It becomes overwhelming and boring.

I opted instead for this audiobook. It was intended for radio audiences. It was SO much better. It doesn't say it was abridged, but it used different voice actors to differentiate the different character's dialog. That sped up the pace drastically. Finally I was able to enjoy the world that so many others have raved about.

Before I didn't want anything to do with the books. Now I can't wait to start the next one.

This book is such a comfort and joy, and I love it more every time I read it. Easily my favorite part of my favorite novel; and the novel that I think is the greatest of any book I've read. The Lord of the Rings is so incredibly special.