The worlds of Tolkien

In his new book, John Garth, the renowned Tolkien expert, maps out the geographical places that inspired the writer of The Lord of the Rings and are reflected in Middle-earth and other landscapes and settlements dreamed up by the writer. Among the more than a hundred illustrations that enrich the volume are Tolkien’s own drawings and paintings, as well as works by other artists, archival materials, maps, and picturesque photographs taken today. Getting to know its geographical sources, we travel through Britain, the West Central England and Oxford, which are particularly close to the heart of the writer, but we also travel to America and Africa. We can identify the real-world counterparts of Hobbit Village, the Valley of the Elves, the Shining Caves of the Helm Gorge, many other key points in Middle-earth, mountains, forests, rivers, lakes and coasts. The connections between Tolkien's travels, his reading experiences, his extensive knowledge as an Oxford professor, and the worlds he dreamed of are revealed. A thorough acquaintance with his biography and work, John Garth analyzes the writer’s special vision, creative methods, refutes many common mistakes around Middle-earth while also introducing new theories. The book, which is divided thematically, unfolds the richly illustrated life path of one of the world’s most beloved writers, revealing the connections between the real world and the realm of the imagination.