The new Rough Guide to the Lord of the Rings is a key to everything Middle-earth: a must read for Tolkien enthusiasts and a revelation for audiences of the motion picture trilogy. Features include: The origins: The Story of JRR Tolkien and how that story led him to create the finest fantasy novel of the last century. The books: A Critical, informed guide to Tolkien's work, the mythology which inspired him and a look at how the book has influenced Terry Pratchett, Marc Bolan and George Lucas. The Motion Picture Trilogy: An in-depth look at the making of the films, the crucial casting decisions, on-set trivia, the books' journey through Hollywood development hell and the thoughts of director Peter Jackson and star Christopher Lee. The Characters: Your definitive guide to the populace of Middle-earth. And a guide to the intricacies of Elvish. The Context: How Tolkien's The Lord of the Rings inspired computer games, Russian politics, environmental campaigners and even progressive rock.

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