The Silmarillion: J.R.R. Tolkien Paperback – 1 Aug. 2013

This review is LONG, though I will get straight to the crux of this book's sundered readership, if you will. And then I will address the merits (and they are many) of taking on this masterpiece of a fantasy tale.First off, this book is not for everyone, and understandably so. If you desire a prose like that of the Lord of the Rings or the Hobbit, then the Silmarillion will not sate your wishes I'm afraid, and here's why.The Silmarillion is written in an archaic manner that will make or break the readership. Admittedly, for many, this old-fashioned writing may seem slow and almost disconnected, as if you are reading a textbook of some old literary history. I know this because that was the case for me the first few times I read this book as a teenager. I found myself regularly having to read and re-read sentences as I went in order to make sense of the narration. I confess, my first handful of attempts at this story remained unfinished. After all, how on earth could I enjoy something in which I had to force myself to filter through and comprehend its antique style? It just didn't seem worth it at the time. And many, like my teenage self, will concur.However, I returned to the Silmarillion half a decade past and (after having expanded my pallet of authors and writing styles since my failed attempts at the Silmarillion) I found myself utterly enthralled with this story. No longer did I struggle to follow the complexity of its poetic and flowery manner. I found it was not a story at all, but rather a recounting of history and legend. I lost myself in the lore, and it felt as if I was by the fireside, listening to a bard telling these ancient oral tales. This once archaic nonsense was now incredibly vivid and moving. It was dark and gritty, yet optimistic and beautiful also. Upon finishing the final page, I remembered this palpable sense of achievement and wonder. And ever since, the Silmarillion has reshaped the way I view Tolkien's genius. It truly is a Timeless masterpiece; a monumental achievement on both J.R.R. Tolkien, and his son Christopher Tolkien's part. But take heed: for younger, inexperienced readers (or indeed reeaders who are not thoroughly in sync with the many location and character names of this imaginary world) it will take time and perseverance to follow.Specifically for the new 2021 edition illustrated by Ted Nasmith, the quality is fantastic for the money. The pages are thick and the artwork is truly captivating, further enhancing the story (it is almost a shame to have to turn the page and move on from these beautiful paintings by arguably the best classic Tolkien artist).I cannot stress enough for all fantasy/adventure lovers out there who have not had this joyful and rewarding read: give it a go!

The Silmarillion is a timeless masterpiece that transports readers to a world of myth, magic, and epic storytelling.Crafted by the legendary J.R.R. Tolkien, The Silmarillion is a work of unparalleled depth and imagination. From the creation of the universe to the struggles of heroes and villains across countless ages, Tolkien weaves together a tapestry of interconnected tales that span the history of Middle-earth.What sets The Silmarillion apart is its richly detailed lore and captivating storytelling. Each chapter offers a glimpse into a different era or aspect of Tolkien's vast mythology, from the epic battles of the First Age to the tragic romance of Beren and Lúthien. The prose is poetic and evocative, painting vivid images of a world filled with wonder and danger.One of the standout features of The Silmarillion is its exploration of themes such as fate, free will, and the nature of evil. Through the struggles of its characters, Tolkien delves into complex moral and philosophical questions, inviting readers to ponder the deeper meanings behind the tales.In terms of quality, The Silmarillion is a work of unparalleled craftsmanship. The prose is elegant and lyrical, and the world-building is meticulous and immersive. Whether you're a longtime fan of Tolkien's work or new to his mythology, The Silmarillion offers a rich and rewarding reading experience that is sure to leave a lasting impression.Furthermore, I was impressed by the fast delivery time and overall great service provided by the seller. The book arrived promptly and in perfect condition, allowing me to dive into Tolkien's world without delay.The Silmarillion is a masterpiece of fantasy literature that deserves a place on the bookshelf of every reader. Its timeless tales of heroism, sacrifice, and redemption continue to inspire and captivate audiences around the world, making it a must-read for fans of epic storytelling everywhere.