The War of the Jewels : Book Review

"The War of the Jewels" is an essential and captivating volume for fans of J.R.R. Tolkien's legendarium. Edited by Christopher Tolkien, the son of the renowned author, this book explores the extensive history and development of Middle-earth, offering invaluable insights into Tolkien's creative process and the evolution of his stories.

One of the main highlights of this book is its profound exploration of the creation of "The Silmarillion." It reveals the numerous revisions and changes that occurred during its conception, presenting different versions of chapters that allow readers to witness the progression of characters and events over time. Christopher Tolkien's meticulous annotations and commentary provide rich context, enhancing the reading experience and shedding light on the intricacies of Tolkien's world-building.

A particularly intriguing component of "The War of the Jewels" is the inclusion of "The Quenta Silmarillion," an early version of the seminal work. This alternative narrative deepens the familiar story, offering fascinating glimpses into Tolkien's original vision. The book also features several appendices that further expand upon the lore, providing readers with the opportunity to delve into the intricacies of Middle-earth.

Beyond the exploration of the narrative, "The War of the Jewels" also delves into Tolkien's linguistic craftsmanship. It delves into the creation of Elvish languages, emphasizing Tolkien's meticulous attention to detail and his commitment to crafting a fully immersive world. This linguistic analysis adds a unique and fascinating dimension to the book, showcasing Tolkien's genius in creating a comprehensive fictional universe.

Overall, "The War of the Jewels" is a must-read for enthusiasts of J.R.R. Tolkien's works. It offers a comprehensive and scholarly examination of the author's work, providing readers with an in-depth understanding of the rich tapestry of Middle-earth. With its meticulous annotations, alternative narratives, and linguistic exploration, this book is a treasure trove for those seeking to delve deeper into the world created by one of the most influential authors in fantasy literature.

What are readers saying?

J.R.R. Tolkien's book, "The War of the Jewels," has garnered a range of reactions from readers. Many people praised Tolkien's meticulous attention to detail and his ability to create a deep and immersive fantasy world. They appreciated how he expanded upon the mythology and history of Middle-earth, providing a greater understanding of the events and characters from his previous works. Readers were particularly impressed by Tolkien's ability to make his fantasy world feel authentic and coherent.

However, there were some readers who found "The War of the Jewels" to be overwhelming and difficult to follow. They felt that the book delved too deeply into the intricate details of Tolkien's mythology, overshadowing the storytelling. Particularly for readers who were less familiar with Tolkien's work, navigating through the extensive footnotes and references proved to be a challenge.

Despite this, Tolkien's skilful portrayal of complex characters received praise from many reviewers. Readers appreciated the depth and development of his protagonists and villains, finding them to be multi-dimensional and relatable. Tolkien's ability to create morally ambiguous characters and explore the internal struggles and motives behind their actions impressed many readers.

On the other hand, some reviewers criticized the pacing of the book. They found it to be slow and dragging at times, lacking a sense of urgency. The plot was also considered meandering by some, which made it harder to maintain interest throughout the entire book.

In conclusion, "The War of the Jewels" demonstrates Tolkien's mastery of world-building and character development. However, the extensive details and pacing issues proved to be overwhelming and disengaging for some readers. Nevertheless, fans of Tolkien's legendarium and those seeking a deeper understanding of Middle-earth's history and mythology may still find this book to be a valuable addition to their collection.

WaroftheJewels TolkienGems FantasyReads