The Book of Lost Tales

By J.R.R. Tolkien

Book #2 in the The History of Middle-Earth series

Uncover ancient tales of Middle-earth, where legendary heroes face dragons and doomed love amidst evolving Elvish lore.

3.9/5 Goodreads · 9,231 ratings

391 pages

$9.99Save 4%

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Bookroo's summary

Journey into Middle-earth's forgotten tales, where Beren and Lúthien's love defies fate, Túrin battles a fearsome dragon, and the tragic Fall of Gondolin unfolds. Each story, enriched by Christopher Tolkien's insightful commentary, reveals the evolution of Elvish languages and the deep roots of Tolkien's mythology. Discover the origins of legendary narratives and the intricate genealogies that shaped the world of The Lord of the Rings. What secrets lie in the names and histories of these timeless characters?

From the publisher

“Tolkien devotees will no doubt rejoice. . . . Christopher Tolkien shows himself to be his father’s son, delving into the question of Elvish genealogies. . . . He gives the reader histories of each character’s name as it evolved in the course of Tolkien’s revisions.”–The New York Times Book Review This fascinating second part of The Book of Lost Tales features the tales of Beren and Lúthien, Túrin and the Dragon, and the only full narratives of the Necklace of the Dwarves and the Fall of Gondolin. Essential reading for Middle-earth aficionados, each tale is followed by commentary from editor Christopher Tolkien. Also included is extensive information on the names and vocabulary in the earliest Elvish languages. “The Tales will be appreciated by those who have read The Silmarillion and wish to examine how Tolkien improved his story and style from their original form, and how eventually The Lord of the Rings came to stand independently with only a few hints from the early mythology.”–British Book News

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