There are fans of J.R.R. Tolkien, and then there are those who would trade a genuine elven sword for a chance to visit Middle-earth. Those in the latter camp are certain to find Jeb Smith’s new vividly-illustrated book Middle-earth Lore to be a wonderfully satisfying quest worthy of even the geekiest Tolkienite—the “One book to rule them all.”
Our journey begins by entering Tolkien’s mind, where we will come to realize that he did not consider himself the creator of Middle-earth but its discoverer. Tolkien desired that his tales be digested as historical events. We will then be walked through Peter Jackson's portrayal of The Lord of the Rings in his filmography, where there is much to praise – but also some sacrilegious exaggerations in dire need of mending.
Tunneling deeper than Dwarves mining for Mithril, we'll expose the core—the very root of the mountain—that is the heart and soul of this book: Tolkien’s Legendarium. As we dig, be prepared for an unearthing and examination of many long-held assumptions, including those on subjects from the strength of the Valar, the Mumakil, Balrogs, and the Númenóreans, to the true identity of Gandalf and much more. In the concluding section, Smith provides an overview of the military prowess of Middle-earth's different realms and creatures during The War of the Ring. This chapter delves into the weapons, tactics, units, commanders and number of troops of the various realms, as well as the might of creatures such as trolls and ents and much more, offering a better understanding of the military aspect of Tolkien's renowned saga.
As a result of our quest, our excavation leaves us with a distinct appreciation for why these clarifications of Lore are necessary to make Middle-earth truly come to life in all its inspired brilliance.