I Am in Fact a Hobbit: An Introduction to the Life and Works of J. R. R. Tolkien

by Perry C. Bramlett, Joe R. Christopher

Whether you've been a fan for years or you've just recently been hooked by the blockbuster "Lord of the Rings movies, ""I Am in Fact a Hobbit" is an excellent starting point into the life and work of J. R. R. Tolkien. This indispensable and concise introduction to the career of J. R. R. Tolkien includes: - a biographical chapter about the man who was a brilliant Oxford professor and Catholic Christian, loving father and devoted husband, and close friend of C. S. Lewis- overviews and discussions of his best-selling popular works such as the "Hobbit and the "Lord of the Rings, his often overlooked academic works and his children's books such as "Roverandom and "Mr. Bliss- a detailed chronology of the important events and times of his life and career- an extensive listing of his works, both published and unpublished- a resource bibliography of the best works about him

Genres: Nonfiction

254 pages, Paperback

First published October 1, 2002

Reviews

[L. · Rating 4 out of 5]

Definitely re-piqued my interest in Tolkien, heightened by the death of his son a few days ago. I've been reading this book for months, slowly making my way through this splendid tour of Tolkien's writing. The finality of Christopher's passing reminds me that I need to actually read more and more often, because there is only so much time to enjoy words.

This added some books to my to-read list, and I'll be hunting diligently through 2nd and Charles to find them.

[Monica · Rating 4 out of 5]

“I am in fact a Hobbit in all but size. I like gardens, trees, and unmechanized farmlands; I smoke a pipe, and like good plain food...” - J.R.R. Tolkien

I enjoyed reading this book more than I thought I would! As the title says, it's a fantastic introduction to Tolkien--his life, his work, his struggles, his inspirations. As one who has only recently become interested in reading literary criticisms and histories of Tolkien, Bramlett's biography/overview/discussion of the great author and his works (published and unpublished) is a perfect place to start.

Although Bramlett voices few ideas of his own (he draws heavily on the works of others), the complete book is well put together and carefully planned. Bramlett is clearly an admirer of Tolkien, and I Am in Fact a Hobbit is successful in that it has encouraged me to seek out other, similar works.

[Titus Hjelm]

The biography was a poor man's version of Carpenter's and the book mostly about Tolkien's works.The good thing is that unlike some others, this one included academic research as well. Another plus was that despite the author's credentials, Christianity was not forced on Tolkien and his works.