The Complete Tolkien Companion [Paperback]

For all those who journey to Middle Earth, here is the complete guide to its lands, legends, histories, languages, and people.The Complete Tolkien Companionexplains, translates, and links every single referencenames, dates, places, facts, famous weapons, even food and drinkto be found in J. R. R. Tolkien's world, which includes not onlyThe HobbitandThe Lord of the Ringsbut alsoThe Simarillionand many other posthumously published works. A detailed explanation of the various Elvish writing systems, together with maps, charts, and genealogical tables, bring the remarkable genius of Tolkien and the unforgettable world and wonder of Middle Earth to life with focus and accuracy. First published in 1976, this is an indispensable accompaniment for anyone who embarks on the reading journey of a lifetime.

The Complete Tolkien Companionby J.E.A. Tyler offers a 712-page A-to-Z guide to Middle-earth minutiae. First published in 1976, it has, no doubt, been saddening countless parents ever since who wish their teenagers pored over their SAT study guides with the same demented fervor. USA Today

If you're a fan of J. R. R. Tolkien'sThe Lord of the Rings, this is a great reference book, as it has entries that will probably jog the memories of even the most ardent adherent....This one has it all. The Kansas City Star

A treasure of arcane information that will be helpful to the casual reader...as well as to the newly minted Niddle Earth fanatic who wants to learn everything as soon as possible. South Florida Sun-Sentinel

The Complete Tolkien Companionis an excellent, proper accounting of the diversity of life in Middle-earth. I found the no-nonsense compilation (with minimal illustrations) refreshingly useful, as it concentrates on being more of a research book for invested Tolkien lovers rather than being a fancifully-illustrated coffee table version. Forbes.com