The Fall of Gondolin

"The Fall of Gondolin" is a posthumously published work by J.R.R. Tolkien, edited by his son Christopher Tolkien and released in August 2018. The book tells the story of the destruction of the elven city of Gondolin, which was one of the key events in the mythology of Middle-earth.

The book is a fascinating glimpse into Tolkien's creative process and the evolution of his legendarium. It includes several versions of the story, ranging from early drafts to the more polished and complete version that Tolkien was working on before his death.

As with all of Tolkien's works, the world-building in "The Fall of Gondolin" is exquisite. The city of Gondolin is a marvel of elven architecture and engineering, and the various characters and creatures that populate the story are vividly imagined and fully realized.

The battle scenes in the book are particularly impressive, showcasing Tolkien's talent for creating epic and immersive set pieces. The Fall of Gondolin is a powerful and tragic story, and the book does an excellent job of conveying the sense of loss and sorrow that comes with the destruction of such a magnificent city.

Christopher Tolkien's editing and commentary are also valuable additions to the book, providing insight into his father's creative process and the history of Middle-earth. The illustrations by Alan Lee are also a highlight, bringing the story to life in stunning detail.

Overall, "The Fall of Gondolin" is a must-read for fans of Tolkien's work and for anyone who loves epic fantasy. It's a fitting tribute to one of the greatest literary minds of the 20th century, and a reminder of the enduring power and beauty of his stories.

Booklists having this book

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