Books

Tolkien, J.R.R. (2024) 'The Hobbit', UK limited edition, published by the Folio Society. Illustrated and signed by Alan Lee. One of only 1,000 copies which sold out in under 15 minutes. Production details according to the publisher: Quarter-bound in leather with art silk sides. Front board has an inset label printed with an illustration by Alan Lee; Limitation label is printed letterpress and signed by the illustrator​; Typeset in Dante with display set in Testament​; 344 pages print in 2 colours​; Numerous black & white line integrated illustrations​; 28 colour illustrations, hand tipped as plates within borders​; Silver page tops​; Ribbon marker​; Blocked slipcase with printed lining​; Separate maps including Thror's map and a map of Wilderland​; Separate print presented in a folder​; Trimmed size 297mm x 194mm. Alan Lee was born in London, England, in 1947. He attended the Ealing School of Art to study graphic design, concentrating on the depiction of Celtic and Norse myths. Lee is one of the most celebrated living illustrators of myth and fantasy: a recipient of the Kate Greenaway Medal and an Oscar-winner for his conceptual work on Peter Jackson's films of The Lord of the Rings. First and Fine.

"The Hobbit" by J.R.R. Tolkien is a fantasy novel that follows the adventure of Bilbo Baggins, a hobbit who lives a quiet and comfortable life in the Shire. Bilbo is unexpectedly visited by the wizard Gandalf and a group of dwarves led by Thorin Oakenshield. They seek Bilbo's help in reclaiming their homeland, Erebor, which has been taken over by the fearsome dragon Smaug. Reluctant at first, Bilbo eventually joins the quest as the group's burglar. Along the way, they face numerous challenges, including encounters with trolls, goblins, spiders, and elves. Bilbo discovers a magic ring that grants him the power of invisibility, which aids the group in their escape from various dangers. As the journey progresses, Bilbo develops his courage and resourcefulness, proving instrumental in several critical situations. The company faces adversity in the form of hostile creatures and internal conflicts, but they continue their journey toward the Lonely Mountain, where Smaug hoards vast treasures. Upon reaching the Lonely Mountain, Bilbo uses his wit and the ring's power to outsmart Smaug, causing the dragon to be slain by a local hero named Bard. However, conflict arises as other parties, including men, elves, and goblins, lay claim to the treasure. A battle ensues, known as the Battle of the Five Armies, involving dwarves, elves, men, goblins, and wargs. In the midst of the chaos, Bilbo plays a pivotal role in resolving the conflict and preventing further bloodshed. After the battle, Bilbo returns home to the Shire, forever changed by his adventures. He realizes that while he has gained riches and experiences, the most valuable treasure he possesses is the personal growth and bravery he discovered during his unexpected journey. "The Hobbit" is a tale of courage, friendship, and personal transformation, set in Tolkien's intricately crafted world of Middle-earth. It serves as a prelude to his epic masterpiece, "The Lord of the Rings," and remains a beloved classic in the realm of fantasy literature.