Complete Guide to Middle Earth

Posted on 14. Nov, 2009 by Goldenstar in General

61EYV5KY2TL._SL160_The Complete Guide to Middle-Earth by Robert Foster isn’t a story you would cuddle up on the couch and read. This is more a reference book. A sort of encyclopedia of Tolkien’s world and the reason I am recommending it is because I believe it is also a fantastic reference for Lord of the Rings Online!

It’s an indexed listing of nearly every term, person, place, thing you will find in Middle Earth. Entries are cross referenced which is great because you know how some characters are known by several names. For example Aragorn alone is known as: Aragorn, Strider, Elessar, Longshanks, Thorongil, Wingfoot, Estel, and the Dúnadan! I may have even missed a few!

Entries are typically not long essays on the topic at hand but more concise explanations or descriptions. A paragraph or two (sometimes more depending on the subject) is given and for me this has been enough to grasp where this item fits in Middle Earth. The book also will reference which of Tolkien’s books that particular topic is referenced as well as the date specific events occurred.

I’m a Tolkien enthusiast and I’ve found this book to be extremely thorough for my needs. I often use it while writing my “From the Book” articles.

I really enjoy having this book around for when I am curious about a particular character or location while playing the game and recommend you pick up The Complete Guide to Middle-Earth for yourself!

We recently received an email that mentioned this book and since it is something I do own myself, thought it may be an interesting topic. Thank you to Jason T. for the reminder!

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4 Responses to “Complete Guide to Middle Earth”

  1. Hambone Hamlet

    14. Nov, 2009

    Good timing with your post. I was in the process of buying some DVDs on Amazon and decided to add this book to my order. I am always looking for more information about Middle-Earth, so thanks.

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  2. Elahndria

    14. Nov, 2009

    Kewl! a new book to add to my collection! i just bought the LoTR 3 book set (1964 Print) the other day… following in the footsteps of Merric and decided to read the books :P

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  3. Jimwise

    14. Nov, 2009

    Seconded! I have always kept this book just to the left of my monitor and I find it pretty much indispensable. Like reading (not listening to – thought hose aren’t bad in a pinch, sorry Merrick!) the works of Tolkien themselves, I consider this book a must have for a higher level of enjoyment for the game.

    Plus you can get it for less than $15 most places. A bargain compared to, let’s say, a new goat and a cloak!! *grin*

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  4. Merric

    15. Nov, 2009

    Nooo, not another book! Just kidding. No, I’ve looked through this book too and it’s a great resource just like Goldenstar and Jimwise said. Tolkien made such a rich world that sometimes it becomes confusing.

    Hambone: Glad that we were able to help out and suggest something!

    Elahndria: Congrats on the set and have fun reading them!

    Jimwise: LOL, yes it’s much cheaper than a goat and a cloak, plus it’s not smelly like goats either!

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