The Lord of the Rings Deluxe Illustrated by the Author: Special Edition (Tolkien Illustrated Editions)

Masterpiece of a book and packaged in a beautiful cover with awesome illustrations

Beautiful....handsomely-bound large book - gift for 51 years with my partner. He introduced me to Tolkien.

Gorgeous book, bought as a gift and was shipped quickly.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐"The Lord of the Rings Special Edition" book is an absolute treasure for fans of J.R.R. Tolkien's epic fantasy masterpiece. This special edition goes above and beyond to provide readers with an immersive and captivating experience, both in terms of the book's quality and the extras included.First and foremost, the physical quality of this edition is outstanding. The book features a sturdy hardcover that exudes elegance and durability. The pages are of exceptional quality, ensuring that this edition will stand the test of time and countless readings. The typography and layout are meticulously crafted, enhancing the reading experience and capturing the essence of Tolkien's world.But what truly sets this special edition apart are the extras it offers. The additional content provides readers with a deeper understanding and appreciation of the rich tapestry of Middle-earth. Including maps, sketches, and illustrations throughout the book adds a visual element that brings Tolkien's intricate world to life. It's a true delight to follow the characters' journeys while referring to these visual aids, further immersing oneself in the vastness of Middle-earth.The attention to detail in this special edition is commendable. From the embossed cover to the meticulously designed endpapers, every aspect of the book's presentation is crafted with care. It feels like holding a precious artifact that deserves a place of honor on any bookshelf.In conclusion, "The Lord of the Rings Special Edition" book is an absolute must-have for fans of Tolkien's timeless tale. The exceptional quality of the physical book, coupled with the insightful extras and additional content, create an enchanting reading experience that transports us to the wondrous realm of Middle-earth. Whether you are a lifelong fan or new to the series, this special edition is a treasure worth adding to your collection. It showcases the enduring power and magic of Tolkien's storytelling, ensuring that the journey through Middle-earth will continue to captivate readers for generations to come.

Only one word can properly describe a perfect encapsulation of Tolkien's finest works, Awesome. My mother absolutely loves it and has been humming the theme the past few days as well as places about a grand worth of Swords in her cart.

You will not be disappointed.

Book came in mint condition brand new never used and in original box too!

While the MSRP is incredibly steep, this edition has regular been on sale for roughly half price (bringing it in-line with other premium editions such as Easton Press), making it a very solid buy.The paper quality is excellent, the 2-color print is crisp and clear, and the illustrations are high quality transfers of Tolkien's own sketches, drawings, and paintings. Typically, I am averse to single-volume editions of LOTR from a practical standpoint, but this book is built to handle its size and is meant to be read. The spine is not overly tight, as many other recent HC books, and the binding is very nice. The book lays open to whatever page you turn it to without supplying additional pressure. I do wish it had been fully leather instead of quarter-bound, but the cloth is also nice, along with the cover boards. The slipcase is incredibly thick-walled and sturdy. The gilt edges are also well-done; certainly they are not just for show.My only complaint is with the presentation of some of the extras. It would have been nice to have a dedicated place or compartment in the slipcase or book for the leaves, maps, and King's Letter.All in all, however, it is a testament to the fact that high-quality manufacture CAN still take place. I will be getting the matching Silmarillion soon, and I hope HC decides to make an edition of The Hobbit along the same lines.