94 pages • 3 hours read
The Silmarillion
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Book Brief
480
Novel • Fiction
Arda • Mythic Past
1977
Houghton Mifflin Harcourt
Adult
15+ years
1150L
Super Short Summary
The Silmarillion by J.R.R. Tolkien is a mythopoeic collection detailing the creation and history of the universe of Eä, including the lands of Valinor, Beleriand, Númenor, and Middle-earth. Eru creates the universe and the Ainur, leading to the Valar and Maiar shaping the world. Elves and Men arise, and the Valar battle Melkor (Morgoth) for control. The story covers the creation of the Silmarils, the wars over them, and the eventual defeat of Melkor.
Fantastical
Mysterious
Melancholic
Adventurous
Dark
Reviews & Readership
325,720 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
J. R. R. Tolkien's The Silmarillion is acclaimed for its rich lore and majestic creation of Middle-earth, offering deep insights into the history and mythology preceding The Lord of the Rings. However, its dense, complex narrative structure and archaic prose may alienate casual readers. Fans of Tolkien's universe will appreciate its depth and scope, while others might find it challenging.
Who Should Read The Silmarillion?
A reader who enjoys The Silmarillion by J. R. R. Tolkien would likely be someone who appreciates intricate world-building, epic mythologies, and richly detailed histories. Fans of The Lord of the Rings trilogy and readers of classic high fantasy works like C. S. Lewis's The Chronicles of Narnia or George R. R. Martin's A Song of Ice and Fire series would find this book appealing.
325,720 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Fëanor
Fëanor
A pivotal Elven figure known for creating the Silmarils and compelling his sons to swear an oath, driving significant conflict in the story through his actions and legacy.
Túrin
Túrin
A tragic human hero whose story unfolds over the length of his life, marked by personal suffering and the unintended consequences of his choices, set against the backdrop of ongoing larger conflicts.
480
Novel • Fiction
Arda • Mythic Past
1977
Houghton Mifflin Harcourt
Adult
15+ years
1150L
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