61 pages • 2 hours read
The Children of Húrin
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Book Brief
317
Novel • Fiction
Beleriand • First Age
2007
YA
14-18 years
Super Short Summary
The Children of Húrin by J. R. R. Tolkien follows Túrin Turambar and Niënor Níniel, the children of Húrin Thalion, as they struggle to escape a curse placed upon their family by the Dark Lord Morgoth. The story explores themes of fate versus free will, the frail nature of humanity, and the inescapability of the past. The book contains depictions of violence, unintended incest, and death by suicide during a period of grief.
Dark
Melancholic
Mysterious
Contemplative
Reviews & Readership
91,765 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
The Children of Húrin by J. R. R. Tolkien is lauded for its rich world-building and compelling prose, capturing Tolkien's signature depth. Critics appreciate its darker, tragic themes and intricate narrative, though some find it less accessible than The Lord of the Rings. Overall, it stands as a masterful yet somber addition to Tolkien’s legendarium.
Who Should Read The Children of Húrin?
Readers who relish epic fantasy sagas with rich lore, akin to The Lord of the Rings by J. R. R. Tolkien or A Song of Ice and Fire by George R. R. Martin, will find The Children of Húrin captivating. Ideal for those who appreciate intricate world-building and tragic heroism within a mythic, historical context.
91,765 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Niënor Níniel
Niënor Níniel
Túrin's younger sister, who is brought up in the Elven city of Doriath and accompanies her mother on a journey seeking him.
Morgoth
Morgoth
The primary antagonist, formerly a powerful god known as Melkor, who becomes a malevolent force intent on sowing destruction and engineering the downfall of Húrin’s family.
Glaurung
Glaurung
A fearsome Dragon serving Morgoth, known as the Father of Dragons, who plays a crucial role in the events that unfold around the characters’ encounters with him.
317
Novel • Fiction
Beleriand • First Age
2007
YA
14-18 years
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