The Fellowship of the Ring

by J.R.R. Tolkien
The Fellowship of the Ring cover
Good Books rating 4.71
Fantasy
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Format • £28.50–£33.25
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  • ID: 66
  • Added: 2025-08-30
  • Updated: 2025-10-05
  • ISBN: 9780345339706
  • Publisher: Del Rey
  • Published: 1988-01-01
  • Formats: 36
  • Reviews: 4

The Fellowship of the Ring is the first installment in J.R.R. Tolkien's epic fantasy trilogy, The Lord of the Rings. This novel introduces readers to the richly detailed world of Middle-earth, filled with diverse cultures, ancient histories, and mythical creatures. The story follows Frodo Baggins, a humble Hobbit, as he embarks on a dangerous journey to destroy the One Ring, a powerful artifact that could bring about the downfall of all that is good. Alongside him are a fellowship of brave companions, each with their own unique skills and backgrounds, united in their quest to defeat the dark lord Sauron. /n/n Nominated as one of America’s best-loved novels by PBS’s The Great American Read, The Fellowship of the Ring is a timeless classic that has captivated generations of readers with its intricate world-building, unforgettable characters, and thrilling adventure. The novel explores themes of friendship, courage, and the struggle between good and evil, making it a must-read for fantasy enthusiasts and literature lovers alike.

Reviews
The Fantasy Review · 2025-08-30
fantastic 4.60

The book is regarded as a fantastic introduction to the trilogy, starting in the Shire and effectively setting up the epic journey that follows.

This review appreciates The Fellowship of the Ring as an excellent entry point into the Lord of the Rings trilogy, highlighting how it begins with familiar, relatable characters in the Shire and gradually unfolds into a grand adventure. The reviewer notes the compelling way the story draws readers into the world and characters, setting up emotional investment and excitement for the journey ahead. The review conveys enthusiasm for the book’s narrative pace and character development, suggesting it is highly accessible for those new to Tolkien's work while also satisfying long-time fans. The tone is positive and encouraging, recommending the book as a strong start to one of fantasy literature's most beloved sagas.

Quick quotes

    The Fellowship of the Ring is a fantastic introduction to The Lord of the Rings.

    We begin the story in the Shire with Frodo and Bilbo Baggins.

    I...

SpragueDeCampFan.wordpress.com · L. Sprague de Camp · 2025-08-30
marvelous 4.50

The novel is celebrated for its adventurous spirit, rich humor, and vibrant action, showing de Camp's regained creative flair after WWII and exploring themes like fate versus free will.

This review praises the novel as a marvelous story full of action, color, and humor, reflecting a strong recovery of L. Sprague de Camp's writing prowess following WWII. The reviewer draws parallels between the fantasy world in the book and historical settings, noting the vivid, sometimes spooky creatures and the overall adventurous tone. A significant theme discussed is the tension between fate and free will, with the gods' attempts to destroy the protagonist ironically backfiring, which adds a layer of wry humor and philosophical reflection. The review also emphasizes the timeless appeal of the story, recommending it highly and noting the quality of specific editions and illustrations. It suggests the novel as a must-read for fans of fantasy, highlighting de Camp's unique voice and the compelling nature of his storytelling, which combines humor with classic fantasy elements.

Quick quotes

    All in all this is a marvelous story!

    One of the themes of this novel is fate versus free will.

    This novel shows that he had by 1951 totally recovered his magic!

A Book and a Tea Cup · 2025-08-30
excellent 4.75

The book is praised as nearly perfect in storytelling, with special emphasis on the depth and loyalty of hobbit characters, especially Sam, whose simple courage stands out.

This review highlights the exceptional storytelling quality of The Fellowship of the Ring, emphasizing that the narrative is almost flawless. The reviewer particularly admires the hobbit characters such as Meriadoc Brandybuck and Peregrin Took, noting their loyalty and complexity beyond the comic relief often portrayed in adaptations. Samwise Gamgee is singled out for his unwavering loyalty and courage, qualities that make him a hero comparable to the more traditionally heroic characters like Aragorn and Boromir. The depiction of Sam's character, both in the book and through Sean Astin's film portrayal, is seen as a compelling embodiment of simple but profound heroism. The reviewer appreciates the emotional intensity and piercing focus on Frodo's journey, highlighting the strong bonds of friendship and trust among the hobbits. The narrative's ability to convey deep loyalty and fear alongside bravery is underlined, making the story resonate powerfully with readers. This perspective invites readers to see the hobbits not just as side characters but as central to the emotional core and moral strength of the story.

Quick quotes

    You can trust us to stick to you through thick and thin – to the bitter end.

    Sam is everything that is right in the world.

    He made a promise and sticks to it, and for that his courage can be matched with that of Aragorn or Boromir.

LitHub · W. H. Auden · 2023-07-28
brilliant 5.00

The reviewer found immense joy in reading the book, considering it one of the most enjoyable fiction they've read in years. They praise the story's depth and the richness of the world.

W. H. Auden was deeply moved by the book, stating that it brought them more joy than any other fiction they had read in the past five years. They were particularly impressed by the depth of the story and the richness of the world Tolkien created. Auden's review highlights the book's ability to captivate and engage readers, making it a standout piece of literature.

Quick quotes

    No fiction I have read in the last five years has given me more joy than The Fellowship of the Ring.

    The depth of the story and the richness of the world are truly remarkable.

    This book is a masterpiece of storytelling.

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