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4.01 AVERAGE
4.01 AVERAGE
adventurous
informative
inspiring
fast-paced
Another ticked off of my list of unread or incomplete works by Tolkien. I continuous thought, “why is it called this though?” So I googled and… “The "Perilous Realm" refers to faërie, a broad term for the fantastical dimension visited by each tale in a different way.” So that makes sense now!
This is a nice collection of what can be considered Tolkien’s more classic fairytales and I love the cover they chose. Math tells me this is a 4.6/5*.
Roverandom: 5/5*
Working my way through Tales From the Perilous Realm for the first time, but I’ve already read a couple. This was a re-read.
This was originally written for Tolkien’s son, Michael, when he lost his toy dog. With that being said it’s incredibly silly, and lighthearted. Rover the dog bites a wizard on the seat of his pants and is turned to a toy dog. This is the story of his journey through that, and his journey home.
My favorite thing about this little tale is that you can still see the grand scope in which Tolkien writes. His mine clearly always saw the big picture, and what could be, rather than just weaving a little something-something…even for his 4 year old son.
Personally a 5/5* for me. I liked it even more the second time.
Farmer Giles of Ham: 5/5*
This review is based off of the Harper Collins Pocket Hardcovers sold in a set as the “Tolkien Treasury.” This book includes the published version of the story, the first manuscript version, and the short outline for the sequel. I’m including that info because I don’t know if other versions include the same.
To me this was a great little tale, falling just short of me loving it. I think this is a cute, silly story that could so easily fall into the realm of other fairytale stories/the same popularity, if only it was more readily available. Although, it is again one of those older children’s stories where while I’m reading I’m like, “this was told to kids?!” So with that being said this could easily have been dulled down or “Disney-fied” or made even more adult in a longer version/adaptation.
I feel like pretty much from top to bottom this story is about greed. While Giles is considered to be good to his people, and well liked, he is also still tempted by the gold of the dragon. Albeit, not as grossly as the king and his court.
Of course we also get the dual pleasure of something light and enjoyable as with most of Tolkien’s earlier works (ie. Roverandom or even the full length The Hobbit), mixed with the lush imagination of the king of fantasy Himself.
Personally a 5/5* for me, as I liked it even more the second time around.
The Adventures of Tom Bombadil: 4/5*
This is the third in Tales from the Perilous Realm, but this one was a first time read for me. I admit that the ‘other verses’ kind of went over my head or I misunderstand, because about halfway through I was like “what in the world does this have to do with Tom Bombadil?” So I actually listened to this twice today.
This is a collection of poems by Tolkien. It includes two about Bombadil, who readers will know from Frodo meeting him in The Fellowship of the Ring. As one of the strangest characters I personally think he ever created, it still does not surprise me that Peter Jackson skipped that part entirely.
The collection includes three that are actually featured in The Lord of the Rings as well, and the book had a very cool ‘in-universe’ (esque) preface. It speaks of how some of the stories are written by Bilbo or Sam, and how one featured is actually a dream that Frodo had, although probably not actually written by him.
During my first listen through, as I stated above, I was looking for the Tom Bombadil context and was super confused. On the second, I enjoyed it and appreciated it for what it was. Poetry is not really my thing, but some of these are considered to be very good works by Tolkien, so I’m glad to have experienced them.
The 16 featured poems are:
The Adventures of Tom Bombadil
Bombadil Goes Boating
Errantry
Princess Mee
The Man in the Moon Stayed Up too Late
The Man in the Moon Came Down too Soon
The Stone Troll
Perry-the-Winkle
The Mewlips
Oliphaunt
Fastitocalon
Cat
Shadow-Bride
The Hoard
The Sea-Bell (OR ‘Frodos Dreme’)
The Last Ship
Enjoyable, well down works written throughout his life. Personally a 4/5* for the king.
Smith of Wootton Major: 4/5*
This is the fourth tale in Tales from the Perilous Realm, and this is the only other story I had not read prior. I have to say I’m not sure how I feel about it, but like the others, I’m sure I’d like it more a second time.
This was one of Tolkien’s tales trying to explain the meaning of faery, or at least whatever that meant to him. It was apparently supposed to be part of a preface he was writing for George MacDonald’s ‘The Golden Key’, but became its own thing. (I’m no expert, I looked it up)
Other than his usual and original use of the term Faery, this is not linked to his middle-earth legendarium, and in my opinion, has more of the lighthearted silliness of the other novellas in it. A great cook and his apprentice (referred to as ‘prentice) make a great cake filled with 24 trinkets and coins for the children. However, this year they include a 25th item, a star from faery. The smith’s son swallows it, later spitting it out and affixing it to his forehead. This serves almost like a blessing from the faeries, and he is blessed with skills and personality.
This one was not really my favorite, I was a bit confused at points, which isn’t unusual for Tolkien, but it was short, so I thought it’d be easy going. Maybe it’d be an easier read than a listen. Personally a 4/5* for me.
Leaf by Niggle: 5/5*
This is the fifth, and final tale in Tales from the Perilous Realm, and another reread for me. I once again feel like I grasped this more, and enjoyed it more, the second time.
This was a nice, easy read to get through, as it is a short story but published as it’s own release. With that being said there is certainly a deep metaphor here to life, unexpected departure, suffering and purgatory, and the great beyond. Not much of a believer myself—and don’t misunderstand, Tolkien is not giving a overhanded Christian/religious tale here—but I do really enjoy the way Tolkien conveys all that through the little things, in the littlest story. Niggle wants to finish his painted canvas before his big journey, but he can’t seem to get anything done for all the needless interruptions. Kind of a silly, fun way to describe life itself. And there is of course other views on what is meant here as well...this is just the most direct take on it I feel.
I personally feel this a lot lately, so this was a timely reread. We constantly have our time planned or micromanaged, even if it’s by ourselves, and it’s up to us to make the most of it. Being kind throughout the hiccups and ‘interruptions’ is the key.
A quick and wonderful reread, personally a 5/5*.
This is a nice collection of what can be considered Tolkien’s more classic fairytales and I love the cover they chose. Math tells me this is a 4.6/5*.
Roverandom: 5/5*
Working my way through Tales From the Perilous Realm for the first time, but I’ve already read a couple. This was a re-read.
This was originally written for Tolkien’s son, Michael, when he lost his toy dog. With that being said it’s incredibly silly, and lighthearted. Rover the dog bites a wizard on the seat of his pants and is turned to a toy dog. This is the story of his journey through that, and his journey home.
My favorite thing about this little tale is that you can still see the grand scope in which Tolkien writes. His mine clearly always saw the big picture, and what could be, rather than just weaving a little something-something…even for his 4 year old son.
Personally a 5/5* for me. I liked it even more the second time.
Farmer Giles of Ham: 5/5*
This review is based off of the Harper Collins Pocket Hardcovers sold in a set as the “Tolkien Treasury.” This book includes the published version of the story, the first manuscript version, and the short outline for the sequel. I’m including that info because I don’t know if other versions include the same.
To me this was a great little tale, falling just short of me loving it. I think this is a cute, silly story that could so easily fall into the realm of other fairytale stories/the same popularity, if only it was more readily available. Although, it is again one of those older children’s stories where while I’m reading I’m like, “this was told to kids?!” So with that being said this could easily have been dulled down or “Disney-fied” or made even more adult in a longer version/adaptation.
I feel like pretty much from top to bottom this story is about greed. While Giles is considered to be good to his people, and well liked, he is also still tempted by the gold of the dragon. Albeit, not as grossly as the king and his court.
Of course we also get the dual pleasure of something light and enjoyable as with most of Tolkien’s earlier works (ie. Roverandom or even the full length The Hobbit), mixed with the lush imagination of the king of fantasy Himself.
Personally a 5/5* for me, as I liked it even more the second time around.
The Adventures of Tom Bombadil: 4/5*
This is the third in Tales from the Perilous Realm, but this one was a first time read for me. I admit that the ‘other verses’ kind of went over my head or I misunderstand, because about halfway through I was like “what in the world does this have to do with Tom Bombadil?” So I actually listened to this twice today.
This is a collection of poems by Tolkien. It includes two about Bombadil, who readers will know from Frodo meeting him in The Fellowship of the Ring. As one of the strangest characters I personally think he ever created, it still does not surprise me that Peter Jackson skipped that part entirely.
The collection includes three that are actually featured in The Lord of the Rings as well, and the book had a very cool ‘in-universe’ (esque) preface. It speaks of how some of the stories are written by Bilbo or Sam, and how one featured is actually a dream that Frodo had, although probably not actually written by him.
During my first listen through, as I stated above, I was looking for the Tom Bombadil context and was super confused. On the second, I enjoyed it and appreciated it for what it was. Poetry is not really my thing, but some of these are considered to be very good works by Tolkien, so I’m glad to have experienced them.
The 16 featured poems are:
The Adventures of Tom Bombadil
Bombadil Goes Boating
Errantry
Princess Mee
The Man in the Moon Stayed Up too Late
The Man in the Moon Came Down too Soon
The Stone Troll
Perry-the-Winkle
The Mewlips
Oliphaunt
Fastitocalon
Cat
Shadow-Bride
The Hoard
The Sea-Bell (OR ‘Frodos Dreme’)
The Last Ship
Enjoyable, well down works written throughout his life. Personally a 4/5* for the king.
Smith of Wootton Major: 4/5*
This is the fourth tale in Tales from the Perilous Realm, and this is the only other story I had not read prior. I have to say I’m not sure how I feel about it, but like the others, I’m sure I’d like it more a second time.
This was one of Tolkien’s tales trying to explain the meaning of faery, or at least whatever that meant to him. It was apparently supposed to be part of a preface he was writing for George MacDonald’s ‘The Golden Key’, but became its own thing. (I’m no expert, I looked it up)
Other than his usual and original use of the term Faery, this is not linked to his middle-earth legendarium, and in my opinion, has more of the lighthearted silliness of the other novellas in it. A great cook and his apprentice (referred to as ‘prentice) make a great cake filled with 24 trinkets and coins for the children. However, this year they include a 25th item, a star from faery. The smith’s son swallows it, later spitting it out and affixing it to his forehead. This serves almost like a blessing from the faeries, and he is blessed with skills and personality.
This one was not really my favorite, I was a bit confused at points, which isn’t unusual for Tolkien, but it was short, so I thought it’d be easy going. Maybe it’d be an easier read than a listen. Personally a 4/5* for me.
Leaf by Niggle: 5/5*
This is the fifth, and final tale in Tales from the Perilous Realm, and another reread for me. I once again feel like I grasped this more, and enjoyed it more, the second time.
This was a nice, easy read to get through, as it is a short story but published as it’s own release. With that being said there is certainly a deep metaphor here to life, unexpected departure, suffering and purgatory, and the great beyond. Not much of a believer myself—and don’t misunderstand, Tolkien is not giving a overhanded Christian/religious tale here—but I do really enjoy the way Tolkien conveys all that through the little things, in the littlest story. Niggle wants to finish his painted canvas before his big journey, but he can’t seem to get anything done for all the needless interruptions. Kind of a silly, fun way to describe life itself. And there is of course other views on what is meant here as well...this is just the most direct take on it I feel.
I personally feel this a lot lately, so this was a timely reread. We constantly have our time planned or micromanaged, even if it’s by ourselves, and it’s up to us to make the most of it. Being kind throughout the hiccups and ‘interruptions’ is the key.
A quick and wonderful reread, personally a 5/5*.
adventurous
funny
lighthearted
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Plot
Strong character development:
N/A
Loveable characters:
N/A
Diverse cast of characters:
N/A
Flaws of characters a main focus:
N/A
After finishing the Six of Crows duology, I wanted to read something light and short so Tales from the Perilous Realm seemed like the perfect fit. And it totally didn't disappoint!
It's just such a charming little book and I really enjoyed reading it for the most part. The only part that didn't click for me were some of the poems from The Adventures of Tom Bombadil but those were few and they were mostly in the beginning/middle.
If you want to explore Tolkien's works but are hesitant to give The Lord of the Rings trilogy a try, I suggest starting with this as it is much shorter and less intimidating. Or alternatively, you could try reading The Hobbit as it is also not lengthy.
[Note: The edition that I read didn't include Roverandom.]
It's just such a charming little book and I really enjoyed reading it for the most part. The only part that didn't click for me were some of the poems from The Adventures of Tom Bombadil but those were few and they were mostly in the beginning/middle.
If you want to explore Tolkien's works but are hesitant to give The Lord of the Rings trilogy a try, I suggest starting with this as it is much shorter and less intimidating. Or alternatively, you could try reading The Hobbit as it is also not lengthy.
[Note: The edition that I read didn't include Roverandom.]
adventurous
funny
hopeful
lighthearted
mysterious
relaxing
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
No
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Complicated
Flaws of characters a main focus:
No
It's what Tolkien has done to write a selection of short stories that he considers fairy-stories. Feels like they are ment for children but very much enjoyed reading it
adventurous
funny
hopeful
lighthearted
mysterious
relaxing
slow-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Complicated
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Complicated
These were a good group of short stories that were clearly intended for a younger reader but they were enjoyable nevertheless. I loved the dragon story and found it interesting how people tried negotiation first before what happened next. I loved the poem of Tom and the other stories too.
This was a first short story collection that I have ever read and it was great that it was from one of my favorite authors.
The stories in this collection were great I had a very fun and really enjoyable. There were I think only 2 that I did not enjoy as much as the others but I was glad that I read them.
Out of the 5 stories that were in this book I really enjoyed Roverandom and the adventures of Tom Bombadil the most but overall I really had a great time reading them and they all seemed really quick to get through. I loved the way that all the stories did not seem to be missing anything to make them feel like they were missing something in them. It was very very good.
I really like Tolkiens writing and his storytelling is very good and very enjoyable.
The stories in this collection were great I had a very fun and really enjoyable. There were I think only 2 that I did not enjoy as much as the others but I was glad that I read them.
Out of the 5 stories that were in this book I really enjoyed Roverandom and the adventures of Tom Bombadil the most but overall I really had a great time reading them and they all seemed really quick to get through. I loved the way that all the stories did not seem to be missing anything to make them feel like they were missing something in them. It was very very good.
I really like Tolkiens writing and his storytelling is very good and very enjoyable.
adventurous
funny
lighthearted
slow-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Complicated
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
Out of this short story collection written by J.R.R. Tolkien, my favorite was Farmer Giles of Ham Tolkien is such a great storyteller that I am sad I haven't read anything of his before now. I am looking forward to reading his other works that some of these stories touch briefly on. My other favorite in the collection was The Adventures of Tom Bombadil. The adventures were told in poetry.
The illustrations that were created by Alan Lee were fabulous. It added more magic.
The illustrations that were created by Alan Lee were fabulous. It added more magic.
adventurous
lighthearted
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
No
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
No
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
As a devoted fan of Tolkien, this book added to my obsession. I especially enjoyed a few of the poems ("The Adventures of Tom Bombadil", "Errantry", "Princess Mee", "The Mewlips", "Cat", "Shadow-Bride", "the Last Ship"), Leaf by Niggle, and Smith of Wootton Major. You'll find the traditional Tolkien feel here as well as a more playful side of his work.
adventurous
lighthearted
mysterious
Plot or Character Driven:
Plot
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes