I wish they switched the colours of the paper edges of the standard editions from the Hobbit and the Silmarillion. Green with green and blue with blue would look alot nicer than green with blue and blue with green.
I personally love the coloured pages with the writing on the side. I love the red pages of the lord of the rings edition and the lime green of the simarillion really stands out
Yes, I like it too. I don't get why some don't seem to like it at all. It strikes me as a lot more meaningful than mere "gilt" edges. And have you seen those people who paint their book edges with hidden images that only reveal themselves when the pages are flexed? Absolutely amazing. Seems like a great - though quite difficult to do - marketing opportunity for the Tolkien Estate.
@@philsilva13 - I see no pictures of the edges on the US Amazon site. The Tolkienguide site lists two different ISBNs, one for the UK version (978-0008627782) and one for the US version (978-0063347533). I'd really think that they both feature the printed edges, but I don't know for sure. It would be pretty strange if they were not identical in that respect.
If you cannot afford to get all or most of the different editions, you have to think carefully about what editon you want. I love your reviews and the respect you have for the books. This edition is the one I think I will be getting, as I like the return to the source. There is something about the authors illustrations that to me gives a better feel for the world Tolkien created, and although I like high fantasy art, these illustrations feel more authentic. Great review thank you.
I'd love to see a more in depth review of both of these books! I'd love to see the different illustrations and get your take on the overall differences that might exist due to switching printer/publishers for the newest deluxe. Thanks for coming out with this! I've been starving for information on these!
I was so happy to find out through your video they were making a slipcase version of the Hobbit! I preordered one immediately to complete the slipcase set with the previous two. Personally, I'm okay with the way they've included the bonus maps and material. What I do is just frame the maps and put them up around the house.
I don't think there is enough illustrated material for more books like these, but it would be great to have reproductions of some of his manuscripts, which are works of art in themselves, as we are only able to see some in the frontispieces of THOME.
Totally agree. Even with these latest two from Sil and TH, some content feels more as a way to fill up the pages. Some sketches can barely be called “illustrations” in themselves. Still, they’re a nice addition and rarely seen elsewhere 🙂
I would love to have the slip case version but just cannot get past having the additional 'booklet' sized to fit with the book itself in the slip case, so if you leave to booklet out the main book rattles around in the slip........It just annoys me! Thanks for your great videos and keep going :)
I come from under boot, and under boot and over no hills my paths led. And amid the seas, I am he whose accent sounds unheard 🍃 … sorry, couldn’t resist riddling 😅
I kind of like the removable maps. Can frame them and put on wall. The slipcase being fit for the book AND the companion pamplet seems a bad idea though. I wonder if it would have a noticeable gap if the pamplet were removed for proper bookshelf display.
Books should be works of art, especially when the text is enthralling, as it is in the works of Tolkien. These books are really beautiful! Thanks for the very helpful reviews.
For what it's worth, these ones ALSO exist as eBooks (at least, in the commonwealth....unsure if William Morrow offers them in the US). While this is all about BOOKS, I still wanted to mention their existence :)
I would go for the 2004/2006 editions (those which came in the JRR Tolkien collection box set - but they’re now usually sold as separate books). There might be some corrections that have been made to the texts since that time, but I find them quite remarkable 🙂
Great to see you getting the kind of recognition in the publishing world that gets you early sneak-peak deliveries James. Well deserved. As with the others - the deluxe looks fantastic but the text along the side of the standard edition's text block doesnt float my boat - regardless, both are very pretty books.
Much appreciated! Though my receiving these copies before publication date is surely an oversight. I highly doubt the publishers know of this channel’s existence 😂
@@brewingbooks oh I see! I'd thought they'd sent you review copies!... which would certainly be worthwhile for them in my opinion. Regardless, always nice to receive something before you expect it 👍🏻
I found the standard editions of these books to be the best way to own a definitive collection without spending more than $100 on each. I'd recommend those the most to people who may not want to resort to pocket editions or paperbacks.
Can't wait for the standard edition. I really like the design (including the coloured paper edge). Will this be the last book or will there be more next year?
Very disappointed that the deluxe has the small booklet next to it in the case. Unfortunately now it looks out of place next to the rest of the set. Would have loved it to be included as extra pages of the main book. Love your reviews 👍
Hello! The standard edition I saw in another video where they say it’s not sewn but you say it is, which is it to clarify? Second question, which would you recommend to purchase? Is standard edition more preferred for you than delux because of the light green booklet that comes with the delux?
Recently my LOTR illustrated slipcased edition started to have the gold foil come off (the writing and lines) so be carefull indeed, quality seems to be an issue. (never read the book, its literally stored in a bookshelf)
Nice video. I would get their standard editions if it weren't for the decorated edges. Just not my thing. I have the deluxe preordered from Blackwells. Glad to hear the dragon lecture is included!
So I guess I'm the only one who likes the coloured pages on the illustrated editions? I already have lotr and the Silmarillion illustrated editions and this one looks nice too.
Great video! Would you recommend this edition over the other illustrated versions for a young reader who has never read The Hobbit before and if not which would you recommend?
Hey thanks for your question! For younger readers I’d strongly recommend Jemima Catlin’s illustrated edition of The Hobbit (preferably hardback). I don’t own this particular edition, though I’ve been meaning to, but I’ve had the opportunity to sift through it and it’s a truly wonderful book (besides the story of course 😄)
Is there anywhere online that catalogues which pieces of art are included in which versions of The Hobbit? I got the facsimile gift pack version of The Hobbit (in lenticular box) and I'd be interested to know which art this one has over my version, and whether I can get the art any other way (is it online or in the Art of The Hobbit book?).
I suspect that "The Art of The Hobbit" includes the same pictures as in "Illustrated by the Author", shown here. Maybe some differently coloured/sized versions. This is speculation though as I don't own them myself. Seems like you got the original release edition, which has far fewer illustrations by Tolkien himself, and only in black and white. Then of course there are also the ones by Alan Lee, as well as some others which don't interest me personally.
Have you ever seen the Houghton Mifflin version of the Hobbit? That is the edition I read as a kid. I know it has the authors illustrations, but I am curious how it compares to this edition! I am trying to find out if it has all the same illustrations. I want to buy it again but I don't want to miss anything if these versions have more.
I just managed to pick up a 70th Anniversary edition of The Hobbit to go with my Tolkien Illustrated editions of LOTR and the Silmarillion (standard editions). This new edition of The Hobbit obviously technically matches my other two books better, but I am wondering if it is that much of an upgrade (it is a clear upgrade, but not sure how much the extra stuff matters) over the 70th Anniversary edition which also has Tolkien illustrations (though I do understand not as many) and has Tolkiens original cover design book jacket. I would love for you to compare this new edition to other editions and if you had to pick one, which would you pick? To me, the LOTR's and Silmarillion in this line are my definitive single copies, and I am trying to decide if I should just keep the 70th to go with them or get this new one.
Ultimately the bonus features are just there to sell the book. Besides those, there’s not much difference between editions. It’s mostly an aesthetic choice of which you prefer best to collect.
I usually don't mind the toned text block, but it would seem that any understanding of the aesthetics of colour matching has gone out the window. The two colours that do not go well together (or must be chosen very carefully) are green and blue. The standard edition would have looked better with a gold, or mustard, or even tan text block.
Great video!! Hopefully I get my copy soon! Completely off topic: I noticed some of your deluxe editions on your shelf still haven't been opened, is there a particular reason for that? I have also seen other channels do it too and I am contemplating whether or not I should leave my deluxe editions in it's original wrappings.
Hi James, I am just getting into your channel, you have helped me a lot with some purchases so far. I am just wondering, do the deluxe and standard editions of this line (Hobbit, LOTR, Silmarillion) use the same paper, and therefore, only the exterior is different? I have the standard LOTR version, but I don't love the paper in that edition...
Yes, the deluxes of LotR and TS use the same paper as the trade editions. This is particularly noticeable on the LotR as the paper used in that edition is pretty poor (identical page block to trade, except the gilding to the edges).
Thanks, James! I currently have the Houghton and Mifflin 50th anniversary copy of LOTR, it has lovely paper, but I am looking for another deluxe single-volume copy. Maybe I will have to keep looking!@@brewingbooks
Thanks for yet another great review and comparison ! Is there any chance you could share the ISBN numbers of these (normal edition, not the deluxe) as im really confused with the whole HC & WM publishers information, i would like it to be HC to match it with all my other HC editions. Your edition should either be 'ISBN 9780008627782' or 'ISBN 9780063347533', is that correct ? If so, which one is it ? Thank you in advance !
Do you know where the deluxe edition was printed at? I heard they are using a different printing company because of all the quality issues with the LotR deluxe.
@@brewingbooks strange it was supposed to be the OTHER way around! I’m basing that on what was said on TCG, as well as that someone got a standard edition printed by Rot. Either way, hope yours are in great shape 😀
@@brewingbooks I collect them as you do but I have to read the large prints. They seem to be pretty rare and finding an intact complete LOTR set is almost impossible
I didn’t really understand what you didn’t like about these editions. Was it mainly the lack of pockets for the map and extra cards? I also notice some marring and dings on the covers which you clearly also noticed, and I surely wouldn’t want those to afflict my copies. Still deciding if I’ll buy either of these or not.
No worries! Those white markings were merely some dust from the slipcase circle cutout when I pulled out the book. As for a dent here and there, that is expected with handling, but they’re mostly superficial. As for what I’d like to see with these editions is some care in the way the fold-out maps and “bonus features” are included in the book. Rather than simply folding them and putting them at the front or back of the book, considering at least a deluxe edition, it should have some sort of folder at the back in which to place this additional material neatly inside. It was done for some previous publications.
@@brewingbooks Ok, got it. While such pockets can be nice, they are still prone to being ripped by accident when attempting to remove and reinsert whatever additions they are meant to hold! Ideally, pockets should be made from something more forgiving than mere thick paper. Something like those rip-proof Kevlar mailing envelopes would be appropriate. 🙂 And though it's easy enough to ensure that books are packaged in a way that makes them almost immune to shipping damage, since that takes a few more minutes to do, and adds slightly to the expense, there is never enough incentive to do it since probably less than 5% of people even care enough to complain about it. I remember the early days when Amazon was just a book store and *ALL* the books they shipped were first shrink-wrapped in a size-order stack to an oversized piece of cardboard base that was custom fit to the box. This way all the books were held far from the sides of the box and shielded from damage even without any additional padding material. But those days are long gone.
What I find weird, is that the extra stuff you only get with the deluxe but not the standard is...just inside the slipcase itself. Like they could've done an ellaborate box (remember those gift sets of Hobbit and Silm from '99?) or have an envelope or something. The fact it's just loose in the slipcase like that is weird. What I personally suggest, if anyone has the red LotR deluxe in this style, is keep ALL the extras in the box that one came in (the decorated map of Middle-earth). It's what I'd personally do. Or if you have the standard editions, keep the maps from the 3 standard editions inside the blue Moria gate box that the illustrated LotR may have came in.
@@brewingbooks Wow, HC had previously stated (via TCG) that the *deluxe* would be printed by Graphicon. That's news that they still went with Rotolito for it. Are you sure you have gotten that the right way round?
Definitely getting the deluxe edition to go with silmarillion and Lord of the rings editions. I won't get anymore future editions like this now. I just wanted the top trilogy in these editions
@@insurrbution I really hope thsts true. I wish Harper collins would slow down in the release of Tolkien books. When we have so many different editions.
The Hobbit deluxe edition look great! I wonder what book they’ll do next. The Great Tales of Middle Earth (Hurin, Beren & Luthien, Gondolin) seems logical but I’m not sure if Tolkien made illustrations for those books since the main selling point of these editions are “illustrated by the author.”
@@brewingbooks While stretching it thin, a possibility COULD be Unfinished Tales, as that would be a 'greatest hits' of LotR, Hobbit and Silm art, where appropriate to that section of the book. HOWEVER, the issue in that would lie in not having enough imagery to decorate Part 2: The Second Age with.
I really am not a fan of the chapbook being seperate, and in such a distinct colour as well. This one as well as the one from the deluxe Silmarillion should just be included in the book itself. Otherwise, the book seems nice enough.
The problem with the chapbook is that, at 88 pages, it’s quite the volume to make it fit inside the book itself - unlike the accompanying book with The Silmarillion.
@@brewingbooks Maybe, but it is not like The Hobbit is a particularly long book anyway. Eighty or so pages is not that much to add to such a book, especially when it can just be skipped by those who are uninterested. The alternative is not including the text at all, or, as done here, greatly decrease the visual appeal of the book.
@@insurrbution The chapbook! Well, maybe the one included with The Hobbit is a bit too big to be a chapbook, but the one with The Silmarillion definitely is a chapbook.
The standard edition has been available for pre-order on Amazon for over a month, maybe two months. I'm still waiting for the Deluxe edition to show up.
People were expecting way too much out of that series - I loved it. Was it great TV like Breaking Bad, Sopranos, etc?? Nope, but I enjoyed it. And Tolkien is on my bookshelf - not on my screen. I learned to separate the two.
It is amazing how they can make such beautiful books. And then ruin them with horrible design. The colour for the pages of all the standard editions are sadly so missmatched to the aestetics of the books. And the bright green booklet of the deluxe edition really brings down that edition. I mean the aestestics would really be the only reason to choose these editions over cheaper ones. One would think they thought this through a bit further...😢 Everything else about these editions are sooo beautiful otherwise!
The page edges are a bit much on all these trade author-illustrated editions. I think less would be more and plain edges would certainly look much cleaner. Some people seem to really like them, though -- and there are plenty of editions without.
As much as these look nice, I doubt there’s much material by way of illustrations to cover any remaining books. The Silmarillion illustrated by the author edition was quite a stretch in terms of how the term “illustration” is defined.
Goddammit...I JUST ordered a deluxe copy of _The Silmarillion!_ Now I have to do _The Hobbit_ too?!! I've already refused to do _LOTR_ because of that $250 price tag! (EDIT: It's only $125 on Amazon so now I probably WILL get it...later) ARRRGH!
@@insurrbution I WANT to, but that _Silmarillion_ is fucking $195 at B&N! And the _LOTR_ is fucking $250! If book retailers matched Amazon, I'd barely buy there at all!
@@Theomite oh you actually checked! My bad haha. Most people just assume Amazon is all there is without looking anywhere else. Opinion: wait and see what B & N might do for Black Friday.
How to milk a dead author's work for ages, era's in the meanwhile, damn. Don't you find it a wrong thing to produce so many copies, and with more and more increasing prices. Whilst the story remains the same and just for the looks and some goodies to get people into the consumer's mode?
I definitely agree that it feels redundant all these editions coming out year-after-year. Perhaps the flip side to it is that a new generation of young readers, being introduced to Tolkien and collecting for the first time, can turn toward these more modernized versions which may appeal more to them.
It's for people to choose what they want: all these editions are optional. If you have the works and you're happy with what you have, you merely don't need to buy anything further.
The 75th anniversary edition is a great choice. As I’ve commented elsewhere on this video, it’s a great choice if you’re looking for a copy of The Hobbit in a classical book setting (without all of the extra additional aesthetics of the more recent editions)
I really want them to do as many of these as possible. I absolutely love them.
They’re certainly a nice series but the amount ofTolkien illustrations is limited compared to his books 😅
@@brewingbooks honestly I wouldn't mind it if subsequent books contained less or even unrelated illustrations. It's the aesthetic that does it for me.
I wish they switched the colours of the paper edges of the standard editions from the Hobbit and the Silmarillion. Green with green and blue with blue would look alot nicer than green with blue and blue with green.
That would actually be quite an interesting aesthetic 🤔
I personally love the coloured pages with the writing on the side. I love the red pages of the lord of the rings edition and the lime green of the simarillion really stands out
Yes, I like it too. I don't get why some don't seem to like it at all. It strikes me as a lot more meaningful than mere "gilt" edges. And have you seen those people who paint their book edges with hidden images that only reveal themselves when the pages are flexed? Absolutely amazing. Seems like a great - though quite difficult to do - marketing opportunity for the Tolkien Estate.
@@-johnny-deep- Anyone know if the amazon one has the printed edges? They show a picture without???
@@philsilva13 - I see no pictures of the edges on the US Amazon site. The Tolkienguide site lists two different ISBNs, one for the UK version (978-0008627782) and one for the US version (978-0063347533). I'd really think that they both feature the printed edges, but I don't know for sure. It would be pretty strange if they were not identical in that respect.
If you cannot afford to get all or most of the different editions, you have to think carefully about what editon you want. I love your reviews and the respect you have for the books. This edition is the one I think I will be getting, as I like the return to the source. There is something about the authors illustrations that to me gives a better feel for the world Tolkien created, and although I like high fantasy art, these illustrations feel more authentic. Great review thank you.
Well said!
I'd love to see a more in depth review of both of these books! I'd love to see the different illustrations and get your take on the overall differences that might exist due to switching printer/publishers for the newest deluxe. Thanks for coming out with this! I've been starving for information on these!
Noted!
I was so happy to find out through your video they were making a slipcase version of the Hobbit! I preordered one immediately to complete the slipcase set with the previous two. Personally, I'm okay with the way they've included the bonus maps and material. What I do is just frame the maps and put them up around the house.
Hope you enjoy it!
I don't think there is enough illustrated material for more books like these, but it would be great to have reproductions of some of his manuscripts, which are works of art in themselves, as we are only able to see some in the frontispieces of THOME.
Totally agree. Even with these latest two from Sil and TH, some content feels more as a way to fill up the pages. Some sketches can barely be called “illustrations” in themselves. Still, they’re a nice addition and rarely seen elsewhere 🙂
If anything, they might be able to do an Unfinished Tales in this format, but almost certainly not anything else.
I would love to have the slip case version but just cannot get past having the additional 'booklet' sized to fit with the book itself in the slip case, so if you leave to booklet out the main book rattles around in the slip........It just annoys me! Thanks for your great videos and keep going :)
Admittedly it is a bit odd aesthetically. I didn’t really mind it at until ppl kept pointing it out 😅
Great collection. On a separate note; I have been trying to place your accent… from which country do you hail?
I come from under boot, and under boot and over no hills my paths led. And amid the seas, I am he whose accent sounds unheard 🍃 … sorry, couldn’t resist riddling 😅
@@brewingbooks The perfect answer.
I kind of like the removable maps. Can frame them and put on wall.
The slipcase being fit for the book AND the companion pamplet seems a bad idea though. I wonder if it would have a noticeable gap if the pamplet were removed for proper bookshelf display.
There would be a sight gap, yes, if removed unfortunately …
Books should be works of art, especially when the text is enthralling, as it is in the works of Tolkien. These books are really beautiful! Thanks for the very helpful reviews.
Well said! And agreed!
Yes indeed😊
They look great ! Envious of your early delivery :) looking forward to receiving both my copies
Best of luck!
I recently picked up all three standard editions of the author illustrated books. They make a wonderful addition to my library.
I’m glad you like them, well done 🙂
Thanks for mentioning what the binding is!
Happy to help!
Simply wonderful
They’re fantastic, truly.
Thanks for the detailed description
Any time!
Been wanting to see how these look! So awesome you already have them before the release to show us! Thanks!
Glad you like them!
Wow, they are gorgeous. As usual your reviews touch on everything I want to know about the books, so thank you!
You are so welcome!
That is beautiful. I can even accept them going with green instead of red.
Great :D
Does anyone know if they'll release the deluxe edition in the US? I haven't been able to find it.
I believe this will happen soon - perhaps early next year, as there’s always a delay between UK and US releases. Hang in there!
Thanks buddy. I'll have to get myself a copy of the deluxe edition now.
Your welcome! And good choice 🙂
I have all 3 of the illustrated additions now ❤️ they are stunning! Someday I’d love the deluxe set though they are quite expensive.
Wonderful! And, why not? Deluxe editions are great 🙂 with some time and patience, I’m sure you’ll get to collect them too 👍
Thanks again ,James. I wanted to see how these both look juxtaposed with other editions in the same line. Waiting for my copies to arrive.
You’re welcome! Hope you enjoy your copies 🙂
Nice !!! thanks for that. I really wanted to see what this book looked like. Thanks :)
You're most welcome :)
That's cool! I'd like those editions of the books; maybe not deluxe, but with the illustrations would be neat!
The standard edition is an equally great addition to any collection (if you can look past the blue-edged pages 😅)
For what it's worth, these ones ALSO exist as eBooks (at least, in the commonwealth....unsure if William Morrow offers them in the US).
While this is all about BOOKS, I still wanted to mention their existence :)
@@brewingbooks Cool! I actually think the colored edges to the pages is neat; though I understand if you don't like them.😊
Hi, which deluxe editions of the silmarillion, LOTR and the hobbit you recommend ? I would love them illustrated by Alan Lee
I would go for the 2004/2006 editions (those which came in the JRR Tolkien collection box set - but they’re now usually sold as separate books). There might be some corrections that have been made to the texts since that time, but I find them quite remarkable 🙂
Very helpful. Thanks!
You’re welcome! 🙂
Splendid editions! Cant wait to get mine soon
Hope you enjoy it!
Thanks for the review, can't wait for my deluxe edition :)
Awesome! Hope you enjoy it 🙂
Really wanna get my hands on that deluxe evevn though I already have the standard hardcover
Choices I know! 😂
Awesome looking editions.. can’t wait for it to come out
Fantastic! 🙂
Great to see you getting the kind of recognition in the publishing world that gets you early sneak-peak deliveries James. Well deserved.
As with the others - the deluxe looks fantastic but the text along the side of the standard edition's text block doesnt float my boat - regardless, both are very pretty books.
Much appreciated! Though my receiving these copies before publication date is surely an oversight. I highly doubt the publishers know of this channel’s existence 😂
@@brewingbooks oh I see! I'd thought they'd sent you review copies!... which would certainly be worthwhile for them in my opinion. Regardless, always nice to receive something before you expect it 👍🏻
@@kaibear2078 If only! Bought with my own sweat and tears 😂
Glad to see you're back! Great video :)
Hey, thanks!
what a great editions!
can't wait to order my deluxe edition soon!
thanks for the review ❤
Hope you enjoy it!
Welcome back! Great video!
Hey, thanks!
I like your voice , you should do more readings !
Wow thanks! 😄
I can’t wait for this new The Hobbit illustrated Deluxe edition
Great!
Great review man. Really enjoyed it.
Much appreciated!
I found the standard editions of these books to be the best way to own a definitive collection without spending more than $100 on each. I'd recommend those the most to people who may not want to resort to pocket editions or paperbacks.
Good choice!
Can't wait for the standard edition. I really like the design (including the coloured paper edge).
Will this be the last book or will there be more next year?
After Hobbit, LotR, And Silmarillion, there's no Tolkien artwork do further editions in this style.
No more illustrated by the author books planned so far. But there’s the upcoming Letters (expanded edition) in November.
Hello! Is the papers from these books Acids free? I have the Alan lee books but dont know if they are acid free, How to tell?
Hello! Sorry for the late reply. Yes, these should be acid free - usually denoted from the thickness/roughness of the paper.
Beatiful book collection.
Thank you 🙂
This was very enjoyable! Thanks 😊!
Glad you enjoyed it!
A great video as always nice to see you back :)
Hey, thanks!
Very disappointed that the deluxe has the small booklet next to it in the case. Unfortunately now it looks out of place next to the rest of the set. Would have loved it to be included as extra pages of the main book. Love your reviews 👍
That would have been a better approach I believe.
Hello! The standard edition I saw in another video where they say it’s not sewn but you say it is, which is it to clarify?
Second question, which would you recommend to purchase?
Is standard edition more preferred for you than delux because of the light green booklet that comes with the delux?
I got the new illustrated edition for the silmarillion and I absolutely love it! I just keep worrying about damaging it while reading
Awesome! I haven't had any issues so far. As long as you're careful when handling, it shouldn't cause any issues.
@@brewingbooks
that's good to hear
Recently my LOTR illustrated slipcased edition started to have the gold foil come off (the writing and lines) so be carefull indeed, quality seems to be an issue. (never read the book, its literally stored in a bookshelf)
@@TheXsaintz
how weird! I've been reading my illustrated copy and none of the words have rubbed off yet. I always remove the slip before reading tho
@@i_do_stuff_ig So do i but the "by" from "by the author" is almost completely gone and some lines have faded, so im selling it off sadly.
Welcome back indeed!
Thank you!
Nice video. I would get their standard editions if it weren't for the decorated edges. Just not my thing. I have the deluxe preordered from Blackwells. Glad to hear the dragon lecture is included!
Agreed, and hope you get your copy soon!
Whys the invitation in tengwar shouldnt it be in runes 🤔
Good question! But that's how Tolkien wrote it.
So I guess I'm the only one who likes the coloured pages on the illustrated editions? I already have lotr and the Silmarillion illustrated editions and this one looks nice too.
Perhaps 😅 They’re not that bad, though the lettering in the computed edges is what I find the most jarring tbh
Very good video. Now I've got a problem which edition to choose. Both are tempting 😁
Heheh! Oops! 😅
Well that all depends on which matching LotR and Silmarillion you have.
@@insurrbution I happen to have the cheaper editions and finally decided to order this very edition of The Hobbit as well
Looks so cool! I'm hoping to make a review of this book for Hobbit Day.
Please do!
If you have the others, do reviews of them too! :)
@@insurrbution I did
I don't know if you already know this, but those _aren't_ dwarvish runes. They're anglo frisian runes, the runes used by Anglo-Saxons
Except Tolkien adapted them for his own dwarf rune language 🙂
Great video! Would you recommend this edition over the other illustrated versions for a young reader who has never read The Hobbit before and if not which would you recommend?
Hey thanks for your question! For younger readers I’d strongly recommend Jemima Catlin’s illustrated edition of The Hobbit (preferably hardback). I don’t own this particular edition, though I’ve been meaning to, but I’ve had the opportunity to sift through it and it’s a truly wonderful book (besides the story of course 😄)
Thank you so much for the recommendation and taking the time to reply. All the best for the future.@@brewingbooks
It really is a beautiful book. Are the new illustrations in a finished state or are they mostly drafts? Cheers.
Yes there are quite a number of drafts and sketches as illustrations. But there are also some rather beautiful full-page illustrations too 🙂
Is there anywhere online that catalogues which pieces of art are included in which versions of The Hobbit? I got the facsimile gift pack version of The Hobbit (in lenticular box) and I'd be interested to know which art this one has over my version, and whether I can get the art any other way (is it online or in the Art of The Hobbit book?).
I suspect that "The Art of The Hobbit" includes the same pictures as in "Illustrated by the Author", shown here. Maybe some differently coloured/sized versions. This is speculation though as I don't own them myself.
Seems like you got the original release edition, which has far fewer illustrations by Tolkien himself, and only in black and white.
Then of course there are also the ones by Alan Lee, as well as some others which don't interest me personally.
So exciting! I love these Deluxe editions. I wonder what will be next in this series?
Good question!
My guess is one of the three great stories.
Have you ever seen the Houghton Mifflin version of the Hobbit? That is the edition I read as a kid. I know it has the authors illustrations, but I am curious how it compares to this edition! I am trying to find out if it has all the same illustrations. I want to buy it again but I don't want to miss anything if these versions have more.
I just managed to pick up a 70th Anniversary edition of The Hobbit to go with my Tolkien Illustrated editions of LOTR and the Silmarillion (standard editions). This new edition of The Hobbit obviously technically matches my other two books better, but I am wondering if it is that much of an upgrade (it is a clear upgrade, but not sure how much the extra stuff matters) over the 70th Anniversary edition which also has Tolkien illustrations (though I do understand not as many) and has Tolkiens original cover design book jacket. I would love for you to compare this new edition to other editions and if you had to pick one, which would you pick? To me, the LOTR's and Silmarillion in this line are my definitive single copies, and I am trying to decide if I should just keep the 70th to go with them or get this new one.
Ultimately the bonus features are just there to sell the book. Besides those, there’s not much difference between editions. It’s mostly an aesthetic choice of which you prefer best to collect.
I usually don't mind the toned text block, but it would seem that any understanding of the aesthetics of colour matching has gone out the window. The two colours that do not go well together (or must be chosen very carefully) are green and blue. The standard edition would have looked better with a gold, or mustard, or even tan text block.
Well said 👍
For the deluxe, I wish that the gilding and foil was done in copper or bronze. Minor complaint, but it would've been nice to have a BIT more variety.
Great video!! Hopefully I get my copy soon! Completely off topic: I noticed some of your deluxe editions on your shelf still haven't been opened, is there a particular reason for that? I have also seen other channels do it too and I am contemplating whether or not I should leave my deluxe editions in it's original wrappings.
Great review.
Thanks! Glad you enjoyed it 🙂
Amazing editions! I really want to have both 😅
You should!
@@brewingbooks The only bad thing is that the books are expensives (the deluxe editions)😓
Hi James, I am just getting into your channel, you have helped me a lot with some purchases so far. I am just wondering, do the deluxe and standard editions of this line (Hobbit, LOTR, Silmarillion) use the same paper, and therefore, only the exterior is different? I have the standard LOTR version, but I don't love the paper in that edition...
Yes, the deluxes of LotR and TS use the same paper as the trade editions. This is particularly noticeable on the LotR as the paper used in that edition is pretty poor (identical page block to trade, except the gilding to the edges).
Thanks mate! So the paper quality is a bit better in TS?@@stucraig133
Yes they are pretty much the same type of paper as LOTR 👍
Thanks, James! I currently have the Houghton and Mifflin 50th anniversary copy of LOTR, it has lovely paper, but I am looking for another deluxe single-volume copy. Maybe I will have to keep looking!@@brewingbooks
Thanks for yet another great review and comparison !
Is there any chance you could share the ISBN numbers of these (normal edition, not the deluxe) as im really confused with the whole HC & WM publishers information, i would like it to be HC to match it with all my other HC editions.
Your edition should either be 'ISBN 9780008627782' or 'ISBN 9780063347533', is that correct ? If so, which one is it ?
Thank you in advance !
Do you know where the deluxe edition was printed at? I heard they are using a different printing company because of all the quality issues with the LotR deluxe.
It was announced a while ago that it would go like this:
The standard edition would by Rot in Italy, and the deluxe would be by Graphcom (sp? Name?)
Deluxe edition was made by Rotolito (Italy) as usual, while a standard edition by Graphicon (Italy)
@@brewingbooks strange it was supposed to be the OTHER way around!
I’m basing that on what was said on TCG, as well as that someone got a standard edition printed by Rot.
Either way, hope yours are in great shape 😀
@@insurrbution It is the other way around. You can see in the video that the trade is by Rot.
Hey all! Yes my mistake! You’re absolutely right, I switched them around. Rotolito is for the standard, and Graphicon is for the deluxe. Apologies.
Do you have a link to purchase the slipcase edition? I can only find the standard
Can you review a large print LOTR?
At the moment I do not have such editions, but will surely do a video when I acquire a copy :)
@@brewingbooks I collect them as you do but I have to read the large prints. They seem to be pretty rare and finding an intact complete LOTR set is almost impossible
I didn’t really understand what you didn’t like about these editions. Was it mainly the lack of pockets for the map and extra cards? I also notice some marring and dings on the covers which you clearly also noticed, and I surely wouldn’t want those to afflict my copies. Still deciding if I’ll buy either of these or not.
No worries! Those white markings were merely some dust from the slipcase circle cutout when I pulled out the book. As for a dent here and there, that is expected with handling, but they’re mostly superficial.
As for what I’d like to see with these editions is some care in the way the fold-out maps and “bonus features” are included in the book. Rather than simply folding them and putting them at the front or back of the book, considering at least a deluxe edition, it should have some sort of folder at the back in which to place this additional material neatly inside. It was done for some previous publications.
@@brewingbooks Ok, got it. While such pockets can be nice, they are still prone to being ripped by accident when attempting to remove and reinsert whatever additions they are meant to hold! Ideally, pockets should be made from something more forgiving than mere thick paper. Something like those rip-proof Kevlar mailing envelopes would be appropriate. 🙂 And though it's easy enough to ensure that books are packaged in a way that makes them almost immune to shipping damage, since that takes a few more minutes to do, and adds slightly to the expense, there is never enough incentive to do it since probably less than 5% of people even care enough to complain about it. I remember the early days when Amazon was just a book store and *ALL* the books they shipped were first shrink-wrapped in a size-order stack to an oversized piece of cardboard base that was custom fit to the box. This way all the books were held far from the sides of the box and shielded from damage even without any additional padding material. But those days are long gone.
What I find weird, is that the extra stuff you only get with the deluxe but not the standard is...just inside the slipcase itself. Like they could've done an ellaborate box (remember those gift sets of Hobbit and Silm from '99?) or have an envelope or something. The fact it's just loose in the slipcase like that is weird.
What I personally suggest, if anyone has the red LotR deluxe in this style, is keep ALL the extras in the box that one came in (the decorated map of Middle-earth). It's what I'd personally do.
Or if you have the standard editions, keep the maps from the 3 standard editions inside the blue Moria gate box that the illustrated LotR may have came in.
Did the grubby marks on the deluxe book and slipcase come off?
Thankfully yes 🙂 They were fragments from the circle cutting of the slipcase
Good to know! Would you say the quality of the book is an improvement over the recent (somewhat disappointing) Rotolito deluxes?
@@stucraig133 I believe so yes, even though the deluxe is still printed by Rotolito. The standard however is printed by Graphicon (Italy).
@@brewingbooks Wow, HC had previously stated (via TCG) that the *deluxe* would be printed by Graphicon. That's news that they still went with Rotolito for it. Are you sure you have gotten that the right way round?
@@stucraig133 Standard is printed by Rotolito, deluxe by Graphicom. James, I think you have switched the printings details ;-)
🙌🏻
The booklet next to book in the slipcase does not look good in my opinion. They could have included it but not within the slipcase.
True, when you look at it from the spine it looks odd.
Very cool
Thanks
Definitely getting the deluxe edition to go with silmarillion and Lord of the rings editions. I won't get anymore future editions like this now. I just wanted the top trilogy in these editions
Well that's all that will exist in this style anyway, so you're good
Good choice!
@@insurrbution I really hope thsts true. I wish Harper collins would slow down in the release of Tolkien books. When we have so many different editions.
@@BingoBongoBingerz well, you don't have to get them all haha! Or if you do, no hurry to do so, as these aren't limited edition or anything.
@@insurrbution True, however I like to try to get a first print as I have done with all the others
now I gotta buy another deluxe edition 😁
Why two fall of gondolin? 7:20
One signed by Alan Lee 🙂
one of them is signed by the illustrator Alan lee
The Hobbit deluxe edition look great! I wonder what book they’ll do next.
The Great Tales of Middle Earth (Hurin, Beren & Luthien, Gondolin) seems logical but I’m not sure if Tolkien made illustrations for those books since the main selling point of these editions are “illustrated by the author.”
In this format?? None - there's no more artwork by Tolkien himself.
Agreed. This should be the extent of this illustrated series. But I wouldn’t be surprised they’d find a way to stretch it further to more books.
@@brewingbooks While stretching it thin, a possibility COULD be Unfinished Tales, as that would be a 'greatest hits' of LotR, Hobbit and Silm art, where appropriate to that section of the book.
HOWEVER, the issue in that would lie in not having enough imagery to decorate Part 2: The Second Age with.
Hello guys i want to reach c2 english level! This book what level in english b2 or c1 thank you very much!
Int malti?
Hekk jghidu 😄
Great video as always. The real question now is, will there be a unfinished tales edition?
There is not enough material for that.
There weren't enough illustrations for the Silmarillion - there just isn't anything left in the barrel to scrape.
@@stucraig133 And imagine the case for Unfinished Tales if that's the case.
I really am not a fan of the chapbook being seperate, and in such a distinct colour as well. This one as well as the one from the deluxe Silmarillion should just be included in the book itself. Otherwise, the book seems nice enough.
The problem with the chapbook is that, at 88 pages, it’s quite the volume to make it fit inside the book itself - unlike the accompanying book with The Silmarillion.
@@brewingbooks
Maybe, but it is not like The Hobbit is a particularly long book anyway. Eighty or so pages is not that much to add to such a book, especially when it can just be skipped by those who are uninterested. The alternative is not including the text at all, or, as done here, greatly decrease the visual appeal of the book.
the what book??
@@insurrbution
The chapbook! Well, maybe the one included with The Hobbit is a bit too big to be a chapbook, but the one with The Silmarillion definitely is a chapbook.
@@Aarvaagen I've literally heard of that term before
The standard edition has been available for pre-order on Amazon for over a month, maybe two months. I'm still waiting for the Deluxe edition to show up.
Amazon US? Your slipcased edition is due to be published next year. They're (the US publisher) a year behind with the slipcased ones.
🤞
I can't find a single listing for the deluxe edition...not on amazon or barnes and noble or even the publisher's website...what is going on?
😍👌
can't wait for new books after the sour aftertaste the Rings Of Power left me, my god that was terrible. This new book looks great imo :)
People were expecting way too much out of that series - I loved it. Was it great TV like Breaking Bad, Sopranos, etc?? Nope, but I enjoyed it.
And Tolkien is on my bookshelf - not on my screen. I learned to separate the two.
It’s certainly a great addition 🙂
😅😅😅😅
Indeed! 🤣
Great video again. I can't wait to get mine! This is the last version I get. I have 6 or 7 myself now and also some in Polish because of the wife.
Hope you enjoy it!
It is amazing how they can make such beautiful books. And then ruin them with horrible design. The colour for the pages of all the standard editions are sadly so missmatched to the aestetics of the books. And the bright green booklet of the deluxe edition really brings down that edition. I mean the aestestics would really be the only reason to choose these editions over cheaper ones. One would think they thought this through a bit further...😢
Everything else about these editions are sooo beautiful otherwise!
The page edges are a bit much on all these trade author-illustrated editions. I think less would be more and plain edges would certainly look much cleaner. Some people seem to really like them, though -- and there are plenty of editions without.
I have to agreed about the solid colours on the page edges for the standard editions. They’re just a bit too much.
I think next "illustrated by the author" edition will be The Children of Húrin or Tales from Perilous Realm
As much as these look nice, I doubt there’s much material by way of illustrations to cover any remaining books. The Silmarillion illustrated by the author edition was quite a stretch in terms of how the term “illustration” is defined.
LMAO
Tolkien didn't artwork for ANY of those. Wanna how much would be used for a CoH edition with Tolkien's own art? 5-10 illustrations.
@@brewingbooks I think you're right. But there's a little hope: the Tolkien State shan't lose the chance to take more money 😅
thank you for letting us know that they both are sewn bound. i'm always curious about that. please marry me. thank you.
You’re welcome 🙂
as a designer the blue and green looks absolutely terrible.
Absolutely … 😔
Ya tienes un suscriptor menos.. 🥲
It is the way of things ...
So long as they don’t edit it ‘for modern audiences) as they are doing these days….
Indeed 👍
Goddammit...I JUST ordered a deluxe copy of _The Silmarillion!_ Now I have to do _The Hobbit_ too?!! I've already refused to do _LOTR_ because of that $250 price tag! (EDIT: It's only $125 on Amazon so now I probably WILL get it...later) ARRRGH!
That’s the problem with all these new editions. We always find them unnecessary, but then get lured into buying them 😅
@@brewingbooks If it wasn't for the deluxe editions, I wouldn't have blinked. But the slipcases and bonus stuff suckered me in.
Stop buying books from Amazon!
@@insurrbution I WANT to, but that _Silmarillion_ is fucking $195 at B&N! And the _LOTR_ is fucking $250! If book retailers matched Amazon, I'd barely buy there at all!
@@Theomite oh you actually checked! My bad haha. Most people just assume Amazon is all there is without looking anywhere else.
Opinion: wait and see what B & N might do for Black Friday.
How to milk a dead author's work for ages, era's in the meanwhile, damn. Don't you find it a wrong thing to produce so many copies, and with more and more increasing prices. Whilst the story remains the same and just for the looks and some goodies to get people into the consumer's mode?
I definitely agree that it feels redundant all these editions coming out year-after-year. Perhaps the flip side to it is that a new generation of young readers, being introduced to Tolkien and collecting for the first time, can turn toward these more modernized versions which may appeal more to them.
It's for people to choose what they want: all these editions are optional. If you have the works and you're happy with what you have, you merely don't need to buy anything further.
ummm whqt is dis uhhh ahhahooie
Did you have a baby? You look a bit tired.
😂
Read the Quran.
I have read it. But this channel is about Tolkien.
Read Tolkien, he has a more coherent mythology.
Not really relevant.
I just bought the 75th anniversary edition. Now I need to get this one to compliment the LOTR 🥹
The 75th anniversary edition is a great choice. As I’ve commented elsewhere on this video, it’s a great choice if you’re looking for a copy of The Hobbit in a classical book setting (without all of the extra additional aesthetics of the more recent editions)
@@brewingbooks of course I bought it because of your recommendation 😁