I actually just about all 3 of these lord of the rings books. All in paperback though on eBay for $26 :) just have to find the hobbit in paperback I’m excited! Some of my other books by Tolkien are in hardback like tales from the perilous realm and the children of Hurin. Something about the trilogy I find myself always coming back to so I’m happy with a paperback edition:)
Bro i got steal deal on these I was skeptical if they would be brand new but boy they were brand new I only plaid 45$$ This illustrated set is just beautiful it will also grace your shelf
I have the one volume edition with the gold leaf, and it's absolutely gorgeous, but I never read it - very impractical! This new boxed edition with The Hobbit looks great. I love the dust jacket designs and they look amazing on your book shelf!
@Patrick B And, the font and paper aren't sacrificed in order to squeeze everything into 1 physical book. If you compare a 1-book edition, side by side to it as 3, the 3 together are MUCH thicker than the 1 (there are factors for this to work: same publisher, and both need to be illustrated, or not)
@@insurrbution thanks for the info! The book was a gift so it wasn't chosen :) Had I chosen for myself, I would have gone for three books rather than one. But regardless, it is a beautiful book to own if not to actually read
I have this as well (50th Anniversary). I haven't read it yet but plan to. It is smyth sewn so the binding is quite good on it for reading though it is hard to hold comfortably. But I don't mind it as much. I just won't take it on trips! That's what my paperback versions are for.
12:52 I haven't read my copy of The Hobbit because the font size is small. But this one is a must-have. The font size is big, hardcover and it has pictures.
I was looking to replace my crummy movie-edition paperbacks with a really nice, beautiful hardcover set with the Alan Lee illustrations (but I didn’t want the giant one-volume version), and it looks like I found the perfect set for me! Receiving it for Christmas :D
Thanks for doing this video. It's so hard to know what you are buying without videos like this. :) I have the 60th anniversary edition which has the Alan Lee illustrations and came out in 2014. Very impractical for reading though. I love how these new versions match the great tales and I believe they are releasing Unfinished Tales in the same format. I suspect they will do the Silmarilion in this format next.
Thanks! I think you're right about the Silmarillion, but as the previous illustrated editions of that book have been done by Ted Nasmith, it will be interesting to see if they stick with those images, or do like they are with Unfinished Tales, and use a collection from Nasmith, John Howe and Alan Lee.
Not very fond of an illustrated, 1-book edition. How does the publisher expect anyone to actually read that?? The '97 Hobbit, 2002 LotR boxed set, and 2004 Silmarillion are PERFECT together.
I have the original Harper Collins ones from 1992 and they have a hold on me something similar to the ring on Bilbo. For me they’re works of art, and that’s before we ever start reading. Seriously tempted to buy this set also, although the `paper’ look to the dust jackets puts me off to a degree.
I had long wanted the Folio Society edition of Lord of the Rings, but it never made sense to spend so much on a set which lacked the wonderful illustrations done by Alan Lee. I just ordered this boxed set, and it seems as though I get the best of both worlds: quality books with my preferred illustrator. Thanks for sharing your thoughts on this new edition.
I purchased the folio edition years ago and just purchased these. If anyone comes across this comment, definitely get these over folio! There is wear on the spines of my folio editions.
I just ordered these after giving it a very long thought. I couldn't decide between 50th, 60th edition single books or these. In the end you convinced me, since I want to be able to read them comfortably and the others seemed way to big. Almost went for the 50th I must say, sadly the lack of illustrations deterred me. Now, I'm, just crossing fingers hoping that amazon doesn't deliver them completely damaged! Yikes... Can't wait.
Very nice collection. I'm thinking about getting one. The artwork is obviously great but I think the sketches which were added within the pages really add a lot.
...my box actually did fall apart in the mail because they were not shipped well (big box, no bubblewrap, not even a cellophane wrap). But I got another set in perfect condition and I do love them. My only nitpicks would be the print quality of the illustrations, the maps not being fold out, and the Two Towers has a scary picture of Shelob. Also the dust jackets are very soft. You can dent them just pulling them out of the box.
I'm in the US and was having a hard time finding a nice HC set. After watching this video I followed the Amazon UK link you posted and learned I CAN buy from there with my US account. Just had to pay the exchange rate. So I ordered this today. Will be a NICE upgrade to the paperbacks I bought 38 year ago!
@@LarrysLibrary thank you, last question, is the print from china or europe? I heard HC starts printing lesser quality versions from China of their books after some time. Do you know which is the one from Amazon.co.uk?
I've noticed the UK editions of the illustrated books are thicker and not as broad from spine to edge. I have the US editions of the illustrated books and they look vastly different from just a cover stand point. These look like they would actually fit in a book sleeve unlike the US editions which are just too wide across. I like that the editions you are sharing have a built-in bookmark. Excellent for chronic bookmark-misplacers.
You can get it from these people: www.booksnbeyond.in based in India. They bring international release and are having a deal right now to bring these LOTR illustrated package to India. Checkout the link , you won’t be disappointed
@@Readwithsumit I also found one on bookdepository.com with free shipping worldwide. But I wonder if it will be cheaper on Amazon/flipkart when released
Thanks for this review. I was torn between buying the illustrated edition and the other one that stayed close to the old version. I saw the cat and I have made my decision ☺
I think you’re loads cute, and I loved your description of the current set as well as the others. I’ve always enjoyed Tolkien since I first read him years and years ago, but now am scouting reviews to decide which set to buy. I have a deluxe illustrated hardback of the Hobbit, so I’m thinking of options. Thanks for the lovely vid!
My problem with the set is its so precious and beautiful I'd hesitate to bring one of the books on holiday or anywhere to read it away from home, but if I have all in one old lotr book I can thrash if anywhere
Thats impressive but its nothing like the amazing one we are getting later this year in october since its 2021 now, it has all the illustrations and sketches from tolkien and it has the original design for the eye of sauron on the front
My only issue is that with the money these cost, and for the most part worth it for the quality of them, I’d like to see something on the physical hard cover on the front vs just plain red. I wish I could get my hands on a set to just to look at and feel before buying.
i only have the 50th anniversary edition together with its version of silmarillion and unfinished tales. couldn't find the illustrated version here in Phillipines. well unless i have to buy it on scalpers that its twice the price goodlord....
I saw these books pop up in a facebook group about sci-fi and fantasy books and I'm DEFINITELY going to order them 😍 I'm a big Tolkien fan but my current editions of The Hobbit and LOTR are small, beat-up paperbacks which I got second-hand. Of course, these certainly have their charm but I could do with an upgrade, especially one with such gorgeous illustrations ❤ On another note, I can't believe I'm only now discovering a TH-cam channel entitled "Talking Tolkien". My wallet won't agree with me if you make many of these reviews but I subscribed nonetheless 😀
I wish they would make a matching box set with the Silmarillion, unfinished tales, Beren&Luthien, the fall of Gondolin, and the Children of Hurin. If they would make a new edition of this I would prefer the glossy pictures and jacket, and the fold out maps. I like being able to pull the map out beside the text.
@@TalkingTolkien Agreed - I think they should have stuck with the images used for the front and rear of the dustjackets used for the 1997 Alan Lee Hobbit, and the 2002 Alan Lee Lord of the Rings boxed set. Now, for The Silmarillion..... (ps, while, yes, you mentioned the forthcoming illustrated edition of Unfinished Tales; there will also be a slipcased collector's edition of that release.)
@@Trotter_Tolkien I've contacted HarperCollins regarding this peculiarity and here how they responded: Good afternoon The design artist wanted The Return of the King barcode centred , so as not to disturb the symmetry of the picture-in-picture design of the painting, but did not want it centred on The Two Towers because it would have covered up the character at the foot of the steps. Kind regards, Dawn
@@Amedautrui That's what I figured. HC is pretty good when it comes to placing fonts and barcodes on top of artwork, to disrupt the image as least as possible.
i was wondering how often those pictures pop up in the text as often calling some of those editions illustrated is overstatement. i would expect 1-2 per chapter. thanks
@@TalkingTolkien Thanks for the instant reply man, I think I'll go for the illustrated version, I'm a fan of Lee's artwork, it was mostly the question of, if the text only feels more authentic to the original somehow. Still, the illustrated looks too good to not get it.
Hey there Italian guy here! In italy they do sell the english leather box set for 40€. Is that the best box set i can get? Or do I get any cut or thing i dont know :)?
The books are elegantly finished, and clear thought and care was put into this set, but if their added value is the fact that they were illustrated by one of the main Tolkien artists, I must say I feel that not many illustrations were included. That, and the fact that the paper they are printed on isn't rich enough to make them stand out.
i bought mine at 50% sale on amazon uk, it's quite a deal and i'd say cheaper still than buying them separately + you get a beautiful box. they go on sale quite frequently so just watch out for that, imo
Recently found your channel, loving going through the videos. I have a couple of questions for you. Where do you get the glassine covers I sometimes see over your dustjackets ? Are there any new illustrations in this set ? Thanks again :7
Thanks! If you search around for "Mylar dustjacket covers", it's a roll of clear plastic backed by paper which protects the jackets without needing to be stuck down at all. I think that all the illustrations have been previously published.
So, I got a bad condition of my LOTR book from school after the school letting me keep it, I was thinking about getting this aswell, I like the films and the illustrations look solid should I get this, it is on offer for 74.99
Do you have the ISBNs for this entire collection of tolkien books ? I mean.... I can see they are harcover with dust jacket but on Amazon....if you put hardcover it appears the Deluxe collection
Like Children of Hurin? Here is the link for that, or just search for "Children of Hurin hardcover". www.amazon.co.uk/Children-H%C3%BArin-J-R-Tolkien/dp/0007246226/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=children+of+hurin&qid=1595063847&sr=8-1 You will be able to find Fall of Gondolin and Beren and Luthien too, but Tales from the Perilous Realm has been out of print for a few years, so the second hand market would be your best bet there.
Watched the movie many many times. Never read the book. Would you recommend going for the illustrated version or just take the regular 4 books set with some 'mass market' cover and regular pages?
Hey quick question. Are these hardback editions the same size as a traditional hardback (Like the U.S. Game of Thrones editions)? I've also seen someone on Amazon U.S. say that their copy of the new Unfinished Tales Illustrated Edition was actually slightly larger than their LotR editions. Wondering if I should order from U.K. so everything is the same size
i dont know if i should read the german version or an english one. I watched the movies in german maybe reading the german ones would be better for me but since tolkien wrote it in english ... And there are so many different versions, its hard to decide. I really want an illustrated version tho
Thank you for the thorough and informative review. Does this edition contain the "most correct" version of the text itself? Does it introduce any corrections not found in earlier editions?
Yep this is currently the "most correct" version, but seems there is at least one error in there. More details here: wayneandchristina.wordpress.com/2020/07/17/lord-of-the-rings-comparison-4/
Yeah, ESSENTIALLY any edition published in 2004 or 2005, and of course, later, will have the most accurate text. There's been a few releases, but what I'm getting at is this: the changes from the 2004/5 editions to present are extremely minor when compared to pre-2004/5, and the 2004/5 revision.
Hello, i'm from Brasil and i just ordered this gorgeous boxset yesterday. I have one question , do you think someday we will have the silmarillion's Illustrated edition by Alan Lee? Its the only book of the Tolkiens legendarium that wasn't ilustrated by him, what do you think?
No - it's published by Harpercollins (UK), not Houghton Mifflin (US). Houghton Mifflin has their own illustrated editions still in print - check on Barnes & Noble.
Could you please show the books without the dust jackets in future reviews and videos? Idk why but it's really rare to see someone taking them off, and it drives me mad cuz I need to see ALL the book before buying it. Thanks!!
Just ordered this set 😁. I find your videos so useful because there’s so many editions, this set ticks all the boxes for me. Do you know how many copies were made for the first print?
@@TalkingTolkien If you plan to get the new illustrated Unfinished Tales coming out on Oct 1, that'd be great :) If you go for the collector's edition, I have a few questions that can be answered visually, via photo/video: - what are the two exclusive fold-out posters? - does it include a frontispiece? - Do the size dimensions complement the other collector's editions, or is it a 'black sheep' when it comes to the height? In case you didn't know about, here are the associated ISBN's: Standard hardback: 9780008387952 Collector's Edition: 9780008387969
@@TalkingTolkien I'm confident your video will answer any questions I may have. If I still have 1-2 more after it, I'll post in the comments section :) Also, from what I saw on a facebook post, it seems that the Unfinished Tales Illustrated Collector's Edition is supplied in its own cardboard box - kind of like the limited edition of The Children of Hurin, and The Lord of the Rings 2014 illustrated edition. I could very well be wrong, and it may be from a retailer (ie: Waterstones may ship it like that, but not Blackwell's), though I saw a barcode on the box, which is why I'm bringing it up. I'm not referring to the slipcase but...well, a standard shipping box :P
So im collecting all first impressions of these matte hardcover books that have been released and this boxset are the only books I have that arent first impressions. Soooo if ya want to sell then name your price and ill even ship you my boxset I currently have as a replacement...from, a desperate collector
@@TalkingTolkien Was fortunate to find the set today! Excited for the History of the Hobbit in this hardback style. Along with rumors of HoME also coming in this style
This is by HarperCollins, the UK publisher of Tolkien's books. I don't think this will be released in this exaxt version in The US, but it's possible that American publishers may release something similar. I imagine it could be imported?
Blackwell's has been very good at importing to North America during 2020, so check them out there. Package may take a while, and may be untracked, though it'll arrive, and well packaged. From my own experience, at least.
May I ask how you protect the dust jackets of these beautiful books? I saw some spines are kinda shinny, did you use some plastic cover? BTW, I like your Tolkien collection.
Yes, if you search around for dust jacket protector, you should find a roll of plastic film. Basically you cut it to size and fit it around the dustjacket. There is no need to tape it down or anything, so it doesn't damage the cover. I believe the better quality ones protect from UV rays as well, but I've had a roll for years and can't remember exactly what it was. Definitely worth getting if you want to protect your books though!
@TalkingTolkien Luxurious is probably the first thing that comes to mind. For a book, "of superior quality", sumptuous. I'm not saying it isn't being misused and it's perfectly legitimate to point that out. It just struck me as quite a nice way to subtly suggest HC doesn't use it to mean anything.
@@TalkingTolkien And it was well made. It just amused me out of context. But yes, put a cloth cover and slip case on, use acid free paper - voila, deluxe. I feel more as if I have deluxe in my hands with the quarter bound leather, but I think they call that super-deluxe. The trouble with modern marketing is that you run out of superlatives before you finish improving product - what would they call half-bound leather? Ultra Deluxe? But then what do you call full leather? Marketing departments need to cool down a bit, because none of us believe the words anyway (and how is something "deluxe" if pages vary in colour and edges stick together from gilt edging?).
![[LOTR] The Complete History of Arda and Middle-earth](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/wZR-fQ0Nvq4/mqdefault.jpg)
I told myself I wouldn’t spend the money on the set...but after watching this, I don’t think I have any choice in the matter
Let's admit it. The writing of LoTR is hard to read but this set right here is a must-buy. The story of LoTR never gets old anyway.
@@deanryanmartin I personally think Hobbit is masterfully written. I wish Tolkien’s style was the same with the trilogy
@@ActuallyJamesS I’m aware, I still prefer The Hobbit’s writing style. Maybe I’m still intellectually a child haha
I actually just about all 3 of these lord of the rings books. All in paperback though on eBay for $26 :) just have to find the hobbit in paperback I’m excited! Some of my other books by Tolkien are in hardback like tales from the perilous realm and the children of Hurin. Something about the trilogy I find myself always coming back to so I’m happy with a paperback edition:)
Bro i got steal deal on these I was skeptical if they would be brand new but boy they were brand new
I only plaid 45$$
This illustrated set is just beautiful it will also grace your shelf
Anyone else have the issue where money just randomly left your bank account and coincidentally these books came?
After watching this video for at least 20 times, I can finally say that I got these in the mail. Stunning 😍
Page quality √
Binding √
Illustration √
Box set √
One of the best edition of HOBBIT & LOTR.
I have the one volume edition with the gold leaf, and it's absolutely gorgeous, but I never read it - very impractical! This new boxed edition with The Hobbit looks great. I love the dust jacket designs and they look amazing on your book shelf!
The illustrated edition also exited as a 3-book boxed set
@Patrick B And, the font and paper aren't sacrificed in order to squeeze everything into 1 physical book. If you compare a 1-book edition, side by side to it as 3, the 3 together are MUCH thicker than the 1 (there are factors for this to work: same publisher, and both need to be illustrated, or not)
@@insurrbution thanks for the info! The book was a gift so it wasn't chosen :) Had I chosen for myself, I would have gone for three books rather than one. But regardless, it is a beautiful book to own if not to actually read
I have this as well (50th Anniversary). I haven't read it yet but plan to. It is smyth sewn so the binding is quite good on it for reading though it is hard to hold comfortably. But I don't mind it as much. I just won't take it on trips! That's what my paperback versions are for.
yes I will buy these instead
12:52 I haven't read my copy of The Hobbit because the font size is small. But this one is a must-have. The font size is big, hardcover and it has pictures.
I was looking to replace my crummy movie-edition paperbacks with a really nice, beautiful hardcover set with the Alan Lee illustrations (but I didn’t want the giant one-volume version), and it looks like I found the perfect set for me! Receiving it for Christmas :D
I haven’t even read the lord of the rings yet but I still love your videos. I have read The Hobbit and it’s one of the best books I’ve ever read
5:37 This edition is hot. The font size is big and the artwork is good.
When you are showing a book without the dust cover, please show the spine of the book.
I just got this off Amazon for my first ever reading. Awesome quality books, big and heavy and feel great with the covers off. Would recommend.
I preordered the set and donated it to my college library since there Lord of the Rings editions weren’t in great condition.
Thanks for doing this video. It's so hard to know what you are buying without videos like this. :) I have the 60th anniversary edition which has the Alan Lee illustrations and came out in 2014. Very impractical for reading though. I love how these new versions match the great tales and I believe they are releasing Unfinished Tales in the same format. I suspect they will do the Silmarilion in this format next.
Thanks! I think you're right about the Silmarillion, but as the previous illustrated editions of that book have been done by Ted Nasmith, it will be interesting to see if they stick with those images, or do like they are with Unfinished Tales, and use a collection from Nasmith, John Howe and Alan Lee.
@@TalkingTolkien I'd certainly be happy with more illustrations as long as they don't take any out. :)
I just got this Box Set of latest editions in mail today . Great copies. Loved them.
Man, you are costing me money! ;) Have to have this set.
I hve purchased the fellowship of the ring and return of the king . Waiting for others to be available . This Edition is amazing
the TRUE illustrated editions - no huge, unreadable books here!!
Not very fond of the 2002 set?
Not very fond of an illustrated, 1-book edition. How does the publisher expect anyone to actually read that?? The '97 Hobbit, 2002 LotR boxed set, and 2004 Silmarillion are PERFECT together.
I read a 2200 page book
I have the original Harper Collins ones from 1992 and they have a hold on me something similar to the ring on Bilbo. For me they’re works of art, and that’s before we ever start reading. Seriously tempted to buy this set also, although the `paper’ look to the dust jackets puts me off to a degree.
I had long wanted the Folio Society edition of Lord of the Rings, but it never made sense to spend so much on a set which lacked the wonderful illustrations done by Alan Lee. I just ordered this boxed set, and it seems as though I get the best of both worlds: quality books with my preferred illustrator. Thanks for sharing your thoughts on this new edition.
I purchased the folio edition years ago and just purchased these. If anyone comes across this comment, definitely get these over folio! There is wear on the spines of my folio editions.
Exactly the video I was looking for! Thanks for sharing.
I just ordered these after giving it a very long thought. I couldn't decide between 50th, 60th edition single books or these. In the end you convinced me, since I want to be able to read them comfortably and the others seemed way to big. Almost went for the 50th I must say, sadly the lack of illustrations deterred me. Now, I'm, just crossing fingers hoping that amazon doesn't deliver them completely damaged! Yikes... Can't wait.
Very nice collection. I'm thinking about getting one. The artwork is obviously great but I think the sketches which were added within the pages really add a lot.
Thanks for this nice review. After watching it I decided to order this edition - finally! Greetings from Slovenia ;)
...my box actually did fall apart in the mail because they were not shipped well (big box, no bubblewrap, not even a cellophane wrap). But I got another set in perfect condition and I do love them. My only nitpicks would be the print quality of the illustrations, the maps not being fold out, and the Two Towers has a scary picture of Shelob. Also the dust jackets are very soft. You can dent them just pulling them out of the box.
9:02 This edition of Twin Tower is really hot.
I'm in the US and was having a hard time finding a nice HC set. After watching this video I followed the Amazon UK link you posted and learned I CAN buy from there with my US account. Just had to pay the exchange rate. So I ordered this today. Will be a NICE upgrade to the paperbacks I bought 38 year ago!
How was the order? Did it arrive damaged?
@@madcyborg1822 It was perfect. No problems
@@LarrysLibrary thank you, last question, is the print from china or europe? I heard HC starts printing lesser quality versions from China of their books after some time.
Do you know which is the one from Amazon.co.uk?
I purchased all so happy. They are Gorgeous
I've noticed the UK editions of the illustrated books are thicker and not as broad from spine to edge. I have the US editions of the illustrated books and they look vastly different from just a cover stand point. These look like they would actually fit in a book sleeve unlike the US editions which are just too wide across. I like that the editions you are sharing have a built-in bookmark. Excellent for chronic bookmark-misplacers.
I have been waiting for weeks for these to be available! I can’t wait for mine to get to me. Thanks for your fantastically thorough reviews (:
Now I’m going to have to try and pick these up as well
I'm over 2 years behind....these are the editions I want for my collection and I can't find them in the US.
The best boxed edition out there in my opinion
I was just planing to buy the books and I found this edition but They haven’t yet released in India
I am so excited about these books😳
You can get it from these people: www.booksnbeyond.in based in India. They bring international release and are having a deal right now to bring these LOTR illustrated package to India. Checkout the link , you won’t be disappointed
Please inform me if you find them anywhere
astropiu I have given the link
@@Readwithsumit I also found one on bookdepository.com with free shipping worldwide. But I wonder if it will be cheaper on Amazon/flipkart when released
Ordinary Saloman it’s available on amazon.in but it’s overpriced
For rs10k
Thanks for this review. I was torn between buying the illustrated edition and the other one that stayed close to the old version. I saw the cat and I have made my decision ☺
Great review, as usual!
And yeah, this is a really beautiful collection. I mean I ordered it the moment I saw it without the slightest hesitation.
Are there pictures in here that aren’t in the 60th anniversary book?
Nope, the LoTR pictures are the same as the 60th anniversary book.
Very beautiful edition.
Is the binding sewn or glued?
Hope you review the new deluxe version in October
I think you’re loads cute, and I loved your description of the current set as well as the others. I’ve always enjoyed Tolkien since I first read him years and years ago, but now am scouting reviews to decide which set to buy. I have a deluxe illustrated hardback of the Hobbit, so I’m thinking of options. Thanks for the lovely vid!
Would love to see you compare and review Folio Society or Easton Press versions of the series as well.
Do you have a video covering the different versions of the Hobbit? Loved the Silmarillion video you did
My problem with the set is its so precious and beautiful I'd hesitate to bring one of the books on holiday or anywhere to read it away from home, but if I have all in one old lotr book I can thrash if anywhere
Thank you very much for this in-depth review. I think I need this set now :)
Thats impressive but its nothing like the amazing one we are getting later this year in october since its 2021 now, it has all the illustrations and sketches from tolkien and it has the original design for the eye of sauron on the front
My only issue is that with the money these cost, and for the most part worth it for the quality of them, I’d like to see something on the physical hard cover on the front vs just plain red. I wish I could get my hands on a set to just to look at and feel before buying.
Yeah..That would be very helpful
i only have the 50th anniversary edition together with its version of silmarillion and unfinished tales. couldn't find the illustrated version here in Phillipines. well unless i have to buy it on scalpers that its twice the price goodlord....
I saw these books pop up in a facebook group about sci-fi and fantasy books and I'm DEFINITELY going to order them 😍 I'm a big Tolkien fan but my current editions of The Hobbit and LOTR are small, beat-up paperbacks which I got second-hand. Of course, these certainly have their charm but I could do with an upgrade, especially one with such gorgeous illustrations ❤
On another note, I can't believe I'm only now discovering a TH-cam channel entitled "Talking Tolkien". My wallet won't agree with me if you make many of these reviews but I subscribed nonetheless 😀
Well done. Thank you for your thorough review!
Any edition with Ted Nasmith illustrations?
I wish they would make a matching box set with the Silmarillion, unfinished tales, Beren&Luthien, the fall of Gondolin, and the Children of Hurin. If they would make a new edition of this I would prefer the glossy pictures and jacket, and the fold out maps. I like being able to pull the map out beside the text.
Loved your review of this collectors set. I’ll be ordering my copy soon ☺️
In regards to the border on the rear of The Return of the King Grey Havens image:
the image itself has a border, so they presented the image as is.
Yeah I am just surprised that they chose to use that particular image.
@@TalkingTolkien Agreed - I think they should have stuck with the images used for the front and rear of the dustjackets used for the 1997 Alan Lee Hobbit, and the 2002 Alan Lee Lord of the Rings boxed set.
Now, for The Silmarillion.....
(ps, while, yes, you mentioned the forthcoming illustrated edition of Unfinished Tales; there will also be a slipcased collector's edition of that release.)
@@TalkingTolkien and being uber picky, the barcode is in a different position, which does not bother me at all. These editions are fantastic.
@@Trotter_Tolkien I've contacted HarperCollins regarding this peculiarity and here how they responded:
Good afternoon
The design artist wanted The Return of the King barcode centred , so as not to disturb the symmetry of the picture-in-picture design of the painting, but did not want it centred on The Two Towers because it would have covered up the character at the foot of the steps.
Kind regards,
Dawn
@@Amedautrui That's what I figured. HC is pretty good when it comes to placing fonts and barcodes on top of artwork, to disrupt the image as least as possible.
As beautiful as they are they are meant to be read and eventually have a little wear. I plan on doing just that.
Talking Tolkien, you are a legend!
How's the quality on the binding on those?
I switched to Brooks Cambium and happy with it
Regarding the text - You mentioned that the notes on the text was missing, but does this box set have the updated text in them?
i was wondering how often those pictures pop up in the text as often calling some of those editions illustrated is overstatement. i would expect 1-2 per chapter. thanks
would have been cool to have the fold-out maps in this edition
Nice 😍 Because of your channel I bought Tolkien: Maker of Middle Earth. The book is awesome !
Got my set for 74€! The artwork and the quality is superb!
Where
If you could own only one of the two (illustrated or the text only) which one would you choose?
I can't decide which I should get.
If you like Alan Lee's artwork I'd go for the illustrated. If not, don't!
@@TalkingTolkien Thanks for the instant reply man, I think I'll go for the illustrated version, I'm a fan of Lee's artwork, it was mostly the question of, if the text only feels more authentic to the original somehow. Still, the illustrated looks too good to not get it.
Good choice - I don't think you'll regret it!
Amazing video. Love the hat.
I like the hat, also: very "English" :)
2:40 "... failure to communicate..." ...
Anyone gets it?
Do you have the 2004 deluxe edition of LOTR?
Hey there Italian guy here!
In italy they do sell the english leather box set for 40€. Is that the best box set i can get? Or do I get any cut or thing i dont know :)?
Hi! Just a quick question; are these editions cloth- or paperbound. Thanks in advance!
The books are elegantly finished, and clear thought and care was put into this set, but if their added value is the fact that they were illustrated by one of the main Tolkien artists, I must say I feel that not many illustrations were included. That, and the fact that the paper they are printed on isn't rich enough to make them stand out.
Just ordered mine!
Ive heard that these books don't open very well and the pages aren't easy to turn... Is there any truth in that?
Who told you this?
Boxed set is currently expensive. Is buying the 4 books seperately a good option ?
As the cost would be less than half of boxed set.
i bought mine at 50% sale on amazon uk, it's quite a deal and i'd say cheaper still than buying them separately + you get a beautiful box. they go on sale quite frequently so just watch out for that, imo
@@peachbooks3199 yes. got it on sale. Box is also beautiful. Thanks for reply
@@peachbooks3199 how much was it on sale?
Recently found your channel, loving going through the videos. I have a couple of questions for you. Where do you get the glassine covers I sometimes see over your dustjackets ? Are there any new illustrations in this set ? Thanks again :7
Thanks! If you search around for "Mylar dustjacket covers", it's a roll of clear plastic backed by paper which protects the jackets without needing to be stuck down at all.
I think that all the illustrations have been previously published.
Is there a Silmarillion edition that matches, or do we know if any such book is comming
There is indeed. It's out in March.
So, I got a bad condition of my LOTR book from school after the school letting me keep it, I was thinking about getting this aswell, I like the films and the illustrations look solid should I get this, it is on offer for 74.99
I hope Alan Lee will illustrate The Silmarillion and Unfinished Tales
Well the new upcoming unfinished tales book coming out in October is illustrated by Alan Lee and Ted naismith and John howe, all 3 of them I believe
Alan Lee sort of already has illustrated The Silmarillion: The Children of Hurin, Beren and Luthien and The Fall of Gondolin ;)
Are these editions cloth- or paperbound? Thank you in advance.
Do you have the ISBNs for this entire collection of tolkien books ? I mean.... I can see they are harcover with dust jacket but on Amazon....if you put hardcover it appears the Deluxe collection
There is an Amazon link in the Description, if that helps?
@@TalkingTolkien I meant the other editions that match this new boxed set. You have portrayed them in the video.
Like Children of Hurin? Here is the link for that, or just search for "Children of Hurin hardcover". www.amazon.co.uk/Children-H%C3%BArin-J-R-Tolkien/dp/0007246226/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=children+of+hurin&qid=1595063847&sr=8-1
You will be able to find Fall of Gondolin and Beren and Luthien too, but Tales from the Perilous Realm has been out of print for a few years, so the second hand market would be your best bet there.
Those are all new releases for the most part so there arent going to be many versions of the hardcovers
Watched the movie many many times. Never read the book. Would you recommend going for the illustrated version or just take the regular 4 books set with some 'mass market' cover and regular pages?
Hey quick question. Are these hardback editions the same size as a traditional hardback (Like the U.S. Game of Thrones editions)?
I've also seen someone on Amazon U.S. say that their copy of the new Unfinished Tales Illustrated Edition was actually slightly larger than their LotR editions. Wondering if I should order from U.K. so everything is the same size
Do you these there will be a DELUXE illustrated version of this one?
i dont know if i should read the german version or an english one. I watched the movies in german maybe reading the german ones would be better for me but since tolkien wrote it in english ... And there are so many different versions, its hard to decide. I really want an illustrated version tho
Sorry if I missed it, but do you prefer this set vs the deluxe editions? Regarding quality?
It's up to you, but if I were to buy one set, it would be this one.
@@TalkingTolkien thank you, your video helped me. I ordered it.
Thank you for the thorough and informative review. Does this edition contain the "most correct" version of the text itself? Does it introduce any corrections not found in earlier editions?
Yep this is currently the "most correct" version, but seems there is at least one error in there. More details here: wayneandchristina.wordpress.com/2020/07/17/lord-of-the-rings-comparison-4/
Yeah, ESSENTIALLY any edition published in 2004 or 2005, and of course, later, will have the most accurate text. There's been a few releases, but what I'm getting at is this: the changes from the 2004/5 editions to present are extremely minor when compared to pre-2004/5, and the 2004/5 revision.
I think this release might be better than the new 3-in one book
Can you review your cat too? 😻
Hello, i'm from Brasil and i just ordered this gorgeous boxset yesterday. I have one question , do you think someday we will have the silmarillion's Illustrated edition by Alan Lee? Its the only book of the Tolkiens legendarium that wasn't ilustrated by him, what do you think?
No as the illustrated Ted Nasmith edition is so good, so no need for another illustrator.
Plus, Alan has already sort of illustrated by way of his art for The Children of Hurin, Beren and Luthien, and The Fall of Gondolin.
Do you know if they will be selling this edition in the states?
No - it's published by Harpercollins (UK), not Houghton Mifflin (US). Houghton Mifflin has their own illustrated editions still in print - check on Barnes & Noble.
Could you please show the books without the dust jackets in future reviews and videos?
Idk why but it's really rare to see someone taking them off, and it drives me mad cuz I need to see ALL the book before buying it. Thanks!!
Just ordered this set 😁. I find your videos so useful because there’s so many editions, this set ticks all the boxes for me. Do you know how many copies were made for the first print?
I hope that they release US version.
Any new videos soon?
What would you like a video about?
@@TalkingTolkien If you plan to get the new illustrated Unfinished Tales coming out on Oct 1, that'd be great :) If you go for the collector's edition, I have a few questions that can be answered visually, via photo/video:
- what are the two exclusive fold-out posters?
- does it include a frontispiece?
- Do the size dimensions complement the other collector's editions, or is it a 'black sheep' when it comes to the height?
In case you didn't know about, here are the associated ISBN's:
Standard hardback: 9780008387952
Collector's Edition: 9780008387969
Yes I have both editions preordered - hopefully I will be able to get a video up by next weekend which will answer your questions :)
@@TalkingTolkien I'm confident your video will answer any questions I may have. If I still have 1-2 more after it, I'll post in the comments section :)
Also, from what I saw on a facebook post, it seems that the Unfinished Tales Illustrated Collector's Edition is supplied in its own cardboard box - kind of like the limited edition of The Children of Hurin, and The Lord of the Rings 2014 illustrated edition. I could very well be wrong, and it may be from a retailer (ie: Waterstones may ship it like that, but not Blackwell's), though I saw a barcode on the box, which is why I'm bringing it up. I'm not referring to the slipcase but...well, a standard shipping box :P
Im so early i could've preordered the Hobbit😉
Eu queroooooo esses livros 😍 aaaaaaaaaaaaa
Nice video! Is the text on these lord of the rings books the 2014 version?
I would love to know also
So im collecting all first impressions of these matte hardcover books that have been released and this boxset are the only books I have that arent first impressions. Soooo if ya want to sell then name your price and ill even ship you my boxset I currently have as a replacement...from, a desperate collector
Haha I've collected the same so mine aren't for sale at any price! Good luck - the hunt is half the fun!
@@TalkingTolkien Was fortunate to find the set today! Excited for the History of the Hobbit in this hardback style. Along with rumors of HoME also coming in this style
Is this released in the US yet?
This is by HarperCollins, the UK publisher of Tolkien's books. I don't think this will be released in this exaxt version in The US, but it's possible that American publishers may release something similar. I imagine it could be imported?
Blackwell's has been very good at importing to North America during 2020, so check them out there. Package may take a while, and may be untracked, though it'll arrive, and well packaged. From my own experience, at least.
May I ask how you protect the dust jackets of these beautiful books? I saw some spines are kinda shinny, did you use some plastic cover? BTW, I like your Tolkien collection.
Yes, if you search around for dust jacket protector, you should find a roll of plastic film. Basically you cut it to size and fit it around the dustjacket. There is no need to tape it down or anything, so it doesn't damage the cover. I believe the better quality ones protect from UV rays as well, but I've had a roll for years and can't remember exactly what it was. Definitely worth getting if you want to protect your books though!
@@TalkingTolkien Just received my copy of this edition, absolutely stunning, a bit disappointed that the paper seemed not acid-free though.
Nah, it wouldn't be, as it's designed to match the great tales books, as well as the forthcoming illustrated edition of Unfinished Tales.
"Deluxe is just a word, it doesnt really mean anything."
Strange, I thought the whole point of words was to have meaning 😅
What does “deluxe” mean to you?
@TalkingTolkien Luxurious is probably the first thing that comes to mind. For a book, "of superior quality", sumptuous.
I'm not saying it isn't being misused and it's perfectly legitimate to point that out. It just struck me as quite a nice way to subtly suggest HC doesn't use it to mean anything.
@NickBR57 indeed it seems more of a marketing term than a descriptive one nowadays, which dilutes the meaning. That was the point I was subtly making.
@@TalkingTolkien And it was well made. It just amused me out of context.
But yes, put a cloth cover and slip case on, use acid free paper - voila, deluxe.
I feel more as if I have deluxe in my hands with the quarter bound leather, but I think they call that super-deluxe.
The trouble with modern marketing is that you run out of superlatives before you finish improving product - what would they call half-bound leather? Ultra Deluxe? But then what do you call full leather?
Marketing departments need to cool down a bit, because none of us believe the words anyway (and how is something "deluxe" if pages vary in colour and edges stick together from gilt edging?).
Where can I buy them?
Any bookseller that sells HarperCollins' Tolkien books.
www.bookdepository.com/es/Hobbit-Lord-Rings-Boxed-Set-J-R-R-Tolkien/9780008376109?ref=pd_detail_2_sims_cat_bs_1