Book Description

In the third volume of The Lord of the Rings trilogy the good and evil forces join battle, and we see that the triumph of good is not absolute. The Third Age of Middle-earth ends, and the age of the dominion of Men begins. "An impressive achievement, unique among the imaginative works of our times." -- New York Herald Tribune ... Read more

Reviews (207)

You're missing out if you have not read this book!!
Lord of the Rings reads like one very long book that the reader finds themselves unable to put down. It goes without saying that you must read "The Fellowship of the Ring" and "The Two Towers" before you read this one. This, the third segment, is the climax to what the other two stories built up. This was astonishingly real for a book about wizards, hobbits and elves and I loved it. It is the only book that I have ever found myself crying when it was over. It was a sad sort of ending, (I won't spoil it), but it wasn't because of that. These vivid characters whom I had come to know and love for the months that it took me to go through "The Hobbit" and the other Lord of the Rings books were abandoning me. They would go on with their lives and have glorious new adventures of which I could not be a part of...I miss Sam most of all. The afterward of this book is a gem as well, since you can learn to read and write in Elvish and in runes, and find out histories and afterwards behind the epic. This is a must read for anybody. You are missing out if you do not read this. (And I might add that if you haven't, you are among a shrinking number of people, since the series continues only to grow in popularity.)

Suspenseful Ending to a Brilliant Trilogy
This is the third time I have visited the magical world of J.R.R Tolkien's unique Middle-Earth, and I'm sure it won't be the last time! The Return of the King is the final, and in my opinion the best, book in the Lord of the Rings trilogy. With just as much action, adventure, suspense and romance as the first two, the final episode breaks all bounds with not a dull moment in its entirety.
The book resumes the story of the remnants of what was the Fellowship of the Ring, now the Grey Company. Each have gone their separate ways, and Frodo and Samwise have journeyed to Mordor to fulfill their dreadful task of destroying the Ring. Peregrin and Gandalf set out for the slowly dying city of Minas Tirith to inform its Steward, Denethor, of the death of his son Boromir, who died protecting Peregrin and Meriadoc. While Gandalf and Pippin ride East, Merry, with the rest of the Fellowship and the host of Rohan, rides to Edoras to consult the lady Eowyn, daughter of the king of Rohan. However, a new path is revealed to Aragorn and the Grey Company: The Paths of the Dead. All paths hold danger for each company, though Frodo's is the gravest. With Sauron's Eye upon him constantly, the Ring weighs heavier on his conscience than ever, slowly working its evil on his heart. Having lost all hope, Frodo succumbs to despair and even Sam's optimism cannot lift the heavy burden from his mind.
Following the end of the novel, there are the Appendices, which describe the history of each ancient race and its background. Including some excerpts from Bilbo's Red Book, they are a great help in understanding Middle-Earth as a whole.
I could not stop reading this book once I started, and I believe the reader will find it just as addictive. Tolkien combines all of the human weaknesses and strengths into this magnificent story of betrayal, temptation, courage, love, hate and valor. Journey with Frodo and Sam as all of the Races join in the fight that will seal the fate of Middle-Earth and end the Third Age. I guarantee it will be an adventure you will never forget.

Toliken's Masterpiece
The Lord of the Ring The Return of the King The Random House, 1955, 494, $7.99
J.R.R. Tolkin ISBN 0-345-33973-8

It is being hailed as the greatest fantasy epic of are time. The Lord of the Rings The Return of the King is the last book in The Lord of the Rings trilogy. The main characters are Frodo, Sam, Merry, Pippin, Legolas, Gimli, Aragorn, and Gandalf. Pippin, Sam , Merry , and Frodo are hobbits. Legolas is an Elf, Gimli is a Dwarf, Aragorn is a Man, and Gandalf is a Wizard. My favorite part of the book is Pelennor Fields. Frodo is taken to the tower of Cirth Ungol and is saved by Sam. Then they move closer the fires of Mount Doom. While Frodo and Sam are moving towards Mt. Doom the rest of the fellowship is creating a war a a diversion. Will they trick Sauron or will he get the Ring? To find out read this book.
I liked this book because my favorite genre has always been fantasies. I feel that the book is well written and has unforgettable characters. The book is special because of it settings. I'm recommending it because it is one of my favorite books of all time. I would rate the book five out of five stars. Any type of person would like this book.

Drew O., Grade 6
Bales Intermediate, Friendswood , Texas

An amazing end to an amazing epic
The conclusion of JRR Tolkien's fantasy epic is nothing short of astounding, and is recommended to all. In the third part of the trilogy, Frodo and Sam get closer to Mount Doom every day, guided by Smeagol. In the mean time what is left of the Fellowship of the Ring head to Minas Tirith, the capital city of Gondor, to fight the forces of the evil Lord Sauron.

Tolkien is absolutely one of the greatest writers of all time. And I hope that many more readers will embrace this amazing story.

Lord of the Rings: Part 3...The end to a fantastic journey!
I think The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King was a very good book. This book proves that even the smallest of good can overcome evil. Frodo and Sam continue their journey into the depths of Mordor to Mount Doom.While Frodo's burden gets heavier and he gets weaker, he still trudges on. You can find that friends can appear in the most unlikely places, even if you don't expect them to turn up. Sam Gamgee is a good hobbit at heart. He stays true even if Frodo brushes his ideas aside. You can also be powerful without being better then everyone else. Captain Faramir may be powerful, yet he does not take his power to overrule people. You can journey with everyone from Gandalf, Legolas, Gimli, and Aragorn to Smeagol, Frodo, and Sam. If you liked Shelob in the Two Towers, you can take off from the tower where the last book was left off at!!!
The Lord of the Rings: The return of the King is an excellent book for all occassions! With action- packed and excellent adventures, this book can take you for a ride (I'd suggest a horse, the Oliophaunts are too big)! Check out the excellent movie too (the movie missed a couple of parts, but it was still excellent)!! ... Read more

Amazon.com

Even readers who don't normally enjoy Arthurian legends will love this version, a retelling from the point of view of the women behind the throne. Morgaine (more commonly known as Morgan Le Fay) and Gwenhwyfar (a Welsh spelling of Guinevere) struggle for power, using Arthur as a way to score points and promote their respective worldviews. The Mists of Avalon's Camelot politics and intrigue take place at a time when Christianity is taking over the island-nation of Britain; Christianity vs. Faery, and God vs. Goddess are dominant themes.

Young and old alike will enjoy this magical Arthurian reinvention by science fiction and fantasy veteran Marion Zimmer Bradley. --BonnieBouman ... Read more

Reviews (752)

Tho I read this book about 20 yrs ago, I remember it vividly
I was working as a midwife in Berkeley when this book was published. One of my patients was a friend of Marion Zimmer Bradley - and she came to the home birth. Whoa, were the rest of us impressed to have her among us? Yup! I'd already read the book, and although it was about 20 yrs ago, I still remember many of the details vividly. And I'm not even a fan of fantasy books.
Bradley took the liberty of recreating the Arthurian legend with the women as the main characters. They are the creators of like, the keepers of knowledge, the fonts of spirituality, the holders of the keys to the kingdom. The Mists of Avalon, however, is more than a rewrite of the old legend. It's a scholarly exploration of the lesser known issues of religion, medicine, and power during the Middle Ages. The author accomplished a spectacular success in this book not just by weaving an expertly told story, but also by constructing a mythical time and place so effectively that readers have trouble believing that every detail is not the literal truth. The quality and depth of the research that obviously went into this book is astounding, and it can therefore be read on many levels. Where truth, myth, legend, and pure fiction meet and diverge is very difficult to say.
If you haven't already read this masterpiece, do it now.

a great Arthurian legend
This book is nothing like other fantasy novels and Arthurian legends that you may come across. Instead, Marion Zimmer Bradley tells the story of King Arthur from a female point of view, from the perspective of Morgaine (known in most Arthurian legends as Arthur's evil half-sister Morgan le Fay). Many of the details do relate to other Arthurian legends if you attempt to connect events, but this interpretation of events is so much more appealing than all others I've come across. The new perspective and well-conceived plot is extremely intriguing. In spite of the book's length, you will find it impossible to put down once you begin.

This book holds great depth as it explores the theme of religious tolerance. "The older I grow, the more I find that it does not matter what words we use to speak the same truths," says Talesin (Merlin). The clashes between Christianity and Avalon are seen here, as the Christians themselves are often the narrow-mindedly condemning and foolish ones in the novel (Gwenhwyfar, otherwise known as Guinevere, being a great example of these negative qualities). Although it may be disturbing for some Christians to see believers of Christianity behaving so, as it was for myself, there is no attack on Christianity, which is a good religion. Instead, it attacks those who wrongly condemn others while considering their own religion superior and a basis for the rightful damnation of others. The Goddess-based religion of Avalon is essentially the same as Christianity, also beliefs based on what is good, with many of the virtues and values of Christianity. Reading the book makes one feel enlightened.

However, the book is in no way a book that preaches religious tolerance, if that is what I have made it seem. That is merely a theme that came across to me strongly as I read the book, probably due to my circumstances back then. Above all, the book is a great novel, long but not lengthy and with much to present to the reader.

I have no yet read the other Avalon books by MZB, but I have read many reviews and it appears that THE MISTS OF AVALON is the most highly praised out of all four. So, for those who have read and disliked any of the others or for those who are wondering which book to start with, I would recommend this one. I started with it, and it has made me want to read the others.

Best Book I've Ever Read
I won't spoil the book for any potential readers out here, but I will say one word: masterpiece. This is the crowning glory of Marion's works, and I would go so far as to say that it is the crowning glory of Arthurian literature as well! I was so absorbed in it that I finished it in a week, and it has been my absolutely most favorite book ever since!
By the way.. if you're thinking of reading any of the "Song of Ice & Fire" books by George R. R. Martin.. rethink yourself and read this series instead.. it is MUCH better and more worth your time!!!

A mythical, magical, but ultimately human story
I am, perhaps, somewhat biased about this book. I've read it, probably, at least a dozen times: let's put it this way, my hardcover copy is falling apart. Clearly I'm a fan, not just of Arthurian fiction but of Marion Zimmer Bradley as well.

A life-long enjoyment of Arthuriana will teach you one very clear thing: there is no definitive story or Arthur, and therefore all interpretations are as valid as the next. The existence of Arthur can barely be proven, and his identity is certainly up for debate. The stories of Camelot, the Round Table, and certainly of Lancelot and Guinevere are all Norman-French additions to a tale set hundreds of years prior in the Dark Ages. Arthur is an enduring legend but, as we know him, mostly a legend nonetheless.

Bradley's story, then, of the tale of Arthur through the women who knew him, is no less valid an interpretation than any of the rest, and certainly a unique one. Rich with its own legends and myths, "The Mists of Avalon" begins with Igraine, and goes forward through the eyes of Viviane, Morgaine, Morgause, and Gwenhwyfar, each with their own perspective on what truly were momentous times in the history of Britain. As Arthurian myth, it stands on its own two feet as well as any other, with its tales of war, love, religion, loyalty and betrayal spread across and repeated through several generations, closing with the end of an era and the beginning of Saxon rule over the island.

It is also, however, a tale of one human woman, Morgaine, and her life: her beginnings, her path, her faith, her love, her choices, her mistakes, and ultimately, her will to survive. The lesson of "The Mists of Avalon" that I take with me each time I read it is this: we are born to strive towards something, and in the struggle, we sometimes misstep along the way. It is our free will that gives us the ability to make mistakes, and also to accept them, later, as part of being human. It is, in many ways, the struggle that matters most, not the outcome.

This is the lesson of Morgaine's life, and it is what makes "The Mists of Avalon" a life-altering experience for me, and for many others who have read and taken it to their hearts.

time turner
this story takes one from the 21st century way, way back in time. in the last days of the goddess and the power of women, the Mists of Avalon is probably the most convincing story of the times Arthur and the Nights of the Round Table. it glorifys no one and simply tells the story. the Druids and Priestesses are intialy raised above the Christians, but in the end one sees that they are the same in the fight for power. what was a fight for the land and the goddess falls down in a story of human life. it shows how the dark ages became the dark ages. ... Read more

Book Description

The second volume of The Lord of the Rings trilogy relates a tale of the eternal battle between good and evil. "The author has intimate access to an epic tradition of Germanic history, civilized by the gentler genius of modern England." -- New York Times ... Read more

Reviews (311)

At Last.
The magnificence of Rob Inglis' dramatization, both with respect to its place in the Tolkien Legend and in comparision to the present state of the spoken theatre, is quite simply ineffible. Here presented is THE ONLY completely unabriged reading of the Lord of the Rings to be found, and to commuters like me, it represents a long awaited opportunity to become aquianted with the work of a genius without fear of losing precious shards of his masterpiece to the whim of an editor. Worth every moment of the 20 hour listening time, from the endearing character voices to the hearty singing of songs and chanting of poetry that is sure to linger in your mind throughout the day. A purely wonderful experience for both Tolkien Veterans and the uninitiated alike.

This masterpiece is well worth the time!
The Two Towers
Book Review
J. R. R. Tolkien's The Two Towers is a fantastic book. It is the kind of fantasy that every person would enjoy. There is every kind of event, so even the pickiest person would be able to find something they like. The second book in a three part series, The Two Towers continues the story of the Ring. The reader meets many new characters, including the Ents and the Riders of Rohan. The Two Towers is about the quest to destroy the Ring of Power. If the dark lord Sauron gets the Ring, all of Middle-earth will be destroyed. The broken fellowship now insists of three groups: Legolas, Aragorn and Gimli, Merry and Pippen, and Frodo and Sam. The novel starts with the death of Boromir, who was taken over by the Ring. Legolas, Aragorn, and Gimli immediately set out to find Merry and Pippen. Merry and Pippen have been captured by the enemy and must be rescued. This
begins The Two Towers, with many more adventures to come. The Two Towers is a must-read for anyone who likes fantasy and adventure. There are no weaknesses. I enjoyed reading the novel very much. The beginning starts out slow, but things speed up quickly. Anyone who likes fantasy will enjoy it because every page in this masterpiece is very well written. The Two Towers is definitely a great book.

A GREAT read for all types of readers!
The Two Towers is a stellar sequel to the Lord of the Rings series. Set in a land of spectacular, grandiose adventure, the Fellowship of the Ring has been split up, with Boromir's death, the capture of Merry and Pippin, and the departure of Frodo and Sam, on their way to decimate the One Ring created by Sauron, the Dark Lord. Tolkien's story of Middle-Earth is bamboozling in how a writer can accomplish so much in such a small package, with so much adventure, emotion, and tragedy! While Gandalf is lost since Moria, Aragorn, Gimli, and Legolas are looking for the captured Merry and Pippin.

Saruman is still after the Ring, Sauron is also searching for his own creation of evil. Will they find it, read and find out!

Alright, so what is Middle-Earth? Middle-Earth is a magical place with wizards, Men, Elves, Dwarves, and Hobbits. Wait, hold on, What are hobbits?

Hobbits, more formally named as halflings, are gentle folk, about as tall as your waist, and have a taste for comfort. It just so happens that Frodo, Sam, Merry, and Pippin are hobbits, hobbits with a mission. Okay, back to the subject.

Middle-Earth is a land in peril, unbeknownst to most hobbits, but known to some. Sauron has found the Ring, and plans to catch it. If he does, the entire world of Middle-Earth will be under his evil rule. This is why the Fellowship is their only hope of winning against Sauron. And the fate of the Fellowship lies in the hands of their leader, Frodo Baggins, the Ringbearer.

That is the story of Middle-Earth. But now to my review. This book is an absolute ten out of ten. I mean it is a book for readers of all kinds! Out of the myriad of books I have read, Tolkiens are the best!

Liked the first one better
I am not a fantasy fan but wanted to read this anyways- It took sometime getting through it. For some reason I liked the first one better

Lord of the Rings the Two Towers
The second book of J.R.R. Tolkien's three piece story. It has a lot of action and suspense. The book has basically two different stories intwined togather. One of the stories is the becoming of a king. The other story is about the small hobbit who has to save the world by destroying the magical ring of power. Aragorn and his fellow friends are trying to tarck down their other friends who were captured by some orcs. The two hobbits that were captured gathered up some tree-like creatures and destroyed one of the two towers it was called Isengard. While the small hobbit named Frodo is led on by an evil being named Gollum who leads Frodo it to a trap near the end. This book is a real page turner. You may never want to put this one down. There is so much developement within each of the characters that you feel like you have known them for a long time. I would reccomend this book to somebody of any age who likes action-packed fanstasy stories. ... Read more

Amazon.com

As the inhabitants of Redwall Abbey bask in the glorious Summerof the Late Rose, all is quiet and peaceful. But things are not as theyseem. Cluny the Scourge, the evil one-eyed rat warlord, is hell-bent ondestroying the tranquility as he prepares to fight a bloody battle forthe ownership of Redwall. This dazzling story in the Redwall series ispacked with all the wit, wisdom, humor, and blood-curdling adventure ofthe other books in the collection, but has the added bonus of takingthe reader right back to the heart and soul of Redwall Abbey and thecharacters who live there.

Magical, mystical, and the stuff of legends, this stunning tale of goodbattling with--and ultimately triumphing over--evil takes the reader ona roller-coaster adventure that barely draws breath from the first pageto the very last. Brian Jacques is a true master of his craft.--Susan Harrison ... Read more

Reviews (623)

Redwall is a joy to read at any age

Redwall is one of the finest examples of children's literature I've ever read. The detail that Brian Jacques puts into his books makes them a joy for children to read...and for adults to read aloud, or to themselves.

In Jacques' books, each species of animal speaks with a different dialect, mostly different British dialects. The descriptions of the foods and feasts of Redwall Abbey make one want to go out and try some of the moles "Deeper 'n' ever pie;" and what I wouldn't give to be able to taste one of the Abbott's cakes frosted with buttercup cream!

Brian Jacques has given the world a book that children and adults alike can enjoy. He begins with a wonderful description of the tales' villian...Cluney the Scourge...and holds the reader spellbound through the mysteries, adventures and romances that follow.

I first read this book about four years ago. Then, while I was pregnant with our only child, I then proceeded to read it a second time, aloud, so that my daughter, Madison, would develop a love of literature at a very young age. I even recorded the story so that Madison would be able to listen to it in the future.

Many times we are tempted to "wait for the movie," especially when it comes to children's literature. But this book is made for reading. Jacques unique dialects and "turns of the phrase" are wonderful for the preteen set to read by themselves (at 400 or so pages, they can feel like they are finally reading a real novel) or for an adult to read aloud to a younger group.

Once you have read this first in Jacques' Redwall series, you will find yourself eagerly awaiting the next installment (just like I do).

As I stated before, it has been over four years since I read this book, so please forgive any misspellings of the villian's name.

By the way, for those of you who are interested, Madison, who just turned two, already brings me stacks upon stacks of books every night to read before we go to be. I fear I have created a monster!

A Brilliant and Captivating tale...
"Redwall" is a thrilling piece of storytelling that has captured the hearts of fans around the world with its heart-pounding adventure, lovable characters and "hare"-breadth escapes. The amazing descriptive elements help bring the written word to life.

Fantasy has rarely had the warm, inviting feel of the Redwall series, especially this fabulous first enstallment. Its mystery,intrigue, and conundrums to unravel, as well as its twists of fate, assure that it will go down as a classic.

Matthias is a young novice mouse of the Redwall order, a rather clumsy creature, who has left every mouse in the Abbey wondering what his destiny will be. After the celebration of their Abbot's Golden Jubilee, a large horde of rats is discovered roaming the land in a horse-cart, lead by an usually large rat with one eye...

The characters in Redwall are all animals, such as those native to England (rats, mice, badgers, squirrels, foxes, and so on). The distinction between the protagonists and antagonists, and the differences in each creature's "personality" (not to mention their differences in accents and dialects!) add to the enjoyment. "Redwall" is uniquely fullfilling. This is the beginning of a long journey enjoyed by people of all ages. Redwall has grown to be one of my personal favorites, as have all the Redwall books, and will surely become a favorite of any enthusiastic reader.

great book!
I read this book based on an enthusiastic recommendation. And I am so glad I did. I'm now a happy fan of Brian Jacques and the entire Redwall series.

The story moves along very nicely, with good editing and excellent characters. I found myself reading late into the night just to see what happens to them and how it ends. The only warning I have is to be prepared to be hungry! The feasts are described in wonderful detail with great imagery and colorful conversations. It's very reminiscent of holiday gatherings and family dinners from childhood.

This book impressed me. I know it was written for children, but it absolutely does not read like one. I can see why younger readers would enjoy it, but adults will love it too. It would be a great book to read aloud or just keep it to yourself.

Enjoy!

A DELIGHTFULLY ENCHANTING MOUSE TALE!!!
I'ts been a long while since a book has given me such absolute pleasure as this remarkable little adventure (ah-hem) tale about a novice mouse hoping to become a brother of the Redwall Abbey in Mossflower woods. Instead he becomes the Abbey champion when he leads the fight against Cluny The Scourge: a particularly foul, one-eyed rat that threatens the peace and safety of Redwall and the surrounding countryside. This is a classic fantasy novel in the tradition of Tolkien and C.S. Lewis with a host of unforgettable characters (and loads of violent confrontations that could scare younger children). Jacques' prose is delicious to devour and highly recommended to anyone who doesn't enjoy reading: a fact that whets one's appetite for the next entry in the series. HARSH LANGUAGE: about 6 words, VIOLENCE: about 40 scenes, SEXUAL REFERENCES: none.

The Guerilla Union of Shrews! (Read the book to figure out)
Fans of Watership Down and heroic tales of battles and quests will be intrigued with the unique world of personified animals that Brian Jacques has created. Bizarre but equally entrancing, Redwall will captivate readers and keep them prisoner until the very end. The book opens with a description of Redwall Abbey which is owned by an order of monk-like mice and an introduction to Matthias, a clumsy, awkward, "brother-in-training." Matthias, Father Abbot, and the other brothers have lived in relative peace for many long years, providing shelter and care to local woodland residents and all those in need. This humble but satisfying way of life is threatened one summer night when Matthias first lays eyes upon the legendary warlord, Cluny the Scourge, and his horde of rats ready to plunder and pillage. Where these villainous rats have come from is unknown but it is quite clear that Cluny has his one eye set upon claiming Redwall as his stronghold. All that stands between the death and destruction of the entire Mossflower region is the monastery brothers and sisters. Now these practitioners of mercy, healing, and love must become skilled defenders of their home.

Young Matthias experiences a tremendous transformation from an orphaned immature mouse to a natural born leader and developing warrior. To save Redwall from its invaders he embarks on a quest to find the lost sword of Martin the Warrior, a founder of their abbey. During his search he discovers his past and destiny, learning valuable lessons of life, honor, and what truly lies in a warrior's heart along the way. Join the mice and their companions as they encounter new friends and enemies during their struggle with the terrible Cluny the Scourge. Redwall is a strangely imaginative and enchanting story that will change your views on furry rodents forever. ... Read more

Book Description

Unabridged BBC Dramatization of the abridged The Lord of the Rings
Thirteen CDs, 13 hours

In ancient times the Rings of Power were crafted by the Elven-smiths, and Sauron, The Dark Lord, forged the One Ring, filling it with his own power so that he could rule all others. But the One Ring was taken from him, and though he sought it throughout Middle-earth, it remained lost to him. After many ages it fell, by chance, into the hands of the hobbit, Bilbo Baggins.

From his fastness in the Dark Tower of Mordor, Sauron's power spread far and wide. He gathered all the Great Rings to him, but ever he searched far and wide for the One Ring that would complete his dominion.

On his eleventy-first birthday Bilbo disappeared, bequeathing to his young cousin Frodo the Ruling Ring and a perilous quest -- to journey across Middle-earth, deep into the shadow of the Dark Lord, and destroy the Ring by casting it into the Cracks of Doom.

The Lord of the Rings tells of the great quest undertaken by Frodo and the Fellowship of the Ring: Gandalf the Wizard, the hobbits Merry, Pippin, and Sam, Gimli the Dwarf, Legolas the Elf, Boromir of Gondor, and a tall, mysterious stranger called Strider.

This outstanding BBC radio version of "The Lord of the Rings" includes Ian Holm as Frodo, Michael Hordern as Gandalf, Robert Stephens as Aragorn, and John Le Mesurier as Bilbo. ... Read more

Reviews (108)

A superb dramatisation on CD at last !
I bought the audio-cassette edition of this years ago, before the days of CD and online shopping, and I've long been hoping that it would one day be released on CD. It really is a magnificent achievement - the thought, planning, respect and sheer professionalism that have gone into creating this is simply remarkable. What a contrast to the execrable Mind's Eye edition ! The BBC version is not a complete reading of the book, but rather a (judiciously) abridged and compact dramatisation. Having said that, it's still very long. It's like listening to a really good, long (13 hours!) film of LOTR with your eyes closed. The atmosphere and feeling of the book has been captured wonderfully, with great, stirring performances from internationally-known and respected actors like Ian Holm, Michael Horden and Robert Stephens. The music and songs are haunting and dramatic, and the sound effects are so authentic that you really feel like you're there with the Company on its quest to destroy the ring. Even the packaging is of the highest quality, another thing the people that made the Mind's Eye version should take note of. The CDs come in a very nicely designed box with artwork, maps, and other information. Quite a few people have been asking which CD edition to buy - if you want an amateurish, cartoon-style version this isn't for you. If, however, you are looking for excitement, intelligence, humour, a sense of wonder, and faithfulness to the spirit of Tolkien's masterpiece, then the BBC edition shouldn't disappoint.

Yes! You should hear this, even if you've seen the movie!
I have owned a copy of this remarkable BBC radio dramatization of the Lord of the Rings for probably 15 years, and still remember its appearance on National Public Radio over twenty years ago. I read the books thirty years ago. I have loved the movies.

I feel I'm qualified to answer the question: "Is hearing this worth it?" "Do I really need to own this?"

You need this. The books are wonderful (and unlike all other versions are of course "unabridged"). However, how often can you read them? The movies are wonderful, however again how often can you find the time to commit to watch them. Plus, everything is "invisioned" for you. This is a work of imagination! Shouldn't you use your own imagination?
This radio drama sits in the pleasant middle ground. You can use your mind to see what your ears hear. This is a portable experience, you can take it with you, and multi-task while you're experiencing it.

Artistically, this production is as wonderful as the movie production, and has a more quiet charm. You have high quality actors in top form (Michael Hordern, Robert Stephans, Ian Holm to name a few). You have quieter music (chamber strings and harp mostly) You have more of Tolkien's own lyrics and poetry. You also have more of Tolkien's original plot, the Scouring of the Shire is not in the movie.

I will restate what other reviews have said: "Stay away from the Mind's Eye version!" Unfortunately, only the BBC really knows how to turn out high quality, aurally detailed radio drama. (Well, so does ZBS media, but that's another story.)

Great,But " Unabridged'?
I have been a fan Of The Lord Of The Rings for 25 years( I read the Hobbit and Trilogy 3 times in College and re-read it all again last year when I heard about the movies, I also have the box set that sells here (price)) and this is my first audio book of any type. This is a BBC dramitization( this is what is "UNABRIDGED") not a word for word reading of the novels. After getting use to listening to the dramatic acting style involved in this I found it very enjoyable. It does not contain everthing in the trilogy. It does, I here the movies coming out do also, leave out Tom Bombadil and the Barrowdowns section and other smaller parts of the books.I did have a good time listening to it. I took almost two weeks, primarily in the car driving to work and around town and it looks good on the bookcase. Ian Holm doesn't read it, he plays Frodo. It will be interesting to see how he plays Bilbo differently in the movies. There are another dozen or so main actors in it and a narrator.

Superb Audio Adaptation of Tolkien's Classic
I admit it. I'm a Tolkien addict. I've read the LOTR books at least 4 times, seen all the Peter Jackson films, and I have listened to this radio adaptation more times than I can count. In fact, as good as the films are (and they are, for the most part, very good) this radio version is in many ways superior. True enough, it lacks the stunning visuals of Jackson's films, but this leaves listeners free to imagine the fantastic creatures and landscapes of Middle Earth for themselves--to create theater for the mind.

One of the many strengths of this production is its extended running time--13 1-hour episodes for the radio series versus three 3-hour movies. This allows for greater character development and, more importantly, greater fidelity to what Tolkien actually wrote. The producers rearrange, compress, and eliminate certain events to make for a smoother narrative flow on radio, but they do not omit anything essential to the plot and, unlike Jackson, they DO NOT add anything to the book. Jackson adds an extended bloody battle with Wargs and a dream sequence to "The Two Towers" that are not in the original. As a result, he has to change the ending of the film, and, in my opinion, lessens its emotional impact. The producers of the radio version wisely avoid this kind of tinkering.

The producers of the radio version use more of Tolkien's original dialogue, which has a much higher and more exalted sound to it than most of Jackson's phrases. Ian Holm's radio Frodo is much more robust than Elijah Wood's film version, seeming to discover a nobility and courage that not even he knew he had. Wood's responses to crises for Frodo seem to be limited to screaming, passing out, and falling on his backside. The radio version treats Merry (Richard O'Callaghan) and Pippin (John McAndrew) with the respect and affection they deserve, rather than simply using them for comic relief, as Jackson seems to do. Other standout cast members in the radio production include William Nighy as Sam and Peter Woodthorpe as Gollum, both superior to Sean Astin and Andy Serkis, their film counterparts. Michael Hordern gives Ian McKellen a run for his money as the radio voice of Gandalf. Only Robert Stephens, the radio voice of Aragorn, comes up short compared to the movie's Viggo Mortensen. Unlike the movie's conflicted and self-doubting Aragorn, Tolkien and the radio version portray Strider as absolutely sure of his identity and destiny, and give him an air of supreme self-confidence. Unfortunately in Stephens's performance, what is meant to sound like regal self-assurance and a kingly air of command come out dangerously close to pomposity and arrogance. Mortensen's more restrained, quiet Aragorn who rises to greatness as a result of his trials, is a welcome improvement.

In short, if you want a real Tolkien experience, read the books, listen to this audio version, and see the movies, in that order. You can listen to the audio version while doing the dishes or driving to work. Doing those things while reading the book or watching the movie could be dangerous :-).

a Herculean task, somewhat disappointing
I would first like to say that it was a wonderful idea for the BBC to make a radio production out of LOTR, and to hire a cast of well-respected actors to get the job done. This collection earns a star for even coming into being. Unfortunately, the task of bringing out one of the greatest stories of our age carries high expectations with it, and judged by those expectations, the BBC Radio LOTR falls short.
It's a joy to hear the whole story told with much less concern for time and compression than usual-- as 13 hours of total CD length suggest. The previous best LOTR effort in any medium, Ralph Bakshi's movie, stopped halfway through the story at 2 and a half hours, which any fan of LOTR knows is woefully inadequate. A great casting move was snatching Peter Woodthorpe, the voice of Gollum in Bakshi's film, to play the same role here. Woodthorpe is superior to Andy Serkis (Gollum in Peter Jackson's LOTR films)in his tortured characterization of the Ring's greatest slave. Elements of backstory are nicely woven into the tale, like Gollum's capture by Sauron's agents in Mordor. The sound production is also well done-- the listener gets a definite sense of what is going on in the foreground as opposed to the background, for example, and the strings in the score add a welcome mournful element to the progression of the story. The tale itself is of course excellent-- it's difficult to truly fail to be at all entertaining when your task is to retell the Lord of the Rings.
But I have many criticisms to consider-- ones that make the BBC LOTR a 2 star effort beyond its foundations. For one, it may be 13 hours, but this is still spare compared with how long it takes to read the story aloud from the book. (over 100 hours as far as I can tell through experience) This is forgivable in a medium like film, which demands that people sit and pay attention for hours on end at one sitting, but is tough to excuse in a radio show that consists of one hour installments. Why not tell the whole thing, simply broken into more 'episodes'? I don't understand this aversion to doing it right-- Lord of the Rings has a large and rabid enough following that any effort to tell the story in more detail is one of the few sure successes in show business. This edition omits the Barrow Wights, Tom Bombadil, and a few other notable, important events for absolutely no good reason.
The flow of the story also has problems. One of the greatest elements of the Lord of the Rings series is Tolkien's beautiful descriptive language. Every region of Middle Earth is brought to life in amazing fashion as you read. The makers of this edition inexplicably saw fit to keep text narrative to a minimum, and leave the description to stilted and awkward lines spouted by the characters. Example: "As I lie here, I realize that these orc arrows have paid me for my treachery." This is doubly bad, because one of the few weak points in the books is the dialogue, which can get heavy-handed and too grandiose. Therefore, the BBC has removed a great asset and saddled a weaker aspect of the story with even greater clumsiness.
The dialogue is a problem in general. I expected more from these actors, who all seem to be overdoing their lines. Perhaps they feel out of place without cameras able to capture their mannerisms, but in any case they try to make up for the lack of visual element by overacting. Many of the lines, even simple back-and-forth between the characters, are read like grand and important pronouncements from a scroll. Although the times are dangerous and the task of destroying the Ring is the greatest of their age, I don't think Tolkien thought of these characters as heroic automatons cognizant of the fact that their every word is important for future generations. It would have been much more convincing and enjoyable if these actors had read the characters as real people doing the best they can under very tough circumstances. There is no sense of the pressure on them, of their longing for simple contentment, of real pain or joy that a listener could identify with. It's all sterile, booming proclamations-- like something out of the Iliad. Try to imagine any of these characters waking up with a hangover and wondering what's for breakfast: you won't be able to. Even the excellent Woodthorpe, who gave a measured performance in Bakshi's LOTR, hams up the snivelling and gibbering of Gollum a bit. No matter what fame LOTR has risen to, it is first and foremost a story--not every line has to be played like another piece of a grand and timeless composition.
Gandalf is particularly disappointing. One of the most entertaining aspects of his character in the books is his world-weary and cranky edge. He is down to earth in a way that makes him the wisest of his Order and his other important colleagues, yet here he especially is prone to making every line a grave intonation, and to read as if he is a prophet of pity and doom. The listener is left to wonder: how did such a solemn and unapproachable sage befriend these ale-swilling and relaxed hobbits? Aside from these flaws, several of the minor voice characterizations are simply awful-- the orcs, for example, sound like groups of drunken English barflies, rather than the twisted and vicious psychopaths that they are.
Diehard Tolkien fans will undoubtedly want this as a piece of their collection, but personally I hope someday we receive a better effort at a radio reading. ... Read more

Book Description

This Magic Tree House set including the following titles:

Night of the Ninjas (Magic Tree House, No. 5)
Afternoon on the Amazon (Magic Tree House, No. 6)
Sunset of the Sabertooth (Magic Tree House, No. 7)
Midnight on the Moon. (Magic Tree House, No. 8) ... Read more

Reviews (2)

A pleased parent
I cannot believe how my son is reading! I bought him the first 8 books for Christmas and by New Years he had read all but one - on his own! He'd rather books than movies!

Afternoon on the Amazon - book #6
Meet Jack and Annie. Jack is an eight year old boy who seeks adventure. In every trip, Jack takes notes to learn more interesting facts. He carries his little backpack almost everywhere with his useful supplies inside. Annie is Jack's little sister. Annie is just one year younger than Jack. These two siblings have great times together in many different places. Annie is a sweet, honest, considerate girl who looks up to Jack.

Jack and Annie go lots of places, in lots of different times, helping others in their time, in the present and in the past. For example, in another book, in the same series (Magic Tree House Series) I read a book about Jack and Annie with George Washington! That was a long time ago!

Afternoon on the Amazon is an exciting book about Jack and Annie who try to help Morgan le Fay by finding four special things. (Everything they find starts with "M".) In the tree house, every time, they climb up the ladder, look for their trusty friend, Peanut the mouse, and point to a picture in a book while wishing to go there. The tree house starts to spin, spin, and spin faster until they appear in a tree in the place they wish to go. In the rain forest, Jack and Annie have trouble with the following animals: a mother cheetah, a crocodile, a monkey, an army of ants, piranhas and a snake. But in the end, Jack and Annie find out that the animals were just being themselves, with the monkey just trying to be helpful.

My favorite part of the book is when Jack is trying to stop their boat, and he accidentally snatched a snake. It really shakes up the story. Jack and Annie try to push the boat fast and duck their heads. They safely escaped, scared to death!

This is a very exciting book. In every book (from the Magic Tree House series) behind the cover, it says good things about the author and her books. By reading her books you can see if you think these words are right. I personally think this book matches what the people say. I recommend Mary Pope Osborne's books to everyone! ... Read more

Book Description

Have you got your wits about you?

JK Rowling challenged her fans to use their wits, and now her fans have responded. She's dribbled clues through her interviews, website, and of course the books. Where are the hints and how should we interpret them?

If you're tired of chewing on your quill alone, pondering the possibilities, then join 53 fans from 10 countries, as they investigate cauldronfuls of sly clues, shedding new light on the mysteries hiding within JK Rowling’s pages. Her bubbling brew of characters is becoming thick with suspects:

* What's up with Aunt Petunia?
* Is Gilderoy permanently disabled?
* Is Percy really a git?
* Where is Gran Longbottom’s allegiance?
* How does time travel work?
* Is there still something odd with Mad-Eye?
* Whose side is Snape on?

Through the magic of the Internet community, our authors have been brought together from the Mighty MuggleNet "Chamber of Secrets" and "New Clues" forums to discuss the clues and hints in the Harry Potter septology. Transfigured from Internet posters to new authors, they have written The Plot Thickens...Harry Potter Investigated by Fans for Fans brimming with new thoughts and theories on what may be one of the best-loved literary epics of all time. Just like Wizarding World Press's Ultimate Unofficial Guide to the Mysteries of Harry Potter this new book can be a great starting point for those fans who wish to examine the series in depth.

As the plot begins to truly thicken, these author-sleuths have conjured a collection of discussions, character analyses, and theories that will hook up your fireplace flue to the busiest Brain Room outside of the Department of Mysteries. Read fascinating scrolls that delve below the surface of over 60 topics, and peer ahead to what is yet to come. Share in the bouts of speculation. Investigate with your fellow fans as they weave together the threads of this mystery...worry with them over what tragedies still await our beloved Harry.

Wizarding World Press invites you to come, join our discussion, as from one fan to another we respond to JK Rowling's challenge by using our wits to decipher this great mystery. Here is a unique, fun book, and a unique opportunity to experience the magic.

Note: Major spoilers included! Do not read this unless you have read all five Harry Potter books. The Plot Thickens...Harry Potter Investigated by Fans for Fans is a collection of articles by international authors--it is not the Ultimate Unofficial Guide to Book 5. ... Read more

Book Description

The Magic Tree House whisks Jack and Annie back to the eve of the first Thanksgiving. There they meet the Pilgrims as well as Squanto, a Native American who helped them. The story offers an age-appropriate, in-depth picture of what life was really like for early settlers, as well as the usual Magic Tree House adventure and excitement. ... Read more

Reviews (6)

Make History Fun!
This book allows children to experience another time and place. This is an excellent supplement to the elementary curriculum. This book is easy to read and makes learning about history, fun. This book will teach children about a way of life that they are unfamiliar with. Students will learn how people back then dressed, how they hunted and prepared food, and how they worked together as a community. Children will learn more than just history from this book. This book emphasizes the value of others and of working together. This book will also get children excited about reading and it will also encourage them to write and to keep their own personal journal of adventures. This book is an excellent teaching resource.

Great Classroom Read Aloud
My 1st graders loved this book. The text allows the child to form mental images of what the very first Thanksgiving was like. The class is looking forward to "Christmas in Camelot" as our next read aloud chapter book.

Better books about Thanksgiving available
The Magic Treehouse books are great for young readers to read independently. After they're done with one, they usually can't wait for the next. Unfortunately, the first Thanksgiving feast is treated in a rather superficial way. If you're just looking for another MT book, fine, go ahead and buy this...

why oh why do we lie
is there some reason for the perpetuation of stereotypes? the story of squanto, the helpful noble savage. the story of indians selling their land for $24 in beads. does anyone really look into the validity behind these tales? since history books teach our young children enough lies about colonialism and the indigenous people in the Americas it is the duty of the parents to help stop these sometimes hurtful myths. do your kid a favor and quit lying to them about history. learn the truth.

GREAT BOOK!
I like this book very much. Jack and Annie are whisked back to the first Thanksgiving in 1621. But they failed to catch eels and clams and burnt Priscilla's Thanksgiving turkey when Jack dropped it into the fire. They found the magic of community, however, in spite of everything.
Read more Magic Tree House books! "High Tide in Hawaii" is coming soon! ... Read more

Amazon.com

"Faster than a speeding waistband... more powerful than boxer shorts..."It's Captain Underpants! Young readers will devour this fancy new boxed set ofthe first five paperbacks in the side-splitting, potty-humored (literally)Captain Underpants series. These books are award-winning--but really, who caresabout awards when you're reading about talking toilets and the perilous plot ofProfessor Poopypants? The "epic" collection includes The Adventures of CaptainUnderpants, CaptainUnderpants and the Attack of the Talking Toilets, Captain Underpants and the Invasion ofthe Incredibly Naughty Cafeteria Ladies from Outer Space, Captain Underpants and the PerilousPlot of Professor Poopypants, and Captain Underpants and the Wrath of theWicked Wedgie Woman. (Ages 5 to 12) ... Read more

Reviews (18)

My Son LOVED These Books!!!!
I have a 7 year old son who really only read when he was required to do so for school.
That was until he started reading the Captain Underpants books. HE LOVES THEM!!!! When he was told it was time to go to bed he said "can't I just stay up until I finish this book". The next morning the first thing he did was pick up the book and finished it.
Your kids (boys especially) will get a kick out of these books.
It is so great to hear your kids reading a book and laughing OUTLOUD!!!

Nevermind Harry Potter, Captain Underpants RULES!
Captain Underpants has been a blessing! My son would not read regardless of the title of the book. Until Captain Underpants! All boys love toilet humor! My only regret is that there are not more Captain Underpants books out yet. Dav Pilkey keep them coming!

MR. booger boy
Captain underpants and the big bad battle of the bionic booger boy part 1: the night of the nasty nostril nuggets is one of Dav's best books of the captain underpants series. My favorite character is Harold he's funnier and braver when the fighting the booger boy. My favorite part is when booger boy is snot bad and senses all over the teacher Mrs. Ribble she didn't seem to mind. Have a good laugh with this book its fun

These books are laugh-out-loud funny!
George Beard and Harold Hutchins have a little problem; they just can't help being themselves. And being themselves means pulling pranks at school, writing comic books that make fun of authority figures, and changing the lunch menu marquee to make rude comments.

Captain Underpants is a super-hero they made up in one of their comic books. Through a series of so-ridiculous-no-one-could-believe-it events, their school principal BECOMES Captain Underpants, and it's up to these two class clowns to make sure CU doesn't endanger himself. Incredibly bad puns abound. Each book has a copy of one of the boys' "Treehouse Comics." And there are plenty of gross jokes that grade-school kids love.

This is the sort of book that will get kids to read even if they otherwise hate reading. Enjoy!

I can' wait to get it
I can't wait to get this collection.These books are the best books ever I'm on the fourth book, but I've read the rest of the books though. I can't wait for the next book. I have a friend that likes these books. I wish they made some games,toys,and a show. Lots of boys like this book at my school. If you like crazy books then you should buy these books. But you should buy them at amazon.com. ... Read more

Book Description

Jack and Annie set off to find an original copy of an ancient Chinese myth.

Armed only with their magic library cards, they must take on a book-burning

emperor. But with the help of a scholar and a silk weaver, they triumph again.




... Read more

Reviews (20)

It was one of the best books I have ever read!
I like the part when the soldiers shoot arrows at Jack and Annie. I liked it when they wished to go to China. I like each book being different.

China here we come!
Jack and Annie are going to China to save an ancent ledgend. An extreamly powerful emperer gives an order to burn all the books in China. Will Jack and Annie save the legend or will it be burned into ashes. Find out when you read Day of the Dragon king. Jack Alway sticks to his reserch Something is interestering. Annie is brave but does stupid things. I would recomend this book because it is educational.

Its OK
I kind of liked this book but i read it in 3rd grade. My mom said i should read bigger books so i think its for younger kids not third and forth graders. They are great chidren fantisy book and so are the other books in the series. They keept my attention for a long time.

Not too scary
I like that in every Magic Treehouse book you meet some good and some bad people. This book is not as scary as some Magic Treehouse books. There's only two scary parts. I think that the author doesn't tell you everything about the characters that Jack and Annie leave behind. It leaves a sort of happy surprise at the end.

China here we come
Jack and Annie have gone to china to save an ancient legend. An extreamly powerful emperor (The Dragon King) gives an order to burn all the books in China. Will jack and Annie save the legend or will it be burned into ashes? You will find out when you read Day of the Dragon King. Jack-always sticks to his reserch book when they are in trouble or when they see or find something interesting. Annie-is a brave girl but sometimes she does extreamliy stupid things. The Dragon KING-The Dragon King Made a BIG mistake when he ordered for all the books in china to be burned. I would recomend this book because it has alot of really funny parts in it. ... Read more

Book Description

Jack and Annie are off on another adventure! This time they are sent to

ancient Greece, where a very important event is taking place. Join them as they

race against time and witness the very first Olympic games!




... Read more

Reviews (10)

Take An Hour And Read This Book
The book you are going to read about is called Hour of the Olympics. Mary Pope Osborne wrote it and she is a great writer. This story is about the first Olympic game. The two main characters are named Jack and Annie. This book comes from a series of books, so this is only one adventure. The problem in this story is that Jack and Annie are at the first Olympics and no girls are allowed. Annie sneaks in and gets caught. Can Jack get her out of this mess? To find out you will have to read Hour of the Olympics.

Hour of BOREDOM
I did not like this book because it had the most boring mysteries I have ever read.Like most boring books,the kids go somewhere, find what there looking for and, in the case of this book, fly back on a horse with wings.They say boring things along the lines of "how did you learn to read and write?My opinion is that it is a very boring book.

Fantastic in more ways than imaginable
"Hour Of The Olympics" is good because of the ways you learn about the Olympics, and the Olympic events, plus the legend of Pegasus, the flying horse. So amazing, I almost applauded so loud my neighborhood could hear me! Trust me, you can't miss out on this one.

Fantastic in more ways than imaginable
"Hour Of The Olympics" is good because of the ways you learn about the Olympics, and the Olympic events, plus the legend of Pegasus, the flying horse. So amazing, I almost applauded so loud my neighborhood could hear me. Trust me, you can't miss out on this one.

Magic Tree House #16: Hour of the Olympics
Magic Tree House is the Harry Potter for the ages 6-9 crowd. The stories are always delightful, and they always have action in it. This is a very good book. I recommend to all kids from the ages 6-9. Kids younger than that can have parents read it to them. ... Read more

Amazon.com

To commemorate the 100th anniversary of the publication of L. FrankBaum's The Wizard of Oz,master paper engineer Robert Sabuda has created a pop-up version of Dorothy'sadventures in Oz that fans will find hard to resist. Modeling his depictions ofDorothy, the Scarecrow, the Tin Woodman, and the rest after W. W. Denslow'soriginal art, Sabuda adds a third dimension that would have rockedDenslow's--and Baum's--world. A rapidly spinning cyclone actually casts a breezeover the startled reader's face. Glorious red poppies wave seductively in afield. And the Emerald City positively glitters with green, especially whenyoung readers try on the special tinted "Spectacles for You" provided in apocket on the page. The abridged text, provided in minibooklets set onto eachpage, covers enough basics for the Oz novice, but we recommend a read-aloud ofthe original, as well, for all the glory and detail of Baum's fantastic tale.Sabuda's homage to the classic is truly spectacular; even purists will gasp indelight at the sight of the humbug wizard floating away in his shiny green,gold, and blue hot-air balloon. This great introduction to the story of Ozdoubles as a fun collector's item. (Ages 3 to 7) --Emilie Coulter ... Read more

Reviews (60)

There's no place like a Robert Sabuda pop-up!
I just have to disagree with the folks who say this is not a book for children...this is THE book for children! If you are looking for a book to give this holiday season that rates 100% on the "oooh-ahhhh!" meter, this is the one. Any child, in particular a reluctant reader, will be dazzled and fascinated by the Emerald City jumping to life in the middle of the book, the whirling balloon and spinning tornado. The artwork warrants accolades even without the magnificent engineering, and there is enough text to make this pop-up perfect for older kids as well. This book does great honor to the Wonderful Wizard, and will be as treasured in your home as a pair of ruby slippers. Whether or not this book actually survives the twister of children's handling, you'd be a real wicked witch not to share it with your favorite munchkin.

"Magical experience"
I collect children's books that are "special" and added this book to my collection as one of my favorites! The experience of looking through the pop-ups can only be described as a "magical experience". The illustrations are done in a nostalgic format with vivid colors. The first page really grabbed me...when you open it up a tornato rises up in a whirling motion and goes completely off of the page. There is fine detail (look under the house in "Munchkinland" and you will actually see the wicked witches feet underneath). Emerald City pops up and actually glitters before your eyes (you would swear it was really made of emeralds)! Oz's hot air balloon rises out of one page and spins in suspension. This is more of a collector book and I would not recommend putting it in the hands of a young child to do with as he/she pleases! It is just too beautiful! But, you would definately have fun viewing/reading the book to a young child...and a child of seven or eight would probably be old enough to care for it! There are also several small pop-ups within the sections you open up and read that are quite charming! There is quite alot of story to read within small sections of the pages, or within flaps that open up. But; if you are a collector of "Oz" memorabilia, or love creative pop-up books... this book would be a great addition to your family!

Spectacular Pop-Ups Illustrate A Timeless Classic!
Robert Sabuda is one of my favorite illustrators and certainly the most renowned pop-up book artist and paper engineer working today. Combine Sabuda's entrancing three dimensional illustrations with Frank Baum's glorious story about Dorothy, the Tin Woodman, the Scarecrow, Cowardly Lion, Toto and their amazing adventures in the Land of Oz and you have pure magic!

The pop-up illustrations are quite intricate, with artwork that's faithful to W. W. Denslow's original illustrations. Sabuda works in a fresh, new style here using prints made from cut linoleum blocks. He brings the drawings to life in a way that will enchant children and adults alike. Each page contains a large pop-up and a small booklet which tells part of the story. And each mini-book contains small pop-ups too. There's a cyclone that really twists, a wizard's balloon that sails into the sky, holographic foil creates a true, sparkling Emerald City made even greener with the included green glasses for the reader

The text is slightly abridged so I would suggest that true "Wizard of Oz" fans include an unabridged copy in their library. I recently bought a copy for my cousin's little girl. She calls it her "magic book" and can't seem to put it down. This very special edition, published to commemorate the book's 100th Anniversary, is well worth the price and will surely find a place of honor on your bookshelf. It is spectacular!
JANA

WOW!
This is impressive! Something really great for Wizard of Oz enthusiasts to keep for years. Don't buy it intending it for small children to handle independently, though. The amazing detail is somewhat fragile. But don't be afraid to get it and hang onto it until they're old enough to be careful with it. It's really incredible!

The Best Pop up book ever!
Hey buy this one for your young friends and read it with them and share the 3-D glasses! Its wonderful you gotta see it to belive it! I am one happy reader!! ... Read more

Amazon.com

My Father's Dragon--a favorite of young readers since the 1940s and a Newbery honor book--captures the nonsensical logic of childhood in an amusingly deadpan fashion. The story begins when Elmer Elevator (the narrator's father as a boy) runs away with an old alley cat to rescue a flying baby dragon being exploited on a faraway island. With the help of two dozen pink lollipops, rubber bands, chewing gum, and a fine-toothed comb, Elmer disarms the fiercest of beasts on Wild Island. The quirky, comical adventure ends with a heroic denouement: the freeing of the dragon. Abundant black-and-white lithographs by Ruth Chrisman Gannett (the author's stepmother) add an evocative, lighthearted mood to an already enchanting story. Author Ruth Stiles Gannett's stand-alone sequel, Elmer and the Dragon, and her third volume, The Dragons of Blueland both received starred reviews in School Library Journal and are as fresh and original as her first. (Ages 4 to 8) ... Read more

Reviews (25)

A favorite read aloud book!
These three adventurous tales by Ruth Gannett kept my 5 year old son spellbound night after night--he continually begged me to read "just one more chapter!" and we are almost finished with our second time reading it. The trilogy begins with the main character, Elmer Elevator, venturing away from home to save a baby dragon from being abused by the animals of Wild Island. What follows are a series of Elmer's and the baby dragon's exciting adventures. This is a great read aloud book for ages 5-9!

Outstanding read-aloud book, very clever story
Much like Harvey Potter's Balloon Farm, the My Father's Dragon trilogy is a fun read, and has a mixture of absurdity and humor that appeals on multiple levels. It's an easy read to a toddler, with several pictures throughout, and journey maps on the inner covers.

Since the chapters are short, you can do two or three a night without losing continuity. At the same time, the story has enough depth and cleverness that the parent can remain engaged. Thus, it's a catalyst for bonding.

One of the things that makes it special is the main character. Elmer Elevator, on the advice of a stray cat, starts out on a noble odyssey to free a baby dragon from its animal tormentors. In his preparation, Elmer packs dozens of seemingly useless items, including a magnifying glass, brush, sandwiches, and lollipops. While he travels across Wild Island, all these items become essential, and you wonder if the story was being told by MacGyver :-)

We've read the trilogy to completion five times and it's still a hit with everyone.

Delightful Surprise
I was browsing the list of audiocassettes and happened across "Three Tales of My Father's Dragon." I read the other reviews and decided to buy it for my son (who is 4). We absolutely fell in love with all three stories! We listen to it ALL the time! We leave one cassette in the house to listen to at night and one in the car. We have had the tapes for two months and have not tired of listening to them. My son just laughs and loves all the aspects of these stories. The acting of all the characters is so vibrant and you quickly realize that each character has his own distinct personality and voice! I would HIGHLY reccomend these stories! They are fantastic!

My Fathers Dragon
My Fathers dragon written by R.S.G, may be the best book ever! Elmer is a boy who lives in Evergreen city. One day he meets a cat who tells him about a Dragon .The was trapped on Wild Island and Elmer goes to save him, On the way he tricks a lot of animals. One of them was when he gives lollipops to crocodiles to make a bridge. Does he save the dragon? Read this book to find out!

I love this book and recommend it to anyone who likes to imagine, loves excitement, adventure and danger! It's celebrating 50 years in print, I think it is perfect the way it is! With this book you can experience the magic!

Dragons and Adventure - What Kid Wouldn't Love it?
This volume is the complete set of tales about Elmer and his friend the dragon, including the fun illustrations. The complete set includes "My Father's Dragon," "Elmer and the Dragon," and "The Dragons of Blueland."

These stories are perfect first chapter books for kids. The vocabulary is simple and the chapters are short. I'd forgotten just how short until I started rereading them. Yet the stories are packed full of adventure. Elmer is especially resourceful, and I still get a kick out of how he takes the simplest things and makes them work in whatever situation he finds himself.

Whether kids read these stories themselves or listen to them being read, they're sure to become favorites. And adults will enjoy the clever story lines as well. ... Read more

Amazon.com

My Father's Dragon--a favorite of young readers since the 1940s and a Newbery honor book--captures the nonsensical logic of childhood in an amusingly deadpan fashion. The story begins when Elmer Elevator (the narrator's father as a boy) runs away with an old alley cat to rescue a flying baby dragon being exploited on a faraway island. With the help of two dozen pink lollipops, rubber bands, chewing gum, and a fine-toothed comb, Elmer disarms the fiercest of beasts on Wild Island. The quirky, comical adventure ends with a heroic denouement: the freeing of the dragon. Abundant black-and-white lithographs by Ruth Chrisman Gannett (the author's stepmother) add an evocative, lighthearted mood to an already enchanting story. Author Ruth Stiles Gannett 's stand-alone sequel, Elmer and the Dragon, and her third volume, The Dragons of Blueland both received starred reviews in School Library Journal and are as fresh and original as her first. (Ages 4 to 8) ... Read more

Reviews (35)

My Father's Dragon
My Fathers Dragon is the first book out of a series of three. It is a fiction story about a kid named Elmer, who loves to go on adventures. One of his adventures is rescuing a baby dragon that has been captured by animals, and taken to Wild Island to be used as a way to get across the river there. Elmer hears this news from a stray ally cat that he finds one day, and decides he's going to run away and go to Wild Island to free this dragon. Elmer has to outsmart a bunch of animals to get to the dragon, but it's easy for him because he's really clever. I thought the book was very exciting and fun to read. It's the kind of book you don't want to put down and want to read it over and over again. I gave this book such a good rating because it was fun; I never got tired of it. It was a great book!!!! I would recommend it to anyone that likes thrilling and adventurous books. I liked this book because it was easy to understand, it's funny, and exciting. It's a fun book to read to your self, or to a little brother or sister. No matter how old you are you will always enjoy it. This book is ten chapters long with about 5 to 6 pages each chapter and the chapters are very easy to read. This book would be good for kids that are starting to read chapter books because the words in it are easy to understand and it has pictures in it and they are very detailed. Also in every book there is a detailed map showing where things are and where Elmer went and it's really fun to look at them. I had a great time reading the book.

an unexpected new favorite
I've been expecting my seven year old son to become, like the rest of the world, an addict of the Harry Potter books, but no dice.

Instead, he came home from his multi-age class rhapsodizing about a book I had never heard of...My Father's Dragon. And although I haven't read it (yet), I can tell you for sure what happens in the first five chapters, because my son tells us all with such verve and enthusiasim about the adventures that take place there! How the narrator's father gets out of the tigers, and builds a bridge with the crocodiles are two of his favorite parts, and the words "Bome Cack! Bome Cack!! have entered our vocabularies probably forever.

I think the three books in this series will be entering our household at Christmas time, and I can't wait to read th