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The two volumes contained in this slipcase approach Tolkien's life from two different angles and provide an analysis of his work within the context of his life. The first volume includes brief but comprehensive introductions and notes on a wide range of topics and points the way, through discussion and bibliographies, to further reading. It includes a chronology and a Tolkien who's who, plus information on: Tolkien's sources; political and social events through which Tolkien lived; the importance of poetry in Tolkien's work; his special interests such as astronomy, botany and calligraphy; the breadth of his reading; the importance of clubs and groups in his social life; his religion; his service in the 1914-18 war; his tendency to rewrite; his interest in every aspect of his books (covers, illustrations, lettering); elements frequently found in his works - dragons, trees, etcetera; and the Tolkien cult and fan mail.