This collection of poems by Tolkien is packed with imagination, beautiful illustrations and smooth storytelling. While some of the characters and creatures can be recognized from Tolkien’s Lord of the Rings, each story stands alone. With its wide range of themes and length, there’s something for everyone. The Oliphaunt describes a grey animal, whose name is suspiciously similar to the title. The poem Princess Mee tells the story of a beautiful young elf dancing on the water, fascinated by her reflection. And while less aesthetically pleasing than the former, The Stone Troll narrates a debate between a hungry troll and a reckless man. Lastly, if the phrase “the cow jumped over the moon” rings a bell, you’ll love The Man in the Moon Stayed up too Late, a humourous spin-off of the popular nursery rhyme.

Poem/Short fiction · United Kingdom · 1962