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Starlight and Trenches: The Platypus Reads Part LV

I've just finished reading John Garth's "Tolkien and the Great War," and the experience has been well worth it. Garth focuses on Tolkien's early life to a much greater degree than either Carpenter or Shippey and in so doing serves as a necessary corrective to both. In fact, Garth takes a few polite shots at Carpenter, and so presents us with a better picture of Tolkien's generosity and gregariousness. He also devotes a greater amount of time to analyzing the "Book of Lost Tales" and the origins of Tolkein's legendarium. Another bonus is the greater emphasis placed on Tolkien's pre-Inklings friendships and his relationship with Edith as formative influences on his work. All in all, I felt that "Tolkien and the Great War" actually advanced my understanding of Tolkien's writings and Tolkien the man. If you're a fan of Middle Earth, this one's well worth the read.
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