As an avid reader and lifelong fan of J.R.R. Tolkien, I was thrilled to dive into the specially designed Deluxe Pocket Boxed Set of The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings. This alluring collection promises to provide a deeply immersive experience into the vast world of Middle-earth, which has captivated audiences for decades. With the release of The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power Season 2 on Prime Video, this set felt like a timely invitation to return to the enchanting and perilous tales of hobbits, elves, and the Dark Lord Sauron.
First off, the presentation of the set is simply stunning. Housed in a leatherette-bound box with gold foil stamping, each of the four volumes features a similar luxurious finish that stands out beautifully on a bookshelf. The compact size of the books (4 1/4" x 5 7/8") makes them perfect for travel—easily stashing into a bag or backpack as I scurry off to a café or park. This was certainly echoed by many other readers, including those who highlighted the beautiful embossed covers and robust binding.
Inside, the text layout presents a mix of pleasing aesthetics and readability. Many have praised the Smyth sewn design, which allows the books to open easily and lie flat when open—an important feature for comfortable reading. Bryan Croteau mentioned in his review that the paper quality is thick and feels nice, something I wholeheartedly agree with. The two-color printing, black and green for The Hobbit and black and red for the LOTR volumes, adds a touch of elegance. Overall, the tactile experience of holding and reading these editions has been delightful.
However, as with any publication, there are trade-offs. One of the most notable drawbacks is the small print size. While I found it readable, I can empathize with those who have expressed concerns, like some older readers who noted they needed reading glasses for comfortable reading. After prolonged reading sessions, I experienced some eye strain, which is pretty common with any small-text books. The paper, although nice and not shiny, is also thinner than what you might find in larger editions, which could pose a challenge for people who prefer more substantial pages.
Readers have also commented on the overall weight, which, while manageable, might feel bulky to some given the collection’s compact dimensions. It’s essential to remember to account for these aspects if you’re considering adding this set to your personal library.
What I found most delightful, echoing sentiments from reviewers like Veronika Dzyadok, is the inclusion of several beautiful illustrations and detailed maps in the back of each book, specifically in The Return of the King. This inclusion creates a rich, engaging reading experience that allows readers to fully immerse themselves in Tolkien’s expansive world. As a newcomer to these stories, the depth offered in the appendices was particularly valuable in understanding the larger context and history of Middle-earth.
In the end, this Deluxe Pocket Boxed Set not only met my expectations; it enriched my appreciation for Tolkien’s work. The masterful storytelling, combined with the beautiful presentation, provides a unique and meaningful way to connect with the timeless adventure and complex characters in this literary classic.
If you’re considering a gift for a Tolkien fan or someone who appreciates exquisite books, this collection is worth every penny. The luxurious feel and the nostalgia packed into these volumes make it the perfect choice. Overall, I would highly recommend this set, though it’s wise to keep in mind the small print as it could be a limitation for some readers.
For anyone ready to embark on the journey of a lifetime in Middle-earth, give this set a chance. You might find that it feels like a new adventure waiting to be explored, whether you’re reading it for the first time or revisiting old favorites. Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.5/5).
Discover the enchanting adventures of Middle-earth in this exquisite deluxe boxed set. >>