This is one in a series of posts where the content is provided by a guest who has graciously answered five questions about their experience as a Tolkien fan.

To see the idea behind this project, or if you are interested in sharing your own, visit the project homepage. If you enjoy this series, please consider helping us fund the project using the support page.

I want to thank Donato Giancola for allowing me to use his artwork for this project. Prints are available on his website!

Now, on to Ulliowl’s responses:

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1. How were you introduced to Tolkien’s work?

The girl sitting next to me in homeroom was reading The Hobbit in 1963. Because I liked the cover, I bought it the next time I was at Borders.  I was immediately sucked into Tolkein’s world and over the next few months, bought The Lord of the Rings trilogy one book at a time.

In sophomore College English I wrote a research paper on the use of Elves in The Hobbit. I got a B+ on it.

2. What is your favorite part of Tolkien’s work?

The part where Pippin and Merry are waiting for the Ents decide their fates.

3. What is your fondest experience of Tolkien’s work?

Reading it to my children and some of them being as excited and involved as I.

4. Has the way you approach Tolkien’s work changed over time?

Yes, I no longer read the entire 4 books in a marathon of reading but pick and chose parts of them. Also, I have The Silmarillion and read parts of it.

Shortly after the Star Wars book “From a Certain Point of View” was released, I wrote about 4 short stories using the same format based on minor characters and their reactions or experiences.

5. Would you ever recommend Tolkien’s work? Why/Why not?

Yes, I recommend it to be read by everyone before they watch the movies. Like most books made into movies, they tried to capture the essence of the story but fail in so many ways.

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You can find Ulliowl on Twitter or their blog!