The Children of Hurin Summary and Reviews

The Children of Hurin
by J.R.R. Tolkien

The Children of Hurin
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Book Summary Information

Author: J.R.R. Tolkien
Editor: Christopher Tolkien
Edition: Paperback
Format: Bargain Price
Published: 2008-10-14
ISBN: N/A
Number of pages: 320
Publisher: Mariner Books

Book Reviews of The Children of Hurin

Book Review: A Dark Tale That Makes You Appreciate LOTR's Triumphs
Summary: 5 Stars

I should make it clear that this story is not a happy tale, and no doubt you've heard the same from others. But to simply call it that without going further does it a disservice. Although this may be a tragic story, throughout the narrative it remains clear that the main character at the outset, Turin son of Hurin, could very well have made different choices. Though Morgoth doomed him, Morgoth's power is not absolute, and even some of Turin's ill-fated choices have some positive consequences at given times. Even after dismal defeats Turin picks up his life and tries to move forward, and there is something very admirable about his determination and resilience despite his flaws (chiefly pride, arrogance, and quick anger).

As some reviewers have noted, one of the unique aspects of this book is its archaic language. Though some readers may find that this makes it that much harder to become engrossed in the characters, I found it enhanced my ability to empathize with them. This is because the archaic, epic style of the narrative breathes consequence into every paragraph, conversation, and decision the characters make. There is never any question in the story about the importance of what is at stake. In a similar way, the characters act intelligently and the flourished language gives special weight to their actions.

I would highly recommend this book, particularly to all who have read the LOTR. This is a book whose heartache and tragedy will let you go back and read the LOTR trilogy with that much more appreciation for the good that transpires from the efforts of four little hobbits, Gandalf, and many others. It also reaffirms the epic scope and breadth of Tolkien's world, if you ever doubted its immensity or depth in the first place.

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