Book Review: Return of the King by J.R.R. Tolkien

 



Return of the King - J.R.R. Tolkien - Book 3 in the Lord of the Rings trilogy

4.5 stars

What an epic conclusion to the Lord of the Rings trilogy. This book is a masterful conclusion to a story that has truly captured the hearts of so many - including myself. Tolkien truly had the best storytelling, world-building and character development in his stories and I see why this series is a favorite of many generations, one that people of all ages can enjoy.

We see Frodo and Sam's journey to Mount Doom with many emotions as they grapple with the weight of the ring and the toll it takes on their friendship and their very selves. Sam is a true hero in this story - we see how much he cared for Frodo as his friend and would do anything to keep him safe and finish the journey they set out to do. Specifically, the moment he says how he may not can carry the ring, but he can carry Frodo - my friend Lindsay noticed this was Christian allegory moment and I am so glad she mentioned this to me because I would have missed it. Context: Sam is carrying Frodo up Mount Doom in the final stages of their journey to destroy the One Ring, helping him to complete his mission, and carrying his burden as he struggles to fulfill his purpose - just as Jesus carries the struggling believer.

There are many Christ-like traits of characters in this series you will notice and I love that. Sam is the suffering servant and faithful companion. One website correlates Sam as a suffering Christ who loves his friends so passionately that he will never abandon them. I truly see this in Sam's character.

We also see the true corruption that the One Ring did to Gollum and was trying to do to Frodo throughout the story. This ring represents the evil or sin that lurks within all humans - those who come near it are lured by its power, promise -- and it can become an idol so easily to the person that carries it - and we see the true destruction it can do.

We also see Aragorn, the rightful king of Gondor, start to step into his destiny with honor and duty that is truly inspiring.

Middle Earth will always be my favorite fantasy world because it truly comes to life in vivid-detail with the grand cities of Minas Tirith and the Shire to the dark lands of Mordo and Mount Doom. Such an immersive world.

The only reason this wasn't a full 5 stars from me was because some of the parts with Sam and Frodo felt a bit long for me personally, and the Scouring of the Shire part was a bit randomly thrown in after they got back (glad that wasn't in the movies personally, that would have been oddly placed for the plot and ending).

Regardless, whether you are longtime fan of Middle Earth or someone new to the journey, this series is a must read and an all time favorite for me.


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