The Coolest Part of my Monday

The best part of my Monday (yes, a good thing about a Monday) was a mystery package! My mother told me that I received a package from Harper Collins. I did not remember waiting for anything from them, but I figured that either a) she read the envelope wrong or b) I have a bad memory. It really was a mystery. After reading the envelope and finding that it did in fact come from Harper Collins, I assumed that I just forgot about a book. So, I ripped open the envelope, unwrapped the brown paper, and I think I might have done a little sceam of joy! It was a surprise book afterall, and it was a book that I really wanted, so I am THRILLED! Want to know what it is?

The History of the Hobbit: Part One: Mr. Baggins by John D. Rateliff.

In other words, Tolkien! I add all the new Tolkien related things to my 'list', so this one was on it. I was really happy that someone read my mind and sent it to me. I have already read the first chapter (chances are I will only read about a chapter a day) and I am really interested. I am regretting the fact that I still have not read Silmarillion. I own it, I have started it several times.... it is not that the writing is challenging, it is that I feel like I am reading The Bible. So, when he explains part of it I do not know what he is talking about, but the information on The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings is very interesting. In just the first chapter I read a part of The Hobbit that was never published. I learned that Gandalf's name was originally not Gandalf, who was originally named Gandalf, some interesting facts on geography, and learned about some previously unpublished maps.

I apologize in advance, but this book will likely be popping up throughout my posts until I finish it. Then, I think I will challenge myself to bit the bullet and FINALLY read Silmarillion.... Anyways, my thanks to Harper Collins! Is it not great when a publishing company knows your tastes!?!