The Children of Húrin - J.R.R. Tolkien > Reviews > Tolkien - Children of Hurin - Fantastic read

Author's product rating:   

Would you listen to it again?	Absolutely
Story	Outstanding
Characters	Outstanding
Listenability	Once you start it, you won't be able to switch it off!
How does it compare to similar audio books?	Very good
How does it compare to audio works by the same author?	Quite good

Advantages:	Engrossing plot, believable characters, wonderful imagery
Disadvantages:	The Silmarillion reveals the ending

Recommend to potential buyers:

yes

Full review

This is by far one of the best books I have ever read. The proof? I have bought not only the standard hardback issue but also the 2007 deluxe collector's edition version. It is not a 'happy' book but at the same time it is far from constantly depressing. Each character has their own ordeal to go through, and each attempts to rise to meet it with varying degrees of success.

The 'Children of Hurin' adds great detail to such a short story that emerges only briefly in 'The Silmarillion', and while reading 'the Silmarillion' does reveal the ending, the book is still thoroughly engrossing and entertaining.

Another advantage that this book has over other books, and especially 'The Silmarillion' is the fact that it is written in the same manner as 'the Lord of the Rings' in contrast to 'the Silmarillion', which feels more like reading Thucydides.

I have purposely refrained from giving spoilers because this book is a real treat.

I recommend this book to anyone who is a fan of Tolkien, and to anyone who is a fan of incredibly detailed and imaginative books. You should also bare in mind that this is the last book that can be 'officially' authored by J.R.R. Tolkien because he has now been dead for so many years.