What are the costs of military victory? Is mercy sometimes too expensive? Can torture ever be justified? Are there any moral absolutes in a world of competing faiths and cultures? A Hobbit Journey traces these and many other issues through their surprisingly detailed presentation in Tolkien’s fiction. If anyone should still doubt Tolkien’s applicability and relevance to the 21st century, this is the book to put in their hands.”
—Thomas Shippey, author of J.R.R. Tolkien: Author of the Century

“J.R.R. Tolkien’s stories are countries full of treasure that will go undiscovered and unappreciated unless we learn how to be attentive treasure hunters. Matthew Dickerson writes as one who has spent his summers in the Shire, hiked every trail in Mirkwood Forest, taken counsel from Gandalf, and argued with Gollum and Smaug. It’s as though he sharpened the tools of his intellect in deep conversation with Tolkien himself. He will prove to be a thought-provoking guide through Middle-earth whether you’re a frequent visitor there or a newcomer ready for the adventure of a lifetime.”
—Jeffrey Overstreet, author of Auralia’s Colors and Through a Screen Darkly

“A Hobbit Journey instantly engages readers with its combination of scholarly knowledge and love for J.R.R. Tolkien’s work. Matthew Dickerson resists imposing his own rigid, limiting thesis and instead interprets the text by simply pointing out to fellow readers what is there. In doing so, he illuminates the power of Tolkien’s stories to challenge, delight, and transform us.”
—Colin Duriez, author of Tolkien and C.S. Lewis: The Gift of Friendship and J.R.R. Tolkien: The Making of a Legend