Letters 
Letter Tags
Letter Tags
Guide to Tolkien's Letters
The Hobbit
(123 letters match)1922
22 June 1922
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J.R.R. Tolkien to Dr. Henry Bradley
Tolkien sends a postcard to Henry Bradley. Tolkien had worked with Bradley on the Oxford English Dictionary. He hopes Bradley has recovered from his rec...
Tolkien sends a postcard to Henry Bradley. Tolkien had worked with Bradley on the Oxford English Dictionary. He hopes Bradley has recovered from his rec...
1936
10 August 1936
J.R.R. Tolkien to Christopher Tolkien
Letters #8b
Writing to, Christopher, Tolkien says he misses his son but that he is glad Christopher’s little holiday has begun with fine weather. He discusses the...
Writing to, Christopher, Tolkien says he misses his son but that he is glad Christopher’s little holiday has begun with fine weather. He discusses the...
30 October 1936
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Rayner Unwin to Sir Stanley Unwin
Sir Stanley Unwins son Rayner was paid to write a review of a book that was being considered for publication, The Hobbit by J.R.R. Tolkien
Sir Stanley Unwins son Rayner was paid to write a review of a book that was being considered for publication, The Hobbit by J.R.R. Tolkien
1937
4 January 1937
J.R.R. Tolkien to Susan Dagnall
Letters #9
Tolkien details work he has recently completed on maps for The Hobbit, as well as other suggestions. Wayne G. Hammond and Christina Scull note that ther...
Tolkien details work he has recently completed on maps for The Hobbit, as well as other suggestions. Wayne G. Hammond and Christina Scull note that ther...
17 January 1937
J.R.R. Tolkien to C.A. Furth
Letters #10
Tolkien discusses the details of, and placement within the text, some of his illustrations in The Hobbit, as well as potential changes to his illustrati...
Tolkien discusses the details of, and placement within the text, some of his illustrations in The Hobbit, as well as potential changes to his illustrati...
5 February 1937
J.R.R. Tolkien to Susan Dagnall
Letters #11
Tolkien replies to Susan Dagnall of GA&U on matters of the reproductions of some of his illustrations in The Hobbit. In the 2023 revised edition of Lett...
Tolkien replies to Susan Dagnall of GA&U on matters of the reproductions of some of his illustrations in The Hobbit. In the 2023 revised edition of Lett...
?10 March 1937
J.R.R. Tolkien to C.A. Furth
Letters #11b
Tolkien writes to C. A. Furth of GA&U acknowledging the two drawings which were “safely received”, he has placed them in the correct positions among...
Tolkien writes to C. A. Furth of GA&U acknowledging the two drawings which were “safely received”, he has placed them in the correct positions among...
13 April 1937
J.R.R. Tolkien to Allen & Unwin Ltd.
Letters #12
Concerning Tolkiens corrections to the text of The Hobbit, the cost of those corrections, and who would incur that cost, as well as details of his submi...
Concerning Tolkiens corrections to the text of The Hobbit, the cost of those corrections, and who would incur that cost, as well as details of his submi...
25 April 1937
J.R.R. Tolkien to Charles Furth
Tolkien writes back to Furth in regards to the dustjacket design for The Hobbit. Furth wrote on April 15th that the pink hue that Tolkien put on the mou...
Tolkien writes back to Furth in regards to the dustjacket design for The Hobbit. Furth wrote on April 15th that the pink hue that Tolkien put on the mou...
13 May 1937
J.R.R. Tolkien to C.A. Furth
Letters #13
Some of Tolkiens thoughts on the potential publication of The Hobbit in the USA as well as thoughts on American culture in general. Assumed ALS based on...
Some of Tolkiens thoughts on the potential publication of The Hobbit in the USA as well as thoughts on American culture in general. Assumed ALS based on...
28 May 1937
J.R.R. Tolkien to Allen & Unwin
This letter written and sent on the same day as #TCGLetter14. Tolkien writes to George Allen & Unwin about the dust-jacket for The Hobbit. Assumed ALS b...
This letter written and sent on the same day as #TCGLetter14. Tolkien writes to George Allen & Unwin about the dust-jacket for The Hobbit. Assumed ALS b...
28 May 1937
J.R.R. Tolkien to Allen & Unwin Ltd.
Letters #14
Concerning the publication date of The Hobbit in the UK as well as some potentially early reviews of the book. Also Tolkiens reservations about his thou...
Concerning the publication date of The Hobbit in the UK as well as some potentially early reviews of the book. Also Tolkiens reservations about his thou...
31 May 1937
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J.R.R. Tolkien to Lionel Salt
Tolkien writes to Lionel Salt, the Bursar at Pembroke College, University of Cambridge to apologise that he must miss a play as Christopher, his son was...
Tolkien writes to Lionel Salt, the Bursar at Pembroke College, University of Cambridge to apologise that he must miss a play as Christopher, his son was...
31 August 1937
J.R.R. Tolkien to C.A. Furth (Allen & Unwin)
Letters #15
Tolkien enclosed the last of his coloured illustrations for the American edition of The Hobbit. He asked Allen & Unwin to forward it to Houghton Mifflin...
Tolkien enclosed the last of his coloured illustrations for the American edition of The Hobbit. He asked Allen & Unwin to forward it to Houghton Mifflin...
5-7 September 1937
J.R.R. Tolkien to C.A. Furth (of George Allen and Unwin)
Writing to C.A. Furth, and apologizes for his lengthy letter regarding the dustcover blurb. Tolkien believes he is still waiting on five copies of The H...
Writing to C.A. Furth, and apologizes for his lengthy letter regarding the dustcover blurb. Tolkien believes he is still waiting on five copies of The H...
17 September 1937
J.R.R. Tolkien to C.A. Furth
Tolkien writes to C.A. Furth of GA&U. He needs five outstanding authors copies and seven copies for giving to a few people who cannot buy a of The Hobbi...
Tolkien writes to C.A. Furth of GA&U. He needs five outstanding authors copies and seven copies for giving to a few people who cannot buy a of The Hobbi...
17 September 1937
J.R.R. Tolkien to Stanley Unwin
Letters #15a
Tolkien, writing to Stanley Unwin, apologizes for sounding ungrateful to him. Unwin had sent Tolkien a much welcomed cheque. He hopes that the Hobbit ea...
Tolkien, writing to Stanley Unwin, apologizes for sounding ungrateful to him. Unwin had sent Tolkien a much welcomed cheque. He hopes that the Hobbit ea...
21 September 1937
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J.R.R. Tolkien to Simonne d'Ardenne
A short note enclosed with a copy of The Hobbit (published on this day) sent by Tolkien as a gift to Simonne dArdenne. The letter is kept at the Univers...
A short note enclosed with a copy of The Hobbit (published on this day) sent by Tolkien as a gift to Simonne dArdenne. The letter is kept at the Univers...
22 September 1937
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J.R.R. Tolkien to Jane Neave
Tolkien wrote to his Aunt, Jane Neave enclosing a signed copy of The Hobbit. This letter and the book were described with some short quotes and an image...
Tolkien wrote to his Aunt, Jane Neave enclosing a signed copy of The Hobbit. This letter and the book were described with some short quotes and an image...
2 October 1937
J.R.R. Tolkien to Christopher Tolkien
Letters #15b
Writing to his son Christopher, Tolkien says how delighted he is to have received his letter, although he doesnt expect them. He, Edith, and Priscilla h...
Writing to his son Christopher, Tolkien says how delighted he is to have received his letter, although he doesnt expect them. He, Edith, and Priscilla h...
15 October 1937
J.R.R. Tolkien to Stanley Unwin
Letters #17
Tolkien was pleased that The Hobbit was being well received, though he suspected that the two glowing, unsigned reviews in The Times and the Times Liter...
Tolkien was pleased that The Hobbit was being well received, though he suspected that the two glowing, unsigned reviews in The Times and the Times Liter...
17 November 1937
J.R.R. Tolkien to Stanley Unwin
Hammonds Bibliography notes that Tolkien wrote to Stanley Unwin about Simonne dArdennes translation of an early draft of Farmer Giles of Ham in a letter...
Hammonds Bibliography notes that Tolkien wrote to Stanley Unwin about Simonne dArdennes translation of an early draft of Farmer Giles of Ham in a letter...
13 December 1937
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Arthur Ransome to J.R.R. Tolkien
Arthur Ransome, best known for his Swallows and Amazons series of childrens books wrote to Tolkien in 1937 after The Hobbit had been published, firstly ...
Arthur Ransome, best known for his Swallows and Amazons series of childrens books wrote to Tolkien in 1937 after The Hobbit had been published, firstly ...
14 December 1937
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J.R.R. Tolkien to G.E. Selby
Tolkien apologizes for the delay in replying due to his poor health. writes that he prefers his own mythology which The Hobbit only briefly touches upon...
Tolkien apologizes for the delay in replying due to his poor health. writes that he prefers his own mythology which The Hobbit only briefly touches upon...
15 December 1937
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J.R.R. Tolkien to Arthur Ransome
Replying to Arthur Ransomes letter of 13th December (see #TCGLetter106) Tolkien opens with exclamations of honour at receiving a letter from Ransome. To...
Replying to Arthur Ransomes letter of 13th December (see #TCGLetter106) Tolkien opens with exclamations of honour at receiving a letter from Ransome. To...
15th December 1937
Stanley Unwin to J.R.R. Tolkien
Stanley Unwin quotes to Tolkien a positive note from Arthur Ransome about The Hobbit. This letter is quoted in The History of the Hobbit. The letter is ...
Stanley Unwin quotes to Tolkien a positive note from Arthur Ransome about The Hobbit. This letter is quoted in The History of the Hobbit. The letter is ...
17 December 1937
Arthur Ransome to J.R.R. Tolkien
Arthur Ransome writes to Tolkien with further thoughts about The Hobbit. he says that he had recently had an operation and the book had turned that time...
Arthur Ransome writes to Tolkien with further thoughts about The Hobbit. he says that he had recently had an operation and the book had turned that time...
1938
1 February 1938
J.R.R. Tolkien to Allen & Unwin Ltd.
Letters #21
Originally published as just a fragment of a letter, gauging Rayner Unwins interest in reading the sequel to The Hobbit. In the revised 2023 edition of ...
Originally published as just a fragment of a letter, gauging Rayner Unwins interest in reading the sequel to The Hobbit. In the revised 2023 edition of ...
17 February 1938
J.R.R. Tolkien to Allen & Unwin
Tolkien informs his publisher that Houghton Mifflin are yet to return to him the five orginal watercolour paintings for The Hobbit.
Tolkien informs his publisher that Houghton Mifflin are yet to return to him the five orginal watercolour paintings for The Hobbit.
20 February 1938
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J.R.R. Tolkien to Editor of the Observer
Letters #25
On 16 January 1938 the Observer newspaper published a letter asking about the The Hobbits links to Beowulf and other branches of mythology, as well as t...
On 16 January 1938 the Observer newspaper published a letter asking about the The Hobbits links to Beowulf and other branches of mythology, as well as t...
12 March 1938
J.R.R. Tolkien to Houghton Mifflin Co.
Letters #27
Houghton Mifflin seemed to have asked Tolkien for drawings of Hobbits for some future edition of The Hobbit. Tolkien stated that such drawings should be...
Houghton Mifflin seemed to have asked Tolkien for drawings of Hobbits for some future edition of The Hobbit. Tolkien stated that such drawings should be...
4 June 1938
J.R.R. Tolkien to Stanley Unwin
Letters #28
On 1 June Unwin had told Tolkien that approximately 3,000 copies of the American edition of The Hobbit had been sold. In April, the book had been awarde...
On 1 June Unwin had told Tolkien that approximately 3,000 copies of the American edition of The Hobbit had been sold. In April, the book had been awarde...
24 July 1938
J.R.R. Tolkien to C.A. Furth
Letters #31
The Hobbit should have come out in 1938 instead of 1937, said Tolkien, because in 1939 he would have the time and mood to write the sequel. Current work...
The Hobbit should have come out in 1938 instead of 1937, said Tolkien, because in 1939 he would have the time and mood to write the sequel. Current work...
25 July 1938
J.R.R. Tolkien to Stanley Unwin
Letters #29
Tolkien wrote to Stanley Unwin concerning a request made by Rütten & Loening Verlag. This German publishing house had enquired about a possible German ...
Tolkien wrote to Stanley Unwin concerning a request made by Rütten & Loening Verlag. This German publishing house had enquired about a possible German ...
25 July 1938
J.R.R. Tolkien to Rütten & Loening Verlag
Letters #30
Rütten & Loening Verlag, a German publisher, had enquired about the possibility of a translation of The Hobbit, and asked about his ancestry and Aryan-...
Rütten & Loening Verlag, a German publisher, had enquired about the possibility of a translation of The Hobbit, and asked about his ancestry and Aryan-...
13 October 1938
J.R.R. Tolkien to Stanley Unwin
Letters #34
Tolkien stated that he had worked very hard for a month on the sequel to The Hobbit and had reached Chapter XI. He was thoroughly engrossed in it with a...
Tolkien stated that he had worked very hard for a month on the sequel to The Hobbit and had reached Chapter XI. He was thoroughly engrossed in it with a...
1939
2 February 1939
J.R.R. Tolkien to C.A. Furth
Letters #35
Tolkien reported that the new story, The Lord of the Rings, had reached Chapter 12 and over 300 pages of manuscript. He foresaw at least 200 more pages ...
Tolkien reported that the new story, The Lord of the Rings, had reached Chapter 12 and over 300 pages of manuscript. He foresaw at least 200 more pages ...
19 December 1939
J.R.R. Tolkien to Stanley Unwin
Letters #37
Tolkien had agreed to write a forward to a revision by C.L. Wrenn of Clark Hall’s translation of Beowulf but had not answered several inquiries about ...
Tolkien had agreed to write a forward to a revision by C.L. Wrenn of Clark Hall’s translation of Beowulf but had not answered several inquiries about ...
1941
1 February 1941
J.R.R. Tolkien to Christopher Tolkien
Letters #42b
Writing to Christopher, Tolkien remarks on the work of typing up Hobbit and how Edith and Priscilla are getting along. He then promises to write more.
Writing to Christopher, Tolkien remarks on the work of typing up Hobbit and how Edith and Priscilla are getting along. He then promises to write more.
1942
15 March 1942
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J.R.R. Tolkien to John Kettle
Tolkien discusses The Hobbit, the Silmarillion, and The Lord of the Rings, the last then a work-in-progress. The recipient, John Kettle, was a Junior Ho...
Tolkien discusses The Hobbit, the Silmarillion, and The Lord of the Rings, the last then a work-in-progress. The recipient, John Kettle, was a Junior Ho...
1943
3 August 1943
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J.R.R. Tolkien to Leila Keene and Pat Kirke
Tolkien wrote this long letter to two schoolgirls, Leila Keane and Patricia Kirke who were both very enthusiastic about hobbits, in reply to their quest...
Tolkien wrote this long letter to two schoolgirls, Leila Keane and Patricia Kirke who were both very enthusiastic about hobbits, in reply to their quest...
1944
22 June 1944
Stanley Unwin to J.R.R. Tolkien
Stanley Unwin writes to Tolkien asking of he could meet his son Rayner who is serving as a Cadet in the Navy at Oxford. He also encloses a cheque for £...
Stanley Unwin writes to Tolkien asking of he could meet his son Rayner who is serving as a Cadet in the Navy at Oxford. He also encloses a cheque for £...
25 October 1944
J.R.R. Tolkien to Christopher Tolkien
Letters #87
Along with this letter Tolkien sent two more chapters of the Ring to Christopher for his delectation and criticism. Since he thought the packet would no...
Along with this letter Tolkien sent two more chapters of the Ring to Christopher for his delectation and criticism. Since he thought the packet would no...
1945
9 January 1945
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J.R.R. Tolkien to Leila Keane and Patricia Kirke
Tolkien writes to Leila Keane and Patricia Kirke, he discusses his progress with The Lord of the Rings, and the fortunes of his family. The letter was a...
Tolkien writes to Leila Keane and Patricia Kirke, he discusses his progress with The Lord of the Rings, and the fortunes of his family. The letter was a...
1946
21 July 1946
J.R.R. Tolkien to Stanley Unwin
Letters #105
Unwin had been knighted and asked about progress on The Lord of the Rings. Tolkien, addressing him as Sir Stanley, felt he had treated him badly and sai...
Unwin had been knighted and asked about progress on The Lord of the Rings. Tolkien, addressing him as Sir Stanley, felt he had treated him badly and sai...
7 December 1946
J.R.R. Tolkien to Stanley Unwin
Letters #107
Tolkien reported receiving letters from Horus Engels about a German translation of The Hobbit, although he seemed he was not proposing himself as the tr...
Tolkien reported receiving letters from Horus Engels about a German translation of The Hobbit, although he seemed he was not proposing himself as the tr...
1947
5 May 1947
J.R.R. Tolkien to Stanley Unwin
Letters #107a
Tolkien notes to Stanley Unwin that he has received the agreement for Farmer Giles of Ham, he would also send revised manuscripts for it in July Hammond...
Tolkien notes to Stanley Unwin that he has received the agreement for Farmer Giles of Ham, he would also send revised manuscripts for it in July Hammond...
20 September 1947
J.R.R. Tolkien to Allen & Unwin Ltd.
Letters #110
The Houghton Mifflin Co. asked Allen and Unwin for permission to use several riddles from The Hobbit in a poetry anthology. Allen and Unwin suggested to...
The Houghton Mifflin Co. asked Allen and Unwin for permission to use several riddles from The Hobbit in a poetry anthology. Allen and Unwin suggested to...
26 September 1947
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J.R.R. Tolkien to Jennifer Paxman
Tolkien writes to Jennifer with some advice on an Oxford College, and errors in The Hobbit. A description of the letter appeared in The J.R.R. Tolkien C...
Tolkien writes to Jennifer with some advice on an Oxford College, and errors in The Hobbit. A description of the letter appeared in The J.R.R. Tolkien C...
30 September 1947
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J.R.R. Tolkien to Rosemary
Writing to a young fan, Rosemary, Tolkien says he is yet to finish his new book about Bilbo and his nephew. . He worries that it is so long that the pub...
Writing to a young fan, Rosemary, Tolkien says he is yet to finish his new book about Bilbo and his nephew. . He worries that it is so long that the pub...
30 November 1947
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J.R.R. Tolkien to Katharine Farrer
Letters #112
Katharine Farrer, an Oxford-based detective author, had apparently asked for her copy of The Hobbit to be signed. Instead, Tolkien wrote her a note in R...
Katharine Farrer, an Oxford-based detective author, had apparently asked for her copy of The Hobbit to be signed. Instead, Tolkien wrote her a note in R...
1948
7 April 1948
J.R.R. Tolkien to Hugh Brogan
Letters #114
Brogan had read The Hobbit, and inquired about the world it played in. Tolkien informed him about Farmer Giles of Ham and the unfinished The Silmarillio...
Brogan had read The Hobbit, and inquired about the world it played in. Tolkien informed him about Farmer Giles of Ham and the unfinished The Silmarillio...
15 June [?1948]
J.R.R. Tolkien to Katharine Farrer
Letters #115
Tolkien was touched and excited by a kind letter Mrs. Farrer had sent to him. Although he had worked on these things since 1914 only C.S. Lewis and his ...
Tolkien was touched and excited by a kind letter Mrs. Farrer had sent to him. Although he had worked on these things since 1914 only C.S. Lewis and his ...
1950
5 February 1950
J.R.R. Tolkien to Milton Waldman
Letters #123
Tolkien writes to Milton Waldman of the Collins Publishing co., who he had been introduced to in 1949. Waldman had been interested in publishing the Sil...
Tolkien writes to Milton Waldman of the Collins Publishing co., who he had been introduced to in 1949. Waldman had been interested in publishing the Sil...
1 August 1950
J.R.R. Tolkien to Allen & Unwin Ltd.
Letters #128
In July, Tolkien was sent proofs for a new edition of The Hobbit. Along with minor corrections, the new version of Chapter 5, Riddles in the Dark had be...
In July, Tolkien was sent proofs for a new edition of The Hobbit. Along with minor corrections, the new version of Chapter 5, Riddles in the Dark had be...
4 September 1950
J.R.R. Tolkien to Hugh Brogan
Letters #128a
Writing to Hugh Brogan, Tolkien notes that he does not know what is happening with The Lord of the Rings which he had hoped would be published this year...
Writing to Hugh Brogan, Tolkien notes that he does not know what is happening with The Lord of the Rings which he had hoped would be published this year...
10 September 1950
J.R.R. Tolkien to Stanley Unwin
Letters #129
For the new edition of The Hobbit, Tolkiens publishers asked for the precise wording for a note that explained the changes. People who had read both ver...
For the new edition of The Hobbit, Tolkiens publishers asked for the precise wording for a note that explained the changes. People who had read both ver...
1952
22 May 1952
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C.S. Lewis to Dear Grittletonians
Lewis letter recommending Tolkiens The Hobbit.
Lewis letter recommending Tolkiens The Hobbit.
24 October 1952
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J.R.R. Tolkien to Rayner Unwin
Letters #135
A printer had estimated that to recover costs The Lord of the Rings would have to be priced at £3 10s at a minimum and would cost more if divided into ...
A printer had estimated that to recover costs The Lord of the Rings would have to be priced at £3 10s at a minimum and would cost more if divided into ...
1953
5 June 1953
J.R.R. Tolkien to Allen & Unwin
Letters #137c
Tolkien writes to Allen & Unwin asking if there will be opportunity for the book to be reviewed. He wants C.S. Lewis especially to be able to review the...
Tolkien writes to Allen & Unwin asking if there will be opportunity for the book to be reviewed. He wants C.S. Lewis especially to be able to review the...
19 November 1953
J.R.R. Tolkien to Rayner Unwin
Letters #141b
Tolkien writes to Rayner, he has been struggling with ill-health through the term and only recently has he been able to deal with “many strands” of ...
Tolkien writes to Rayner, he has been struggling with ill-health through the term and only recently has he been able to deal with “many strands” of ...
2 December 1953
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J.R.R. Tolkien to Miss Perry
Writing to Miss Perry Tolkien discusses the Lord of the Rings, hoping it will be published in the coming year. He has had Ill health and has been very b...
Writing to Miss Perry Tolkien discusses the Lord of the Rings, hoping it will be published in the coming year. He has had Ill health and has been very b...
1954
13 October 1954
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J.R.R. Tolkien to John Staniforth
Tolkien was delighted to receive a letter from Mr. John Staniforth referring to himself as a sexagenarian. Tolkien cites his noticing of the songs in Th...
Tolkien was delighted to receive a letter from Mr. John Staniforth referring to himself as a sexagenarian. Tolkien cites his noticing of the songs in Th...
1955
12 May 1955
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J.R.R. Tolkien to Rayner Unwin
Tolkien replies to Rayner Unwin concerning his approval of Tolkiens map, which Christopher Tolkien reproduced.
Tolkien replies to Rayner Unwin concerning his approval of Tolkiens map, which Christopher Tolkien reproduced.
2 June 1955
J.R.R. Tolkien to Rosemary Summers
Replying to Rosemary Summers, believed to be a teacher, Tolkien says that some critics argued the Hobbit was too frightening for children. Her school ch...
Replying to Rosemary Summers, believed to be a teacher, Tolkien says that some critics argued the Hobbit was too frightening for children. Her school ch...
5 June 1955
J.R.R. Tolkien to The New York Times Book Review
Tolkien responded to a request as to what makes him tick. Quotes from this letter were printed in the 5 June 1955 New York Times Book Review article In ...
Tolkien responded to a request as to what makes him tick. Quotes from this letter were printed in the 5 June 1955 New York Times Book Review article In ...
?December 1955
J.R.R. Tolkien to Michael Straight
Letters #181
Tolkien thanked Mr. Straight for his letter but asked if he had enjoyed The Lord of the Rings, which was written to amuse, as in to be readable. He stre...
Tolkien thanked Mr. Straight for his letter but asked if he had enjoyed The Lord of the Rings, which was written to amuse, as in to be readable. He stre...
1956
16 April 1956
J.R.R. Tolkien to H [Humphrey]. Cotton Minchin
Letters #187
Tolkien describes himself as a philologist, and sometime calligrapher. An index of Elvish names was intended to be produced, noting that his specialist ...
Tolkien describes himself as a philologist, and sometime calligrapher. An index of Elvish names was intended to be produced, noting that his specialist ...
1957
9 April 1957
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J.R.R. Tolkien to Mr. Haywood
Mr Haywood, a young reader of The Lord of the Rings, had written a letter of appreciation to Tolkien. The letter reflects on the success of The Hobbit. ...
Mr Haywood, a young reader of The Lord of the Rings, had written a letter of appreciation to Tolkien. The letter reflects on the success of The Hobbit. ...
3 May 1957
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J.R.R. Tolkien to Charles Blackwood
A letter to a young fan named Charles Blackwood. Discusses runes, Tolkien remarks that he did not invent the runes in The Hobbit. See for more details.
A letter to a young fan named Charles Blackwood. Discusses runes, Tolkien remarks that he did not invent the runes in The Hobbit. See for more details.
9 June 1957
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J.R.R. Tolkien to William Ready
Tolkien sends his apologies for having not replied to William Readys letter, or to an invitation from the director of the Marquette Department of Englis...
Tolkien sends his apologies for having not replied to William Readys letter, or to an invitation from the director of the Marquette Department of Englis...
1959
17 April 1959
J.R.R. Tolkien to Walter Allen
Letters #215
Tolkien declines to take part in a symposium on Childrens writing in draft form, but ends up sending just a short note.
Tolkien declines to take part in a symposium on Childrens writing in draft form, but ends up sending just a short note.
19 June 1959
J.R.R. Tolkien to Benjamin Knights
Tolkien writes to Benjamin, and thanks him for buying The Lord of the Rings and answers a question on the height of Amon Hen, he doubts it was much over...
Tolkien writes to Benjamin, and thanks him for buying The Lord of the Rings and answers a question on the height of Amon Hen, he doubts it was much over...
1960
7 January 1960
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J.R.R. Tolkien to Mr. K.F. Mawson
A fascinating letter on the labors of producing his iconic work, concluding with a humorous aside on real-life namesakes of his famous characters. A pho...
A fascinating letter on the labors of producing his iconic work, concluding with a humorous aside on real-life namesakes of his famous characters. A pho...
10 December 1960
J.R.R. Tolkien to Rayner Unwin
Letters #225
Tolkien discusses Puffin Books offer to print The Hobbit.
Tolkien discusses Puffin Books offer to print The Hobbit.
1961
1961
George Allen & Unwin to Penguin Books
A series of letters found at the University of Reading GA&U archives. Consisting of 172 items, not all of which concern Tolkien. Among the subjects disc...
A series of letters found at the University of Reading GA&U archives. Consisting of 172 items, not all of which concern Tolkien. Among the subjects disc...
5 January 1961
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J.R.R. Tolkien to Mrs E. C. Ossendrijver
Letters #227
Of this letter, a large portion was published as Letter #227 in The Letters of J.R.R. Tolkien. In the opening portion of this letter to Madam Ossendrijv...
Of this letter, a large portion was published as Letter #227 in The Letters of J.R.R. Tolkien. In the opening portion of this letter to Madam Ossendrijv...
12 July 1961
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Rayner Unwin to J.R.R. Tolkien
Rayner Unwin writes to Tolkien with news that Miss Pamela Chandler wants to photograph him. He impresses upon Tolkien that they could use the photograph...
Rayner Unwin writes to Tolkien with news that Miss Pamela Chandler wants to photograph him. He impresses upon Tolkien that they could use the photograph...
4 November 1961
J.R.R. Tolkien to Joyce Reeves
Letters #232
Tolkien talks about his pre-WWI trip to the Alps.
Tolkien talks about his pre-WWI trip to the Alps.
22 November 1961
J.R.R. Tolkien to Jane Neave
Letters #234
Tolkien sends some poems that he is considering for The Adventures of Tom Bombadil. A lecture he gave on fairy stories at St Andrews consolidated his vi...
Tolkien sends some poems that he is considering for The Adventures of Tom Bombadil. A lecture he gave on fairy stories at St Andrews consolidated his vi...
30 December 1961
J.R.R. Tolkien to Rayner Unwin
Letters #236
Tolkien has read the Puffin Hobbit and was not impressed with changes made to the book. Chronology contains additional quoted material beyond what appea...
Tolkien has read the Puffin Hobbit and was not impressed with changes made to the book. Chronology contains additional quoted material beyond what appea...
1962
20 July 1962
J.R.R. Tolkien to Alina Dadlez
Letters #239
Writing to Alina Dadlez, Tolkien explains his displeasure at the Spanish translation of Hobbit and remarks back to the private fancies of the translator...
Writing to Alina Dadlez, Tolkien explains his displeasure at the Spanish translation of Hobbit and remarks back to the private fancies of the translator...
19 September 1962
J.R.R. Tolkien to Alina Dadlez
Tolkie writes explaining that I prefer hobitos since it preserves to the eye more relationship to the original word. I do not much mind the h being mute...
Tolkie writes explaining that I prefer hobitos since it preserves to the eye more relationship to the original word. I do not much mind the h being mute...
1963
13 February 1963
J.R.R. Tolkien to Miss Allen
Tolkien writes to Miss Allen and notes that the Mewlips of his poem are mere legend, and that although the Hobbits are treated in his work as historical...
Tolkien writes to Miss Allen and notes that the Mewlips of his poem are mere legend, and that although the Hobbits are treated in his work as historical...
17 February 1963
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J.R.R. Tolkien to Julie Cape
Tolkien writes to Julie Cape thanking her for her letter of appreciation. She has enjoyed The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings and Tolkien hopes that sh...
Tolkien writes to Julie Cape thanking her for her letter of appreciation. She has enjoyed The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings and Tolkien hopes that sh...
20 September 1963
J.R.R. Tolkien to Colonel Worskett
Letters #247
Tolkien writes about The Lord of the Rings, comparisons to The Hobbit, some discussion of the material being worked on for The Silmarillion, and a lengt...
Tolkien writes about The Lord of the Rings, comparisons to The Hobbit, some discussion of the material being worked on for The Silmarillion, and a lengt...
21 October 1963
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J.R.R. Tolkien to Mrs. Munby
Writing to a Mrs Munby (while at Hotel Miramar, Bournemouth) in response to a number of questions posed by her son Stephen about The Lord of the Rings, ...
Writing to a Mrs Munby (while at Hotel Miramar, Bournemouth) in response to a number of questions posed by her son Stephen about The Lord of the Rings, ...
1964
17 January 1964
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J.R.R. Tolkien to Mrs. A. Mountfield
A typed letter of thanks to Mrs A. Mountfield of Eltham Green School, thanking her for sending the letter by one of her class children (#TCGLetter541) w...
A typed letter of thanks to Mrs A. Mountfield of Eltham Green School, thanking her for sending the letter by one of her class children (#TCGLetter541) w...
17 January 1964
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J.R.R. Tolkien to Master Clements
Tolkien thanks Master Clements for his appreciation of The Hobbit and suggests that the other books I have written which you might enjoy, Farmer Giles o...
Tolkien thanks Master Clements for his appreciation of The Hobbit and suggests that the other books I have written which you might enjoy, Farmer Giles o...
30 May 1964
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J.R.R. Tolkien to Jane T. Sibley
Miss Jane T. Sibley, a college student in Haddam, Connecticut, asked Tolkien why the runes used in The Hobbit and in The Lord of the Rings were not of t...
Miss Jane T. Sibley, a college student in Haddam, Connecticut, asked Tolkien why the runes used in The Hobbit and in The Lord of the Rings were not of t...
16 July 1964
J.R.R. Tolkien to Christopher Bretherton
Letters #257
Tolkien assured Bretherton that typing was not a discourtesy. He usually typed since his handwriting tended to start fair but then drift into picturesqu...
Tolkien assured Bretherton that typing was not a discourtesy. He usually typed since his handwriting tended to start fair but then drift into picturesqu...
14 August 1964
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J.R.R. Tolkien to Joy Hill
Tolkien discusses the serialisation of The Hobbit in The Princess. Tolkien notes that dwarves is used throughout in his book, but it would be ok for thi...
Tolkien discusses the serialisation of The Hobbit in The Princess. Tolkien notes that dwarves is used throughout in his book, but it would be ok for thi...
16 August 1964
J.R.R. Tolkien to Carey Blyton
Letters #260
Blyton had asked Tolkien’s permission to compose a Hobbit Overture.
Blyton had asked Tolkien’s permission to compose a Hobbit Overture.
1965
24 August 1965
J.R.R. Tolkien to Rayner Unwin
Letters #275a
Tolkien apologizes once again for being late in getting work to Rayner, this time revisions on the 3rd edition of The Hobbit. He says that many revision...
Tolkien apologizes once again for being late in getting work to Rayner, this time revisions on the 3rd edition of The Hobbit. He says that many revision...
12 September 1965
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J.R.R. Tolkien to Dick Plotz
Letters #276
Tolkien writes about The Silmarillion, the Númenórean legends, and his friendship with C.S. Lewis. He discusses the formation of the Tolkien Society o...
Tolkien writes about The Silmarillion, the Númenórean legends, and his friendship with C.S. Lewis. He discusses the formation of the Tolkien Society o...
12 September 1965
J.R.R. Tolkien to Rayner Unwin
Letters #277
In August 1965 Ballantine Books produced the first ‘authorized’ American paperback of The Hobbit, without incorporating Tolkien’s revisions to the...
In August 1965 Ballantine Books produced the first ‘authorized’ American paperback of The Hobbit, without incorporating Tolkien’s revisions to the...
15 December 1965
J.R.R. Tolkien to Rayner Unwin
Letters #281
Tolkien writes about a new UK paperback edition of The Hobbit. He comments on replacing the note explaining Bilbos changed story and the two Thrains wit...
Tolkien writes about a new UK paperback edition of The Hobbit. He comments on replacing the note explaining Bilbos changed story and the two Thrains wit...
1966
1966
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J.R.R. Tolkien to Charles Calleja
Tolkien writes to explain that the second edition of The Hobbit is different to the original. Charles Calleja gave some insights about the letter and hi...
Tolkien writes to explain that the second edition of The Hobbit is different to the original. Charles Calleja gave some insights about the letter and hi...
29 July 1966
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J.R.R. Tolkien to Max Rouslin
Tolkien offers advice on finding first editions of The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit.
Tolkien offers advice on finding first editions of The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit.
24 November 1966
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J.R.R. Tolkien to Professor Bauer
Professor Bauer had written asking Tolkien about Sinclair Lewiss Babbitt. Tolkien wonders if the name had some influence on the invention of hobbit. The...
Professor Bauer had written asking Tolkien about Sinclair Lewiss Babbitt. Tolkien wonders if the name had some influence on the invention of hobbit. The...
14 December 1966
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J.R.R. Tolkien to Father Maycock
Tolkien sends an inscribed copy of the Japanese Hobbit, it reads With best wishes to Fr Hugh Maycock and Pusey House | Dec. 14. 1966 Tolkien inserted a ...
Tolkien sends an inscribed copy of the Japanese Hobbit, it reads With best wishes to Fr Hugh Maycock and Pusey House | Dec. 14. 1966 Tolkien inserted a ...
1967
5 January 1967
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J.R.R. Tolkien to Joy Hill
Joy has sent Tolkien a copy of The Childrens Treasury of Literature, which includes a chapter from The Hobbit.
Joy has sent Tolkien a copy of The Childrens Treasury of Literature, which includes a chapter from The Hobbit.
8 February 1967
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J.R.R. Tolkien to Colin Manlove
Tolkien writes about his essay On Fairy Stories and says that The Lord of the Rings was meant as a large-scale adult fairy story. Quoted in C. N. Manlov...
Tolkien writes about his essay On Fairy Stories and says that The Lord of the Rings was meant as a large-scale adult fairy story. Quoted in C. N. Manlov...
21 March 1967
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J.R.R. Tolkien to Humphrey Carpenter
Tolkien writes to Humphrey to give permission for a play based on The Hobbit.
Tolkien writes to Humphrey to give permission for a play based on The Hobbit.
12 May 1967
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J.R.R. Tolkien to David Best
This letter was featured on the BBCs Repair Shop broadcast on 25th January 2023 (see reference). In this letter Tolkien replies that he has received Dav...
This letter was featured on the BBCs Repair Shop broadcast on 25th January 2023 (see reference). In this letter Tolkien replies that he has received Dav...
September 1967
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J.R.R. Tolkien to David Best
A partial view of this letter was featured on the BBCs Repair Shop broadcast on 25th January 2023 (see reference). In the letter, Tolkien remarks on run...
A partial view of this letter was featured on the BBCs Repair Shop broadcast on 25th January 2023 (see reference). In the letter, Tolkien remarks on run...
1968
2 August 1968
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Lynda Johnson Robb to J.R.R. Tolkien
Tolkien receives a letter from Lynda Johnson Robb (from the White House) asking if he would possible be able to sign her book (The Hobbit). Robb had tak...
Tolkien receives a letter from Lynda Johnson Robb (from the White House) asking if he would possible be able to sign her book (The Hobbit). Robb had tak...
11 October 1968
J.R.R. Tolkien to Michael Tolkien
Letters #306
Tolkien was delighted that Michael had visited Switzerland and the very place that affected him so deeply. Bilbos Misty Mountains journey, especially th...
Tolkien was delighted that Michael had visited Switzerland and the very place that affected him so deeply. Bilbos Misty Mountains journey, especially th...
29 December 1968
J.R.R. Tolkien to Michael Tolkien
Letters #307a
Writing to son Michael, Tolkien says he hopes he is doing better and has recovered from overwork. He says that he and Edith spent Christmas with daughte...
Writing to son Michael, Tolkien says he hopes he is doing better and has recovered from overwork. He says that he and Edith spent Christmas with daughte...
1969
3 January 1969
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J.R.R. Tolkien to Niall, David and Catherine McCall
Tolkien sends some autographs for the McCall children to put in their books.
Tolkien sends some autographs for the McCall children to put in their books.
15 March 1969
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J.R.R. Tolkien to Amy Ronald
Tolkien offers profuse thanks for her gift of five bottles. He says that his health and his wife Ediths are not good. They are looking forward to Spring...
Tolkien offers profuse thanks for her gift of five bottles. He says that his health and his wife Ediths are not good. They are looking forward to Spring...
1 August 1969
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J.R.R. Tolkien to Mr Burrows
Tolkien signs the dust-jacket of The Hobbit for Mr Burrows. Sold for £1300 at Bloomsbury Auctions Sale 614, 24th May 2007. Auction listing included a f...
Tolkien signs the dust-jacket of The Hobbit for Mr Burrows. Sold for £1300 at Bloomsbury Auctions Sale 614, 24th May 2007. Auction listing included a f...
1970
10 September 1970
Rayner Unwin to Pauline Baynes
Rayner Unwin to Pauline Baynes writes that A Map of Middle-earth is selling well, and they already plan a reprint. They are now thinking of a poster map...
Rayner Unwin to Pauline Baynes writes that A Map of Middle-earth is selling well, and they already plan a reprint. They are now thinking of a poster map...
4 November 1970
Rayner Unwin to Pauline Baynes
Rayner Unwin to Pauline Baynes says that GA&U are very happy to commission the Hobbit map, entitled There and Back Again] as soon as she can fit it in, ...
Rayner Unwin to Pauline Baynes says that GA&U are very happy to commission the Hobbit map, entitled There and Back Again] as soon as she can fit it in, ...
27 November 1970
Rayner Unwin to Pauline Baynes
Rayner Unwin comments that they are delighted that Baynes will do the Hobbit map entitled There and Back Again. There is no urgency and a few months del...
Rayner Unwin comments that they are delighted that Baynes will do the Hobbit map entitled There and Back Again. There is no urgency and a few months del...
1971
8 January 1971
J.R.R. Tolkien to Roger Lancelyn Green
Letters #319
Tolkien writes to Roger about his thoughts on the origin of the word Hobbit.
Tolkien writes to Roger about his thoughts on the origin of the word Hobbit.
9 August 1971
Rayner Unwin to Pauline Baynes
Rayner Unwin has sent via Joy Hill blowups from the The Lord of the Rings of area the There and Back Again map would need to cover. It has much some det...
Rayner Unwin has sent via Joy Hill blowups from the The Lord of the Rings of area the There and Back Again map would need to cover. It has much some det...
15 September 1971
Rayner Unwin to Pauline Baynes
Rayner Unwin notes that GA&U are delighted with There and Back Again map and that Tolkien is unqualified in his praise. ‘He loved your visit . . . des...
Rayner Unwin notes that GA&U are delighted with There and Back Again map and that Tolkien is unqualified in his praise. ‘He loved your visit . . . des...
1972
27 July 1972
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J.R.R. Tolkien to Help the Aged Housing Association (Tolkien's Desk)
Tolkiens desk where he wrote parts of The Lord of the Rings and entirety of The Hobbit, so said by Tolkien himself. A photocopy of the letter with a com...
Tolkiens desk where he wrote parts of The Lord of the Rings and entirety of The Hobbit, so said by Tolkien himself. A photocopy of the letter with a com...
1973
Not dated (January 1973)
J.R.R. Tolkien to Miss T.R.C.
Letters #347a
Tolkien details his thoughts on a recent article about him in a paper, and what he thought should have been written about. He then tells the respondent ...
Tolkien details his thoughts on a recent article about him in a paper, and what he thought should have been written about. He then tells the respondent ...
5 June 1973
J.R.R. Tolkien to Ungfrú Aðalsteinsdottir
Letters #352
Tolkien is pleased that The Hobbit is being translated into Icelandic.
Tolkien is pleased that The Hobbit is being translated into Icelandic.
28 July 1973
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J.R.R. Tolkien to Professor Campbell
Tolkien writes to Doctor Campbell about how much he enjoyed his visit to Edinburgh and the wonderful reception that he was given.
Tolkien writes to Doctor Campbell about how much he enjoyed his visit to Edinburgh and the wonderful reception that he was given.
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