J.R.R. Tolkien; a biography, by Humphrey Carpenter, 1977 first edition.

J.R.R. Tolkien; A Biography by Humphrey Carpenter is the first full authorised biography of one of the twentieth century's most influential authors. Published in 1977 with the cooperation of Tolkien's family, the book draws on personal papers, correspondence and interviews to trace his life from childhood through his distinguished academic career and the creation of The Hobbit, The Lord of the Rings and his wider legendarium. Long regarded as the standard single-volume life of Tolkien, it remains an essential work for readers and collectors interested in the author and his world.

J.R.R. Tolkien; a biography, by Humphrey Carpenter.

Published by George Allen & Unwin Ltd, London, 1977. First edition, first impression.

A fine brown cloth hardback with gilt title to spine. With a near fine laminated dustjacket. Not price-clipped. With a light wrinkle on the rear. Jacket now housed in protective, removable, clear plastic.

Text is clean and bright throughout. Previous owner's small library reference 'TOLK 14' to top of first free blank endpaper. Top edge tinted brown, as issued.

Text in English.

(x) printed prelims + 287pp +16 pages of photographic plates.

Dimensions: approx 241mm high x 163mm wide x 34mm deep.

Weight: approximately 754g (unpacked).