J.R.R. Tolkien Book Haul

  Today after work I bought a few books by Tolkien. My favorite specialty bookstore which is Fully Booked carries a few Tolkien books. The titles that I've got are, The Children of Hurin, Beren and Luthien, and The Unfinished Tales of Numenor and Middle-Earth. These books are all stories before the events in The Hobbit, and the Lord of the Rings. I decided to buy them because these titles are the only ones left. I also made a special order, "Tolkien's World from A to Z: The Complete Guide to Middle-Earth." It usually takes 2 months if you request for special order for a specific book. I'm thankful that even if I'm from Asia, I have access to these wonderful titles. I just realized my some of my favorite books, and authors come from UK. I love Jane Austen's novels, and I like the movie Harry Potter. I have also read some of the writings of Tolkien's friend,  C.S. Lewis, The Chronicles of Narnia, but maybe as I got older, my taste in literature has changed. I go for a more serious read.

The books that I bought, two of them are soft-bound, and one is a hard-bound. I got a 10% discount in each of the books because, I got a Fully Booked discount card. I have saved all of my receipts, and it reached to the total amount of 15,000 Philippine Pesos. To get a Fully Booked discount card, you can simply purchase it for 700 pesos, or just do what I did, save all your receipts for the whole year until it reaches the amount of P15, 000 Philippine pesos, and then you can apply for the Fully Booked discount card.

Back to these books. I'll just include  here the summary of each of the books.

1. The Unfinished Tales of Numenor and Middle-Earth are stories and essays that were never completed by J.R.R. Tolkien. But they are compiled and edited by his son Christopher Tolkien. This is a must-have for all LoTR fans. One reviewer of this book said that this is a very good supplement , to the Lord of the Rings.

2. The Children of Hurin - This is the first complete book of Tolkien since 1977. The story is about the evil Morgoth and his war against the elves. Since I am fascinated with the Eldar (elves), I simply cannot let this book pass me by.

3. Beren and Luthien - Anyone who is a sucker for love stories this book is for you. Even if their story is included in the Silmarillon (just a brief one). In this book you will know everything about these two. It is basically the story about Beren, a mortal man, who fell in love with an elf named Luthien. This is another must-buy for me, since its about an elf.

So that's it! If you still have not read the books that I mentioned, you can still grab a copy. The photo shown here are some of my Tolkien book collections.Not much, but I'm proud of 'em! I also have a Legolas toy from, The Hobbit, and a Lorien leaf brooch/pin. Tolkien's work is surely an adventure! Happy reading!

The Hobbit: Legolas Greenleaf toy figure

   This month, I bought a Legolas Greenleaf toy figure. I ordered it online. The regular price is $18, but I got it more than that, around $50. My workmate told me that it was overpriced. But personally for me, I think the price was just okay. Because nowadays, you cannot find toy figures from The Hobbit or The Lord of the Rings that easy. I bought this toy figure, because its my favorite character aside from Gandalf. I also need this to satisfy myself. Aside from the LOTR books, Lorien leaf pin, a toy figure is another mark of a true fan. I'm now happy with all of my LOTR collectibles. When I first saw the movie I was attracted to the character played by Orlando Bloom, none other than Legolas.

This is The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey toy figure edition. The website of The Hobbit is printed at the back of the carton case. This toy is copyrighted by, The Bridge Direct, Inc. from U.S.A. As usual it is made in China.

Legolas Greenleaf is the Prince of Mirkwood. His father is King Thranduil. Just a few information. He is also included in The Fellowship of the Ring. He is a skilled archer, and his best friend is Gimli. Kinda unusual, since Elves and dwarves has a not so good smooth relationship in the past. Both elves and Dwarves are good weapon makers.

This toy is exactly 3.75 inches tall. His costume is similar in the movie, and the facial feature has a resemblance. Not that bad. What I like about this toy figure is the details in Legolas weapons. There is a quiver, it contains a bunch of arrows but it is not removable, it is stuck in the quiver. It also has a bow, and two swords are also included. The swords are removable. You can see the beautiful details in those weapons. Also, with regards to the toy figure itself, nice details are shown on his armor and tunic. Plus, it also has intricate designs on Legolas boots. Quite impressive for a small toy figure. There's also a 6 inches toy figure available. For me this is a good Legolas toy figure.

The Princess Bride PC game

  Another goldmine for me is the Princess Bride game. I don't understand why some people didn't like this game. This was released in 2008 and I came to know it maybe a year or two. This game was included in the cd game pack that I bought in a nearby mall from my place. It was developed by Worldwide Biggies. Anyway, this game has been for quite awhile in my possession. I am in level 14 now. I don't regularly play it, and I have no patience actually with regards to PC games. Eventhough I use to play PC games during my younger years. I played classic games like King's Quest, Tapper, Alley Cat, Spy vs. Spy Artic Antics, California Games, Where in the World is Carmen Sandiego. Also I have tried playing newer ones like The Sims, Monkey Island, Myst. I also know Ultima Pagan, Counterstrike, Starcraft and Warcraft. I'm just not fond of playing strategy  games (like Starcraft, and Warcraft). I also don't like shooting games like Counterstrike, and Doom because I get dizzy. I just like the classic, and simple games, like The Princess Bride.

The Princess Bride game has nice graphics. It has the same storyline as the movie. The gave is divided into five parts. The first part is 'As You Wish', here you should do all the task that the game or Buttercup requests. There's a quiz part in the Battle of Wits by Vizzini, finding things, and arcade type games. You will meet all the characters, and of course you get to play as Westley. For me, this is a good game. Actually, for an adult player like me. I find the game a bit difficult. So it's really challenging. Plus, you get to play different kinds of games, and puzzles. If you're a fan of The Princess Bride, then give this game a try.

The Princess Bride Book (Deluxe Edition)

  I bought this book as a heart's day treat for myself. I have seen the movie wayback. Even if this is not my most favorite classic movie (my favorite is the Labyrinth), I still bought the book today. Actually, I just chanced upon this book the other day when I was browsing the Sci-Fi/Fantasy section of a popular local specialty bookstore. I did not buy it, but instead I bought Stardust by Neil Gaiman. My interest in this book got re-kindled when fellow geeks from our online group talked about this. Speaking of the movie, I must admit when I re-watched it, I got bored. But I have respect for this movie because for more than 30 years, it has still remain a favorite in every family's home. I think I need to watch it again. The movie has a lot of moral lessons, and I'm sure that this book is also good to read as well. Relieve your memories of the beautiful Buttercup, and the dashing Westley. There are lots of funny moments in the movie.

Going back to the book. This deluxe edition is illustrated by Michael Manomivibul, and the story of course, is by William Goldman. He did struck gold with this story that he wrote. Who would forget these famous, catchy lines? "Inconceivable! As you wish!, and my name is Inigo Montoya, you killed my father! Prepare to die!" The deluxe edition is hard-bound. As you can see from the photo, the design is very intricate, and classy. The book has lovely illustrations. It is designed like a fairytale book indeed! If you want to know the complete story of 'The Princess Bride' then you should also grab a copy of this book. This is a must-have for all the fans.

Stardust by Neil Gaiman

  I just watched Stardust again. I mean, I re-watched it again. I was able to see this movie a year or two before but I was not that interested, at first I found the movie to be really long (2 hours to be exact), and it bore me. But then again, I bought the book yesterday. So I decided to watch it again. All I can say is I was impressed!

It felt like watching, the classic movie, 'The Princess Bride,' with a 'Wizard of Oz' twist. I just love the characters in the movie, and I like the build-up. This is not my first-time to watch a Gaiman's film. I have watched Gaiman's, 'Coraline,' and it sure is creepy. Just like what dreams are made of. Sweet dreams at first, and then in an instant it becomes a nightmare. No doubt Gaiman is a good storyteller. Everything that you're looking for is in this movie. A magical fantasy, wicked witches, flying pirates, and falling star. (Just like what the caption in the movie poster says).

There were also unforgettable lines from the movie. One short, but meaningful quote that I remember is, "No star can shine with a brokenheart." Also, with all the chaos, lies, bad happenings in this world. Love makes life worth living for, it makes life more meaningful. Without love, I'm sure this world would be zillion times chaotic. There's also a lot of lessons in this movie. (Spoilers ahead!). Some of us think that the person we like, or the one that we pine for is really the one meant for us. But the truth is that there is someone more worthy of our feelings/affection. Someone who will love us back, wherein we don't need to go to great lengths to impress that person, to prove our love is true, or to make that person fall for us. You don't need to wear a mask, or pretend in front of that person, because he or she accepts you just the way you are. He or she is someone who brings out the best in you. Another good lesson learned in the movie, is that family is important. Riches, and inheritance can really be a problem, but what is more important is your respect, and love for one another.

If you haven't seen this movie, or if you still have not read the book. I suggest you grab a copy now. Also, this movie is available on Netflix.

Isn't it nice to think that there's a star watching over us. A star that's shining down on us every night. More than just a stardust.

My Tin Whistle

  It has been a long time since I wanted to own a tin whistle. Ever since I saw Andrea Corr of the Irish band, 'The Corrs' play the tin whistle, and when the played the lively Irish melody called 'Toss the Feathers.' I clearly remember looking at the tin whistles online way, way back, and dreaming of owning one but it was impossible to get one at that time because you need to pay via credit card. Now, I had the chance to own one because there's a lot of online shop around which sells any musical instruments, and you can pay via Cash On Delivery (C.O.D).

The tin whistle is a wind instrument. According to Mr. Moss, a member of one of the tin whistle group online, the tin whistle is the descendant of the much older flageolet. The entire class of fipple flutes share a common style. The recorder and the native American flute is played the same way as the tin whistle. Here in my country we also have a similar instrument, and we call it the bamboo flute. One of the well-known maker of bamboo flute is the King Flute, it is in the key C. I own one wayback, when I was still a teen. The price of the bamboo flute before when converted to dollars was around $6 or less.

My first tin whistle was made in China, it is silver, and had a color black mouthpiece. The brand is Clovers. This is not the customized one named Clover, that is probably made in Argentina. The second flute that I own now is a Feadog. This is a popular brand from Ireland. This is the tin whistle that I'm using now. It is made of brass, has a color green mouthpiece, and it has a Feadog sticker on its body. I can play a simple hymn now called the Amazing Grace.

From the Feadog online shop, quoting: "The Irish tin whistle has been in existence in one form or another for hundred of years. Example of whistles have been found in many different materials including wood, clay, cane and metal. Of all the traditional Irish instruments, the Tin Whistle is probably the most commonly played and the easiest to learn. It has one of the most pleasing sounds of all the musical instrurments. The Feadog is the original Irish whistle and is made in Ireland. Available in the key of C and D. They use a seamless brass barrel, and color coated whistles. It is a real musical instrument produced to the highest standards."

Another reason why I like to own a tin whistle is that it reminds me of the music from Lord of the Rings, and it evokes magical feelings, enchanting music. It also a portable instrument you can carry it anywhere unlike the piano, guitar, or other bigger instruments that's really a hassle to bring. Another popular brand is the Clarke. It is made in England. Most tin whistle players in our fb group favors the Feadog over Clarke. This Feadog costs me around $26. So if you want to feel like magical, start getting your own tin whistle too! Let's play and make beautiful music!

(Just an update! I purchased two new tin whistles. The brand is Clarke. The Feadog is made in Ireland, and the Clarke is made in England. I have now a Clarke Sweetone in C (silver), and a Clarke Celtic tin whistle in D (black). Plus the seller gave me a free Kazoo (a small American instrument that produces a vibrating sound when you hum into it). I also bought a Penny Whistle guide book for beginners).

The Silmarillion, and The Lord of the Rings (J.R.R. Tolkien)

  Yes, I'm also a fan of the Lord of the Rings movie trilogy, and The Hobbit. This week I went to a local specialty bookstore to get the books that I ordered, and reserved for me. Only few specialty bookstores carry The Hobbit and the Lord of the Rings Deluxe Pocket Boxed Set. The Hobbit is also included in this set. It is a bit expensive around P2,299 Philippine pesos. The books are publish by Houghton Mifflin. The price in British Pound is 49.95. The Silmarillon, published by Del Rey Books is cheaper since its paperback, costs around 414 Philippine Pesos. The Deluxe Pocket Boxed Set is very nice to look at. It is not bulky, and heavy to carry. It also comes with a mini-book case. The books have different hard bound colored covers.

I have seen all of the LOTR movies, and they're all amazing! My favorite character from the start is Legolas. He is portrayed in the movie as a handsome elf. He is also very skilled, and a great archer. I also have the leaf brooch that Legolas, and the group wore. The fellowship have this brooch, and it is called Leaves (leaf) of Lorien. They use it for the cloaks, for it to be fastened securely. A lot of people have asked if the brooch has a special use, or if its magic. I don't know. One thing I know if its hand-crafted or made by elves, and its a gift given to you. It sure is special!

Even if male elves rarely or maybe they don't fall in love with female mortals/humans, if ever I'll meet an elf (immortal) I will still like him. (I'm still romantic by heart ha!ha!ha). I believe that male elves are more logical, and also they know that mortals die, and the world beyond death is unknown to them, so they really don't want their daughters to fall for a mortal man. For them, it is a tragedy. There's also a romance on the side. In the movie, unforgettable stories of Tauriel and Kili (broke my heart), and Arwen and Aragorn's love story. A lot of likeable characters in the story. Top of my favorite is Gandalf. Hobbits, dwarfs, and mortals interaction made the whole story magical, and amazing of course! Before, I thought I would never like Tolkien's work, because its deep and it seems dark for me. I thought the Chronicles of Narnia would be my forever favorite story but I was wrong. By the way the movie adaptation of The Hobbit is different from the book. Legolas and Tauriel were not in Tolkien's, The Hobbit.

I also bought the Silmarillion book, because it is about the beginning.  You will know more about the world of the Middle-Earth, and the elves, dwarves, mortals, and the hobbits who share a similarity with the humans. You will know about the First-born, which are the elves, and the Followers which are the men. It also includes the story of Beren and Luthien. The book, The Silmarillion contains J.R.R. Tolkien's letter to Milton Waldman, explaining further his writings. This book was already edited by his son Christopher Tolkien. I also found out that there's another story of a female elf who fell in love with a male mortal (according to a few internet articles, Tolkien, viewed his love, courtship, and eventual marriage, similar to Luthien and Beren's relationship.) There's a separate book, entitled Beren and Luthien. (their story is included in the Silmarillion, but its only brief.) An interesting fact, in the tombstone of Tolkien and his wife, names of Luthien and Beren were engraved. Moving on, aside from the dvd's. LOTR books is also very nice to collect. So, if you're an LOTR fan, and like me who has also seen all the movies,  I say, better buy these books to see the complete picture of the story. Treat yourself! These books are my Valentine's day gift for myself. Love books, love life! Happy reading!