Deep in the depths of the heart, there is a longing for love. The love of a friend, and the knowledge that no matter what sort of pain and tragedy you might face, that friend will always be there to hold your hand, and heart. This extrodinary piece of literature by JRR Tolkien has changed my life. I first read it about 6 years ago, and ever since then, i have found a peace through Tolkiens words. The characters in this book are so devoted to their companions, that they risk their lives for the good of not only one race, but all. A tale of unreal strength, and a fight against evil, leaves the reader wanting to know so much more about the history...and thankfully, Tolkien has provided it for us in his other works! Each family and race has a tie to eachother, each friend has fought for one another and each love has withstood adversity beyond all hope. This world that Tolkien has created, at first glance would be unbeliveable, and simply fiction...but once you have read each page, you come to realize, that middlearth is alive, and real...in all of our hearts.