HarperCollins, 2014. 1st edtion/1st impression thus. Hardback (no dustjacket issued) in slipcase. Illustrated by Alan Lee.
A sumptuous new one-volume edition of Tolkien's classic masterpiece that is fully illustrated throughout in watercolour by the acclaimed and award-winning artist, Alan Lee, and housed in a special transparent slipcase. Since it was first published in 1954, The Lord of the Rings has been a book people have treasured. Steeped in unrivalled magic and otherworldliness, its sweeping fantasy has touched the hearts of young and old alike. Well over 100 million copies of its many editions have been sold around the world, and occasional collectors' editions become prized and valuable items of publishing. With the epic trilogy now an acclaimed, award-winning and billion-dollar success, images of the characters and landscapes have become iconic to a whole new generation of readers. Much of the look of these movies is based on Alan Lee's paintings, giving this sumptuous new edition of Tolkien's great work new relevance for the ever-growing number of fans. This new edition is housed in a special transparent slipcase and includes a brand new setting that features the definitive 50th anniversary text, which together with Alan's beautiful paintings provides the reader with the ultimate edition with which to celebrate the 60th anniversary of the work's first publication.*