J.R.R. Tolkien is one of the best known authors in the world. His epic work 'The Lord of The Rings' was voted the most popular book of the 20th Century, and his children's story 'The Hobbit' is equally well-read. LOTR was also made into three highly successful films. The Hobbit is being made into two films which will stimulate public enthusiasm and there is great interest worldwide in his life and the places he knew.
Tolkien lived in Birmingham during his formative years in nine homes in the south of the city from 1895 to 1911 when he went to study at Oxford University. Although he did not live in the city after this date, he referred to Birmingham as his home town and himself as a 'Birmingham man'. Few cities in the country are so fortunate in their literary connections. He explained later in his life that he had drawn inspiration for his writing from the peoples and landscapes of the city and the surrounding countryside.
The Birmingham Tolkien Strategy acclaims this connection and recognises the need for a broad perspective. It assesses the achievements, the challenges and the opportunities and presents a way forward.
An overall strategy is essential because despite the progress made, Birmingham can make much more of its close Tolkien connections in ways suited to the distinction of Tolkien and the international respect for his work.
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