The Fireside

  Christmas is coming up, and it's a magical time of year - not even a virus can stop that. I have a strong association of fantasy with Christmas: it's the time of year that I first read The Hobbit (and The Lord of the Rings not long after), as well as it was when all three of the films had come out. As is my seemingly annual tradition, I'm going to suggest some great Tolkien editions for gifting - whether for someone on your list, or yourself. THE HOBBIT ('young edition') ISBN: 9780007458424 I recommend this edition as often as I can. It's great for a few reasons: - it goes with other Tolkien paperbacks quite well - it's a great way to get someone started on Tolkien that doesn't own any of his books yet and has expressed an interest - it's also the only edition to offer David Wyatt's chapter illustrations. I might be biased towards those, as the first edition of The Hobbit that I've read/owned featured his chapter illustrations. Also, ...

Christmas is, shockingly, weeks away, and that is a magical time of year for children and young ones. For some of us grown ups, the inner child that resides in our hearts also stirs up.  So it is no surprise that I am going to recommend a few classic tales to entertain and entice children and younger readers, be it your own, or someone you know who has kids. Or even yourself if you fancy some post-Christmas shopping. 

"What do you want for Christmas?" is something I get asked, or think about, as early as October. When I was younger, I was more accustomed to making 'wish lists' so that my family had an idea on what to get me. Also because my liking for a particular book format, special edition DVD, etc... Then, I got a job (either part time pay-the-tuition or full time, depending on where I was at in life) and bought my own stuff throughout the year.  Since I have a few readers on here, I will share the answer to that question on here so you have an idea of what Old Man Hawboldt wants this year. And you know, in case Santa reads this blog. 

I have finally decided what I would like for my Birthday. Early, I know, but here it is nonetheless.

Again, in a series of blog posts, this is to help you out, the reader, for your shopping this time of year. I don't know what your budget is, but here are some suggestions I'm passing your way.....

This is the first in a series of posts of gift-giving suggestions, as we are close to (American) Thanksgiving, (and therefore, Black Friday ) as well as Christmas and other holidays in December. This post will look at books. I've suggested some ISBNs of ideal editions (cost, quality)

It's going to be a Barristan Selmy chapter. Don't know details beyond that at this point. It may be 'titled' ("The Queensguard" or something) rather than 'named' ('Barristan') If you want to get into the series, read past the jump for more.