J.R.R. Tolkien has been called "the author of the century" by at least one author, and his books have been consistently popular. Tolkien is known for more than just his tales of hobbits and elves; his work consists of numerous essays, letters, poems, and other works. These books discuss Tolkien's life and the importance of his works.
1. J.R.R. Tolkien: Author of the Century
by Tom Shippey. Houghton Mifflin. Shippey introduces his readers to the life and adventures of J.R.R. Tolkien. He discusses the phenomenon of Tolkien's dramatic success, offers insights into his works, and even writes about the accessibility of Middle Earth.2. Hobbits, Elves and Wizards
by Michael N. Stanton. Palgrave. Michael Stanton has been teaching the works of J.R.R. Tolkien for more than 25 years at the University of Vermont. His look into Tolkien's world is bound to be amazing. Chapters included in this book are: "Backgrounds," "Geography, History, Theme" ... "Darkness, Evil, and Forms of the Enemy," and "On Languages."
3. J.R.R. Tolkien Companion
by Wayne G. Hammond, and Christina Scull. Houghton Mifflin. From the publisher: "Designed to be the essential reference works for all readers and students, these volumes present the most thorough analysis possible of Tolkien's work within the important context of his life."4. J.R.R. Tolkien: A Biography
by Humphrey Carpenter. Houghton Mifflin. Carpenter covers the life of Tolkien, from his early life, through his faith, his experience in World War I, and his friendship with the C.S. Lewis and the other Inklings.5. The Letters of J.R.R. Tolkien
by J.R.R. Tolkien, Humphry Carpenter (Editor), and Christopher Tolkien (Contributor). Houghton Mifflin. Read about the Tolkien's life and works from his own pen. Carpenter has already contributed to Tolkien studies with his biography. Now, he provides introductions to the letters, which include wartime correspondence, love letters, etc.6. Tolkien: A Celebration Collected Writings on a Literary Legacy
by Joseph Pearce (Editor). Trafalgar Square. This book collects 15 essays that discuss J.R.R. Tolkien's life and his legacy in words. What were his inspirations? His work is approached from many different slants: the myth, the history, and all various related theology and philosophy.7. Myth Maker: J.R.R. Tolkien
by Anne E. Neimark and Brad Weinman (Illustrator). Harcourt. Neimark writes about the life and work of J.R.R. Tolkien, including his early years of creating original language, and his later years of creating "The Lord of the Rings" and all of his other fantastic works.8. J.R.R. Tolkien
by Harold Bloom (Editor). Chelsea House. From the publisher: "The revered author of the science fiction/fantasy works 'The Hobbit' and 'The Lord of the Rings' trilogy also had a distinguished career as a Professor at Oxford University."9. Readings on J.R.R. Tolkien
by Katie De Koster (Editor). Greenhaven Press. This work offers 15 essays about the the life and work of J.R.R. Tolkien. They range from discussions of Tolkien's style to sources and themes. The book also includes a chronology.10. J.R.R. Tolkien: Artist and Illustrator
by Wayne G. Hammond (Editor), Christina Scull (Editor). Houghton Mifflin. This book includes more than 200 reproductions of Tolkien's drawings, sketches and paintings. They offer new insight into his life and works.