A few days ago, I finished a "Lord of the Rings" marathon with a few friends. Not only was the company superb, but I was reminded how much I love the series. I was also reminded how much I want to reread the books themselves.

Tolkien's work inspired me to become a writer in the first place. He's a role model for me in more ways than one. His writing is of the most superb quality that I have ever encountered, and I truly believe that the "Lord of the Rings" is one of the greatest works of fiction ever written.

I first encountered this series when I was still rather young. I was about eight-years-old when I first watched the movies and nine when I read the books. I already had a fierce love of fiction instilled in me. I practically devoured any book I got my hands on as soon as I learned to read. This series strengthened my love for the written word greatly. There was such beauty in the words that Tolkien wrote. Every sentence was a jewel. The movies, though they are treasures as well, don't do the story justice. The books have such depth that I have never read anything comparable to them, save others of Tolkien's composition. But even of all those, I found the "Lord of the Rings" to be the most beautiful. They're a work of art.

The story is fascinating. The characters are exquisite. The entire work is full to the brim of exceptional qualities the equal of which I've never seen. Middle Earth itself comes alive when you explore the pages of Tolkien's work. The world is so detailed and complex. When I read the books, I fell in love with not only the characters, but with Middle Earth itself. I have only known one other book series that made me fall in love with the world, not just the characters, the "Chronicles of Narnia." I've read each series countless times, until Middle Earth and Narnia both grew to feel like home.

No other series has had such an impact on my life. (And believe me, I've read a lot.) If I hadn't read the books, then I may not have been inspired to create fictional worlds of my own and explore the depth of my imagination. And had I not chosen such a path, I would likely not have formed certain connections and friendships in my life that I treasure deeply. I'm happy to say such a beautiful piece of literature has influenced the course of my life so much.

"Lord of the Rings" is a gem among books and one I highly recommend to move to the top of your reading list (if you haven't read it already). It's a little long, so be patient. It's more than worth the effort.