content: The book and current film have some similarities, however, when dealing with the book one faces oddities:Where does the epic begin and the children's tale end?One can see Tolkien's style changing as the book goes on.The 'songs' (chants?) are somewhat offputting. I was unsure of what to make of them.As far as the Tom Bombadil character: What is his purpose? Is he symbolizing something or an error in the plot?A long work, yes? The films are visually extraordinary, but I wonder if NOT reading the books puts one at a disadvantage when seeing them (the films)."The Shadow of the Past" chapter is probably the best in this first book of the trilogy inasmuch as it explains a great deal of background.Personally I prefer the third book "Return of the King".