The Two Towers: Being the Second Part of The Lord of the Rings
J.R.R. Tolkien
📚 Genre
Epic Fantasy / High Fantasy
🏢 Publisher
Mariner Books (Houghton Mifflin Harcourt)
📅 Publication Year
2012 (First published 1954)
🔢 ISBN
9780544338029
About This Book
The second volume of J.R.R. Tolkien's high fantasy masterpiece. Following the breaking of the Fellowship, Merry and Pippin are captured by Orcs, Aragorn, Legolas, and Gimli pursue them through Rohan, and Frodo and Sam continue their journey to Mount Doom guided by the treacherous Gollum. The cover features minimalist black and gold iconography of the Ring and the two fortresses (Orthanc and Barad-dur/Cirith Ungol) designed by Tolkien himself.
Book Details
Language
English
Pages
352
Edition
Trade Paperback Edition
Series
The Lord of the Rings, Book 2 of 3
Target Audience
Adult / Young Adult
Collector Information
Condition
Very Good. The binding appears tight, the cover is clean with sharp corners, and there is no visible spine creasing or shelf wear.
Estimated Value
$10-$18
Rarity
Common. This is a widely available modern trade paperback edition found in most major bookstores and online retailers.
Historical Significance
A foundational text of the modern fantasy genre, defining the tropes and scope of 'High Fantasy.' It has been adapted into multiple media, most notably Peter Jackson's Oscar-winning film trilogy.
Collector Notes
This edition is primarily for reading rather than investment. If collecting for value, look for the first edition, first impressions published by Allen & Unwin (1954). For this specific copy, maintain its value by keeping the matte-finish cover away from skin oils and direct sunlight to prevent fading of the black ink.
Similar Books
The Silmarillion by J.R.R. Tolkien, A Game of Thrones by George R.R. Martin, The Wheel of Time by Robert Jordan, The Name of the Wind by Patrick Rothfuss
Notable Features
Includes a reproduction of J.R.R. Tolkien's original cover art and the Red Eye/One Ring motif. Often sold together as part of a three-volume softcover set.