Best known for his epic Lord of the Rings trilogy and The Hobbit, J.R.R. Tolkien was born in British-occupied South Africa. His early life was full of action and adventure. Tolkien spent his childhood roaming the British countryside with his family and could read and write by age four. He was naturally gifted with languages and used this skill as a signals officers in World War II as well as in his fantasy writing. By creating alternate universes and inventing languages in his work he demonstrated that imaginary realms were not just for children. Fondly remembered as the "Father of High Fantasy," Tolkien's books have inspired blockbuster movies and legions of fans.
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Pamela Pollock and Meg Belviso are authors of several books for children and reside in New York, New York.
Stephen Marchesi has illustrated several titles in the Who Was? series and lives in Croton-on-Hudson, New York.
Nancy Harrison lives in Allentown, Pennsylvania.
More about Pam PollackPamela Pollack and Meg Belviso are authors of several books in this series, including Who is George Lucas? and Who Was Susan B. Anthony?
More about Meg BelvisoGail Herman has written several biographies and nonfiction books, including Who Was Jackie Robinson? and What Is the World Series?
John Hinderliter is an award-winning illustrator and fine artist living in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
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