The Safe Pages Rating
Romance
There are some romantic stories, including Beren and Luthien, which is probably the most famous love story in Tolkein’s world. However, the romantic aspect is not detailed at all, characters barely even speak to each other. The book is a high level overview of some of the romances that take place.
Violence
There is a lot of violence, although it is not detailed. Brothers kill and betray each other, people are eaten by werewolves, giant spiders destroy trees, ships and buildings are burned, people fling themselves into the sea, and many other violent actions. Each of these instances happens in a sentence or two, but there is violence.
Language
There were no swear words or any other harsh language. It had very mild language, which was probably due to the book reading like a history book.
Drugs and Alcohol
There was not any drugs and alcohol. In some of Tolkein’s other works ale or other drinks are mentioned, but because the Silmarillion is more a history book of middle earth, there was not any alcohol mentioned.
Diversity
There were valar (a lot like angels), elves, men, dwarves, halflings, spiders, werewolves, belrogs, and a lot of other type of beings throughout. There was a lot of diversity of characters, but not like we have in our world.
Demographic
I would suggest this book to any man or woman who is a strong reader and appreciates Tolkein’s world. I had no problem reading it, but I would have if I had read it in middle school when I read Tolkein’s other works. Those that have read historic documents will have an easier time reading The Silmarillion, but if someone has read mostly easy books, this one might be a challenge. The story is good for anyone, but the reading level is fairly difficult.
Storyline
The storyline is great. I have read many history books and the Bible many times through, and The Silmarillion read similar to those but for a fantasy world. I thought the story was interesting and learning about the family lines kept me engaged. I can appreciate a book with a lot of happenings and not many details. I like Tolkein and this book had been on my list for a long time and I am glad that I finally read it!
The Safe Pages Rating System
Content Unsuitable
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Safe Pages Approved!