Halfway through The Fellowship of the Ring, and it’s clear why this book is such a beloved classic. The first half is rich with atmosphere and slow, deliberate world-building. It's really taking its time laying the groundwork for the epic journey ahead. I thought it was interesting that we started the book with the history of Hobbits (like the kind of doors & windows they like lmao). The Shire felt warm and familiar, while the looming threat of the Ring grows steadily darker and more urgent. I’m especially enjoying the growing camaraderie among the characters, even as the tone shifts from lighthearted beginnings to something much more weighty. It’s definitely a slower read at times, but there’s something really special about sinking into Tolkien’s detailed, mythic world. So far I'm glad I watched the movies first as it's helping me visualize everything and Andy Serkis is an amazing narrator, I can't help but think he has the other actors hiding in the studio with him to say their lines because sometimes he sounds just like them.