Miremiel and I were talking today, and we got to thinking about the pull certain kinds of stories have. Why is a person attracted by a particular genre of literature, anyway? As we thought about it, we realized that it's a pretty deep topic to bring up, and we wanted your opinions. So, if you can, take time to answer and discuss these questions.

First off, why do you think you enjoyed LotR in the first place? The same question could apply to any fantasy book you've read (we're really thinking about the fantasy genre right now, though others could be discussed!)

Secondly, why do you keep coming back for more? What is it that makes LotR inspiring, and makes you want to read the book twice, three times, or even once a year?

Give a detailed description of why you love what you love. Narnia, Harry Potter, LotR, Chronicles of Narnia, or any other fantasy book applies. What is the common bond between such stories that makes us associate them together, other than the obvious "they're fantasy?"

We're looking forward to seeing your answers. We're posting this a few places to make sure everyone sees it!

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I am a Shieldmaiden for Christ!

I was Nienor before Nienor was cool. *nods coolly*
Kudos to Kitoky for the fabulous signature set, and art credit to engelszorn.
Who wants to join me in bringing back the lady?

Well, I've never quite thought about this, Nie.


I suppose the books that I've most often read are fantasy or science-fiction.

I suppose that the reason why I keep reading it is because other people recommend them. Thus prompts me to read them. Though then others say 'Hey! Read this' and it just ends up being another fantasy book. So I read it and I enjoy it. I think it's just the luck of the draw. I've been trying to get into more books lately like Pride and Prejudice or Heart of Darkness, which take on a more realistic feel to the story.

Fantasy and Science-fiction books stretches your sense of boundary on your mind, and it gives a broadened view about what your imagine and how wide you can imagine.

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Well... never read the books because I can't read long books like htat... my attention spann wanders WAY to easily.....


But Mostly what I like about books is something out of the ordinary... something new but inventive that has a sense of intrigue and mystry to it.


One of hte best books I have read (which probably no one has herd of) is Daybreak-
2250 A.D It is very different from most and I liked it very much.

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I look for originality, fantasy, and a good plot. if its a boring, over-used one, i won't even finish it.

also, i highly dislike books with lengthy discriptions. they just take up too much space that could be used in developing the characters or the plot.

I like fantasy because it's like a resort. it offers the kind of adventure and battles we don't get to experience in real life. my favorite fantasy books are usually the ones about a group of heroes, out to save the world... (sounds over-dramatic but that's the way I like it ).

What makes me remember particular books are 1. the characters. 2. the plot. 3. the symbolism.

believable, multi-dimensional characters with their own individual past, their own pains and joys and wisdom. you know you're reading a good book when there can be areas of no battles, or outward action but it still keeps you on the edge of your seat (subtle suspense). lastly, the small details that stand for something so much more than they seem. things such as the power of love and fear, and how the tiniest action can change someone's life forever. being introspective and somewhat into philosophy myself, I've always enjoyed interpreting the meanings of books.

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Things that draw me to a story: Characters that I can relate to, a unique plot, realistic action and dialogue, and some mystery. Not that the story has to be a mystery, but that there are some secrets that we don't find out all the answers to all at once. Also, I like a story to have themes like sacrifice, loyalty, betrayal, etc. I like to see how the characters respond. I like it when characers aren't "perfect". I like them to be realistic, having faults.
Since LOTR has all of those things^, I keep coming back to it and never get tired of it.

I don't like fantasy that is fantasy for the sake of being fantasy. I like books that use a fantasy world or setting as a medium to communicate something very human and universal and true, just as a more reality-based book would do. I think fantasy (when done right) is just a very artistic way of portraying a certain idea. It allows the mind to wander beyond the bounds of everyday life.

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"...that kind of music in general turns my stomach. It's nice that they do have fans, though." -Nienor

Mostly what draws people to a story in the cover. Right?

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Thank you ShadowCat. ♥ ♥

Not me, lil' hobbit! Sure, our eyes are naturally attracted to bright, catchy covers, but that's not why I read them.

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I am a Shieldmaiden for Christ!

I was Nienor before Nienor was cool. *nods coolly*
Kudos to Kitoky for the fabulous signature set, and art credit to engelszorn.
Who wants to join me in bringing back the lady?