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| Inklings of Frodo's Youth by Aunt Dora | 53 Review(s) |
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| Dreamflower | Reviewed Chapter: 1 on 9/8/2009 |
| Ah! A very different take on young Frodo and his time at Brandy Hall, pre-Bag End! While I have a hard time imagining that the grandson of one Master and the nephew of another, would be treated quite so cavalierly by his relatives, it's still an interesting and valid interpretation. I also found it somewhat disturbing that Bilbo had not been informed of Drogo's death-- after all, he was the head of the Baggins family, and propriety would seem to dictate that. But you put a good spin on it-- Bucklanders as suspicious of the Hobbits of Hobbiton as the other way around-- and I find myself curious to see how the scenario plays out. I really like your characterization of Bilbo in this. I especially like the thought that perhaps Bilbo did occasionally go with Gandalf on a jaunt outside the Shire from time to time. A very interesting idea-- and perhaps you will expand on that sometime. I was very touched by the little scene in which Frodo leaves the story-telling to do his duty serving Bilbo's luncheon, a neat bit of characterization that foreshadows his future sense of duty and responsibility. I also like your choice of author name; Aunt Dora is one of my favorites among the minor canon characters. Welcome to Stories of Arda, and our little group of hobbit-writers! Author Reply: You are right, Dreamflower, it is somewhat disturbing. I remember when I first read LOTR, back when I was 15, I had all sorts of questions about why, if Frodo was 12 when he was orphaned, did it take Bilbo 9 years to adopt him? And where were Dudo and Dora all that time? So when I sat down recently to think it through, I thought I'd consider the premise that they didn't even know about him and see where it led. It has the benefit of (possibly) never having been done before. I've always been extremely fond of Bilbo. He showed such wisdom and moral character in the Hobbit, and was game to carry the ring in the LOTR in spite of his age. I really enjoy writing about him. His developing relationship with Frodo will be forefront in the chapters but yes, I'll expand on his jaunts. What made me most curious about Frodo has long been the question of just what was it about him that caused Bilbo to adopt him and Merry,Pippin and Sam to go on his quest with him. That will be explored at length. I'm hoping the Stories of Arda group will like it in the long run. | |
| Larner | Reviewed Chapter: 1 on 9/7/2009 |
| Ah--Quite a different childhood from the one I've imagined, I must say; but a most intriguing one! I look forward to more! Author Reply: Thanks, Larner! I will do my best to keep it intriguing. | |
| shirebound | Reviewed Chapter: 1 on 9/7/2009 |
| What a creative way to explore this important time in Bilbo and Frodo's life. I really enjoyed this chapter, and look forward to more. Author Reply: I'm glad you are enjoying it, Shirebound. There's more in development. | |