The Hobbit - new edition

As we near the release date for Peter Jackson's next visit to Middle-Earth (The Hobbit in December) the book will increase in popularity.

Though the jacket for the new edition does not show a shot from the film (still very much under wraps) it shows a younger Bilbo Baggins just stepping out from Bag End and beyond him, the village of Hobbiton in The Shire.

I am lucky enough to have been to Hobbiton and find, as I gaze at the new jacket, that I am quite moved, but then I'm a big softy.

It really is a great looking edition and the advice on its face bears thinking about.

THE HOBBIT - READ IT BEFORE YOU SEE IT.

But then, I suppose, as Gildor once said    '... advice is a dangerous gift, even from the wise, to the wise...'

Hobbit Country

Discovered, on looking in on Twitter, that Ian Brodie has been out and about with his camera again. Some amazing shots of New Zealand included in a wide ranging portfolio on http://www.ianbrodiephoto.net 

The views round Hobbiton, Matamata, are enough to bring tears to my eyes. See my feeble effort shot through the car window and compare. Hunt around on his site for some beautiful shots.

Ian has a new edition of his book on the film locations due out soon. Don't visit NZ without it!

Pop in again Ian, next time you pass through.