Tolkien Reading Day: 4 Writing Lessons from J.R.R. Tolkien Every Author Should Know

From Edie: From Edie: Celebrate Tolkien Reading Day with five powerful writing lessons from J.R.R. Tolkien. Discover how imagination, faith, and life experience can strengthen your storytelling and inspire your writing journey.

Tolkien Reading Day: 4 Writing Lessons from J.R.R. Tolkien Every Author Should Know

by DiAnn Mills @DiAnnMills

Since 2003, March 25 has been celebrated as Tolkien Reading Day. J.R.R. Tolkien’s books have entertained and inspired readers since his first fantasy book, The Hobbit was published September 21, 1937. I found that he wrote this story for his children, just like so many of us begin our writing careers by creating something for our children. 

According to The Tolkien Society, “The 25th of March is the date of the downfall of the Lord of the Rings (Sauron) and the fall of Barad-dûr.” This year’s theme is Unlikely Heroes. His fascinating life story reveals the background of one of the world’s greatest writers. I encourage you to visit the Tolkien Society’s website and explore the many offerings available for Tolkien readers.

Tolkien’s quotes provide us a glimpse into his mind and heart, not only for writing but for hope, faith, and the betterment of our culture. 

“Not all those who wander are lost.”

“All that is gold does not glitter, Not all those who wander are lost.”

“End? No, the journey doesn't end here. Death is just another path, one that we all must take.”

The following two quotes are my favorites.

“All we have to decide is what to do with the time that is given us.” Gandalf. 

“Faithless is he that says farewell when the road darkens.”

Many of Tolkien’s quotes are available online. They are not to be rushed, but to be savored—read, reread, and etched into the core of our souls.

Many Lord of the Ring quotes are also available online.

Dear writer, what can Tolkien teach us about writing?

• 1. Never give up hope. “Courage is found in unlikely places.”

• 2. Reach deep within yourself for the core of your story. “You have been chosen, and you must therefore use such strength and heart and wits as you have.” 

• 3. Stretch your imagination and your skills to develop unforgettable characters thrust into the worst of circumstances. “A box without hinges, key, or lid, yet golden treasure inside is hid.”

• 4. Understand your life experiences form who you are and how you are purposed to write. “Still round the corner there may wait, A new road or a secret gate.

As writers, how can we observe Tolkien Reading Day?

• Read his books. Study the brilliant writing.

• Binge watch the movies. I’ve done this more than once.

• Gather a Fellowship at your home for a Tolkien party.

• Write the story of your heart. 

Today is a beautiful reminder of the power of the imagination to create worlds and people who leave their mark on our hearts. Who is your favorite Tolkien character?

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Tolkien Reading Day: 4 Writing Lessons from J.R.R. Tolkien Every Author Should Know from @DiAnnMills on @EdieMelson (Click to Tweet)

DiAnn Mills is a bestselling author who invites readers to expect an adventure—where heart-pounding suspense meets unforgettable romance and faith shines through every challenge. Known for crafting gripping plots and richly layered characters, DiAnn believes every breath we take unfolds a story waiting to be told—so why not make it thrilling?

Her novels have appeared on the CBA, ECPA, and Publishers Weekly bestseller lists and have earned numerous honors, including the Christy, Selah, Golden Scroll, Inspirational Readers’ Choice, and Carol Awards.

DiAnn is a founding board member of American Christian Fiction Writers and serves as Conference Advisor for the Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference. She is also active in Advanced Writers and Speakers Association, Mystery Writers of America, International Thriller Writers, the Jerry Jenkins Writers Guild, Outliers Writing University, and The Christian Pen. Passionate about helping others succeed, she invests in writers through mentoring, book coaching, editing, and dynamic workshops she teaches across the country.

A self-proclaimed coffee snob who roasts her own beans, DiAnn enjoys diving into good books, experimenting in the kitchen, and unabashedly spoiling her grandchildren—whom she insists are the smartest kids in the universe. She makes her home under the sunny skies of Houston, Texas.

Connect with DiAnn for behind-the-scenes glimpses, writing tips, and lively conversations at diannmills.com, or on Facebook, X, Instagram, Pinterest, Goodreads, BookBub, YouTube, and LinkedIn.