What a beautiful and timeless story! This book is a collection of Tolkien's writings that illustrate the development of this story from its very beginnings in the authors mind. If you are not at least somewhat familiar with Tolkien's Silmarilion, then there will be a bit of a learning curve in familiarizing yourself with Beleriand and early Elvish history. Fortunately that is covered in the early part of the book - just make sure to pay attention and don't skip over it! Enjoy this beautiful work of literature!