About the Story
First published in the Dublin Review in January 1945 and later in his collection Tree and Leaf (which also included the essay “On Fairy Stories”), Tolkien’s account of a curmudgeonly but kind-hearted painter and his unfinished masterpiece is a perfect companion to our own unique creative journeys. It’s also a perfect story for us to read together as we think more deeply about the role of creativity within our Christian communities.
About the Course
Hosted by Jennifer Trafton, this reading group will provide a space for contemplation and conversation as we prepare our hearts and imaginations for the Rabbit Room’s Hutchmoot Homebound conference, culminating in a lecture by Tolkien scholar Matthew Dickerson on “The Artist and Community.” Join anytime—the materials and discussion forum will be available starting October 1 and stay open indefinitely.
All Hutchmoot attendees will receive a free copy of “Leaf by Niggle” either in their Moot Kits or as a digital download. The story is also included in The Tolkien Reader, available through the Rabbit Room store. Other recommended reading for this group includes Tolkien’s essay “On Fairy Stories,” also in The Tolkien Reader.
Hutchmoot attendees will be able to watch Matthew Dickerson’s lecture and participate in a live Zoom Q&A with Matthew on Saturday, October 10.
Do I have to attend Hutchmoot in order to join the reading group?
No! This group is open to everyone! After the conference ends, Matthew Dickerson’s lecture and a recording of the Q&A will be archived here, and the discussion forum will be open indefinitely for new book group registrants to continue reading and discussing the story.