An autobiography and memoir by Peter Kenny, a retired teacher from Australia, chronicling loss and trauma, and the hope and community he found through Tolkien's world. “My Unexpected Journey is a remarkable piece of work for which the writer himself thanks Tolkien. I recommend this memoir highly. You will love the book; you will love the man.” – John Callen, actor and director. In 1971, recuperating from a horrific car accident, Peter Kenny received his first copy of The Hobbit. After surviving life-shattering trauma, Peter found consolation and hope in Tolkien’s words. So began a lifelong journey in fandom, lifting him from despair towards healing. Peter followed his passion for Middle-earth, finding fellowship and connection across the globe. My Unexpected Journey chronicles Peter’s adventures, from his days as a schoolteacher reading tales of hobbits, to becoming a recognised speaker on Tolkien. Over the decades, Peter witnessed The Lord of the Rings go from cult book to pop culture phenomenon. His travels led him to far-flung locations and enabled him to form life-long friendships with actors from Peter Jackson’s films as well as renowned scholars. A memoir and personal reflection on overcoming adversity, My Unexpected Journey is a heartfelt ode to J. R. R. Tolkien and the people who love his work, inviting readers to find the courage to endure even against impossible odds. An autobiography and memoir by Peter Kenny, a retired teacher from Australia, chronicling loss and trauma, and the hope and community he found through Tolkien's world. Foreword (by John Callen) Introduction - A Tale or Two to Tell Chapter 1: The Slopes of Mount Sunday Chapter 2: Never Got To Wedding Chapter 3: A Whole New World Chapter 4: A Book for Children Chapter 5: Searching for the Precious Chapter 6: One Movie to Rule Them All Chapter 7: Across the Encircling Seas Chapter 8: Seeking Middle-earth Chapter 9: Back There Again Chapter 10: Loss and Respite Chapter 11: A Whole New Tribe Chapter 12: A Fellowship Begins Chapter 13: A Unique Fan Experience Chapter 14: Not All Who Wander Are Lost Chapter 15: A World Premiere Chapter 16: Celebrations to Remember Chapter 17: Uber Fan Chapter 18: All Paths Lead to 'The Green Dragon' Chapter 19: In a Hole in the Ground Chapter 20: Following the Road Again Chapter 21: Dreams and Memories Chapter 22: Something Tookish Woke Inside Me Chapter 23: A Memorable Honour Chapter 24 Estel-Faith in Hope Acknowledgements About the Author