“To hear the book read in other people’s voices creates a different kind of engagement. And of course, it’s a chance to celebrate—to bring some of that hobbit-like joy, with food, storytelling, and maybe even a bit of costume and performance.”
Dordt University will host a marathon reading of The Fellowship of the Ring on Wednesday, March 25, inviting students and community members alike to take part in a daylong celebration of J.R.R. Tolkien’s beloved work.
The event will take place in Eckardt Lounge beginning at 8 a.m. and continuing until the book is completed. Participants may sign up to read aloud for 15-minute segments or simply stop by to listen. Attendees are also encouraged to dress as their favorite characters and enjoy snacks throughout the day.
The reading coincides with Tolkien Reading Day, an annual observance organized by the Tolkien Society. This year’s theme, “unlikely heroes,” highlights one of the central ideas of Tolkien’s writing.
Howard Schaap, professor of English at Dordt and organizer of the event, noted that hearing the novel read aloud in many different voices creates a unique experience for participants.
“It’s just a nice communal experience,” he says. “To hear the book read in other people’s voices creates a different kind of engagement. And of course, it’s a chance to celebrate—to bring some of that hobbit-like joy, with food, storytelling, and maybe even a bit of costume and performance.”
The event is designed to welcome both dedicated Tolkien fans and those simply curious about the story. By opening participation to the broader community, organizers hope to demonstrate how literature can connect people across different backgrounds and experiences.
“Tolkien fans tend to be pretty passionate,” Schaap says. “It’s meaningful for students to see that this kind of love for reading and for Middle Earth extends beyond the classroom—that it’s something that brings people together.”
Beyond its festive atmosphere, Schaap believes Tolkien’s work continues to resonate because of its deeper themes.
“We need more people who are ‘unlikely heroes,’” he says. “People who value things like friendship, humility, and joy over power or wealth—and who are willing to do what’s right to preserve those things.”
Organizers encourage participants to sign up in advance but emphasize that both readers and listeners are welcome to attend at any time throughout the day. There will be a break for chapel at 11 a.m.
“Sign up to read if you can—but if not, just come and listen. Come be part of it,” adds Schaap.
About Dordt University
As an institution of higher education committed to the Reformed Christian perspective, Dordt University equips students, faculty, alumni, and the broader community to work toward Christ-centered renewal in all aspects of contemporary life. Located in Sioux Center, Iowa, Dordt is a comprehensive university named to the best college lists by U.S. News and World Report, the Wall Street Journal, Times Higher Education, Forbes.com, Washington Monthly, and Princeton Review.
As part of the Joan Ringerwole Organ Recital Series, Christiaan Teeuwsen—organist, teacher, and pedagogue from Ontario, Canada—will give a recital and lead several masterclasses on Saturday, March 28.
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