Foreword (by John Callen)Introduction - A Tale or Two to TellChapter 1: The Slopes of Mount SundayChapter 2: Never Got To WeddingChapter 3: A Whole New WorldChapter 4: A Book for ChildrenChapter 5: Searching for the PreciousChapter 6: One Movie to Rule Them AllChapter 7: Across the Encircling SeasChapter 8: Seeking Middle-earthChapter 9: Back There AgainChapter 10: Loss and RespiteChapter 11: A Whole New TribeChapter 12: A Fellowship BeginsChapter 13: A Unique Fan ExperienceChapter 14: Not All Who Wander Are LostChapter 15: A World PremiereChapter 16: Celebrations to RememberChapter 17: Uber FanChapter 18: All Paths Lead to 'The Green Dragon'Chapter 19: In a Hole in the GroundChapter 20: Following the Road AgainChapter 21: Dreams and MemoriesChapter 22: Something Tookish Woke Inside MeChapter 23: A Memorable HonourChapter 24 Estel-Faith in HopeAcknowledgementsAbout the AuthorAn 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.