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Farmer Giles of Ham is a light-hearted medieval fable by J. R. R. Tolkien, originally published by George Allen & Unwin. Tolkien tells the story of the unlikely hero, Farmer Giles (Ægidius Ahenobarbus Julius Agricola de Hammo), a humble villager who inadvertently becomes a legend after dealing with a wayward giant and later, a dragon named Chrysophylax.
The tale combines whimsical humour, fantasy tropes and subtle satire. Giles, neither brave nor refined, is handed an old, unfashionable sword by his king which turns out to be the dragon-slaying "Tailbiter." Though the dragon tries to deceive him, Giles uses his wits (and a little luck) to force a truce, resulting in unexpected rewards and a surprising rise in status. The story is illustrated throughout with gentle line work by Pauline Baynes (also original cover artist), which adds charm and character to the narrative.
Though this copy is a later print (1973) but the core appeal remains: a funny, warm tale that appeals to both younger readers and adults. It's perfect for Tolkien fans interested in his more playful, non-Middle-earth writing.
