In 2003, which novel by JRR Tolkien was named the country's most beloved?

Okay, let's talk about why "The Lord of the Rings" is considered the UK's most beloved novel. J.R.R. Tolkien, the author, was a professor at Oxford University, and his fantasy world of Middle-earth has deeply resonated with British readers for generations. The story, published in three volumes in 1954 and 1955, is an epic saga of good versus evil, featuring hobbits, elves, dwarves, and the iconic One Ring. In 2003, the BBC conducted a nationwide poll called "The Big Read" to determine the UK's favourite book. While the other options are well-regarded novels, they simply don't have the same cultural impact or widespread appeal as Tolkien's masterpiece. "The Lord of the Rings" won by a landslide, demonstrating its enduring popularity and its place in the hearts of the British public. It's a testament to the power of storytelling and the enduring appeal of fantasy literature.