Which novel by J.R.R. Tolkien was voted Britain's best-loved in 2003?

Okay, let's delve into why "The Lord of the Rings" is the correct answer here. J.R.R. Tolkien's epic fantasy saga holds a special place in British literary history and popular culture. Tolkien, a professor at Oxford University, published "The Lord of the Rings" in three volumes between 1954 and 1955. While initially receiving mixed reviews, the books gained immense popularity in the 1960s, particularly among students. The story's themes of good versus evil, friendship, and the corrupting influence of power resonated deeply. In 2003, the BBC conducted a nationwide poll called "The Big Read" to determine Britain's best-loved novel. "The Lord of the Rings" emerged victorious, beating out a wide range of classic and contemporary works. This reflects the enduring appeal of Tolkien's creation and its significant impact on British readers. While "Oliver Twist" by Charles Dickens is a classic of Victorian literature, and "Pride and Prejudice" by Jane Austen is a beloved romance, neither achieved the same level of widespread popularity in this specific poll. James Bond, while iconic, is a character featured in a series of novels, not a single novel title.
Imagine the One Ring, so beloved it topped the charts as Britain's favorite novel.