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The Lord of the Rings

by J. R. R. Tolkien · 1954

J. R. R. Tolkien's epic fantasy novel cycle, named by Peter Thiel as his classic favorite novel in Conversations with Tyler.

Why this author is included

J. R. R. Tolkien · Novelist and philologist

Who recommends it

1 person has recommended The Lord of the Rings. Each entry links to the source.

The classic one I always give is Lord of the Rings.

Recommended · Exact quote Source: Conversations with Tyler

Evidence details

Peter Thiel on Stagnation, Innovation, and What Not To Name Your Company

Tyler Cowen asked Thiel for his favorite novel; Thiel named The Lord of the Rings as the classic answer he gives.

The quote is taken word for word from the source.

Conversations with Tyler · episode transcript page accessed 2026-06-23 · accessed 2026-06-23

Transcript · Interview transcript

In the transcript, Cowen asks Thiel for his favorite novel and Thiel answers that the classic one he always gives is Lord of the Rings.

What the author has done, shown separately from who recommends the book.

J. R. R. TolkienNovelist and philologist

Author of The Lord of the Rings.