"Ecocriticism has evolved into a multidisciplinary approach that takes many forms, and Lehning's analysis provides an example of a productive blending of ecocriticism and mythological study. Her accessible, clearly written book makes a significant contribution to Tolkien studies, especially through its explorations of the broader cultural significance of Tolkien's conception of wilderness." --CHOICE

"The Map of Wilderland contains a valuable analysis of some of the most important literary influences of Tolkien's fiction. Lehning's source analysis not only has worth in itself but enhances the reader's understanding of that vast and complex landscape known as Middle-earth. .... Lehning's take on the contemporary relevance of Tolkien's myth is an original and thought-provoking reflection on the power that mythopoetic art - literature in particular - has in shaping our understanding of who we are and what our place is on Earth." --Journal of Inklings Studies

"Drawing on ecocritical perspectives, comparative mythological approaches, and source criticism of key texts--both Tolkien's own and also others that impacted the creation of Middle-earth--Lehning's The Map of Wilderland maintains that Tolkien's legendarium and its stories can be adopted to help counter harmful narratives that have led to ecological destruction and catastrophe in the primary world. .... Lehning makes several sound arguments regarding myth, wilderness, and the highly important intersections between them, particularly in a day and age of increasing environmental catastrophe that requires immediate, collective action to have any hope of redressing." --Mythlore

"In this book, Amber Lehning shows herself to be an intelligent, sensitive, and courageous guide to Middle-earth. She ably explores Tolkien's ecological vision, including its cultural, historical, and literary dimensions, both in detail and in its broader contexts. The result is a triumph of both Tolkien studies and ecocritical scholarship." --Patrick Curry, author of Defending Middle-earth: Tolkien: Myth and Modernity