Life-affirming and heart-wrenching: Royd Tolkien's memoirs tracing the footsteps of his late brother and his world-famous great-grandfather, J. R. R. Tolkien.

When Mike Tolkien dies at just 39 from the nerve disease ALS, Royd's world shatters. The time for shared adventures is over for the two great-grandsons of J. R. R. Tolkien.

But daredevil Mike leaves cautious Royd a list of fifty tasks: a bucket list. The unusual challenges take Royd back to New Zealand, where "The Lord of the Rings" was filmed. It is the perfect setting for Mike's tasks, which push Royd to the limits of his courage each time—and then allow him to celebrate life afterward. Just as Mike wanted.

This is the story of Royd Tolkien's difficult, joyful, and emotional journey that helps him grow beyond himself, reminding him not only of a great loss but also of the love for his brother—and the importance of savoring every moment in life.