Tree and Leaf was published in 1964 as a volume containing “On Fairy-Stories” and “Leaf by Niggle.”
The book combines Tolkien’s influential essay on fantasy with a short allegorical story. “On Fairy-Stories” developed ideas about fantasy, recovery, escape, and consolation, while “Leaf by Niggle” follows an artist whose ambitious work is repeatedly interrupted by ordinary obligations. Together, the pieces show Tolkien discussing and practicing the kind of imaginative literature he valued.
The volume also included the poem “The Adventures of Tom Bombadil” in some editions and arrangements, so contents can vary between editions. “On Fairy-Stories” originated as a lecture Tolkien delivered at the University of St Andrews in 1938, later published in revised form. Tree and Leaf should not be confused with Tolkien’s separate collection The Tolkien Reader, which was issued in the United States in 1966.