Christopher John Reuel Tolkien was an English and naturalised French academic editor renowned as the son of the famed author and academic J. R. R. Tolkien. He diligently edited much of his father's posthumously published work, including The Silmarillion and the comprehensive 12-volume series The History of Middle-Earth, also contributing one volume of indices. His editorial contributions provided vital insights and continuity to the rich literary legacy left by his father.

Not only a guardian of his father's written heritage, but Christopher Tolkien also showcased his cartographic skills by drawing the original maps for The Lord of the Rings, which he signed as C. J. R. T. He ventured into editing beyond his father's writings, exemplified by his work on three tales by Geoffrey Chaucer, in collaboration with Nevill Coghill, and his father's translation of Sir Gawain and the Green Knight.