Weren’t they just discussing blocking out the sun..?

You’re certainly on the right track. I only cold brew occasionally, but almost always use 1:6 coffee to water and dilute 1:2 afterward with either ice or hot water, depending on my preference. It’s also what I use when expecting overnight houseguests. Start with 1:8 or 1:6 and experiment thereupon if you feel up for it.

For an indulgent treat, add sweetened condensed milk!

The link is only pulling up the hardcover Hobbit edition with the Lonely Mountain illustration, but I have the hardcover pocket set with that Hobbit and it’s absolutely charming. If you want to preserve the dust jacket make sure you remove it during reading, but you’ll certainly be well served.

I’ve read them in paperback, hardcover, and the pocket size editions and from a physical handling perspective most enjoyed the pocket size with the faux-leather covers. However, the font was small so if that’s a concern best avoid. Generally I prefer reading paperbacks as I like to manhandle my books and will purchase hardcover editions for cherishing afterward. When I next decide to reread LOTR it’ll be with the pocket softcover editions, particularly as they fit so well in my smaller bags. Unfortunately I don’t have any paperback edition recommendations as I haven’t purchased one in ten years or so.