Mass Market Paperback, 287 pages
English language
Published Feb. 1, 1977 by Ballantine Books.
Bilbo Baggins was a hobbit who wanted to be left alone in quiet comfort. But the wizard Gandalf came along with a band of homeless dwarves. Soon Bilbo was drawn into their quest, facing evil orcs, savage wolves, giant spiders, and worse unknown dangers. Finally, it was Bilbo-alone and unaided-who had to confront the great dragon Smaug, the terror of an entire countryside.
The Hobbit has always been my least favorite book about Middle Earth, and the story hasn't changed after this re-reading. The graphic novel might make it more approachable for certain people, but I'm not blown away by it, either.
Although not a part of his epic "Lord of the Rings" trilogy, J.R.R. Tolkien arguably wrote his finest work as a precursor to the 3-part opus, a prequel known as "The Hobbit." Tolkien narrows the scope of the "Lord of the Rings" series to specific individuals fifty or so years prior to the events surrounding the War of the Ring. This specific narrative focuses on a hobbit by the name of Bilbo Baggins and his absolutely ridiculous adventures with a dozen dwarves and the mysterious Gandalf the Grey. As usual, Tolkien's trademark details make an appearance, painting a beautiful picture of Middle-Earth, the setting for this magnificent prequel. Bilbo's story is just as engrossing as his nephew, Frodo's, and this novel's finest success is in its perfect wit, stunning detail, and captivating story. "The Hobbit" is a book that helped redefine the genre of fantasy and science fiction forever.
