The Hobbit by J.R.R. Tolkien

Fantasy. 306 Pages. 5 Stars

Synopsis:

When Thorin Oakenshield and his band of dwarves embark upon a dangerous quest to reclaim the hoard of gold stolen from them by the evil dragon Smaug, Gandalf the wizard suggests an unlikely accomplice: Bilbo Baggins, an unassuming Hobbit dwelling in peaceful Hobbiton. 

Along the way, the company faces trolls, goblins, giant spiders, and worse. But as they journey from the wonders of Rivendell to the terrors of Mirkwood and beyond, Bilbo will find that there is more to him than anyone–himself included–ever dreamed. Unexpected qualities of courage and cunning, and a love of adventure, propel Bilbo toward his great destiny…a destiny that waits in the dark caverns beneath the Misty Mountains, where a twisted creature known as Gollum jealously guards a precious magic ring.

My Review:

This is a classic for a reason. I’m not sure I need say much, honestly. My grandfather read this to me when I was a child and I recently reread it for myself.

This is your classic adventure. The whole story hops from one adventure to another. It’s more of a journey, a string of adventures, than just one overall adventure. The plot follows a group of dwarves on a quest to reclaim their birthright. They’re accompanied by one, initially reluctant, but eventually wholeheartedly devoted hobbit, and occasionally a wise and cheeky wizard. They deal with elves of various natures, kind and inviting and menacing and proud. They cross trolls and goblins, giant spiders and creatures without name. They deal with humans and animals alike. They trudge across a vast expanse of land, through danger after danger, and persist on through their journey for their heritage.

The setting for this is so completely complex. This is possibly the most developed world in all of literature’s history. One of my favorite things about Tolkien’s works is his worldbuilding. We’re set in a fantastical world, full of diverse creatures and cultures to match. The laws and governments are realistic and pertinent to the plot more times than not. The cultures are developed and so very different from each other. They create a whole new layer to the world. The landscape is even varied drastically, which keeps the reader engaged and allows for many different plot elements.

The characters are by far some of my very favorites. They’re just another part of what makes this book so memorable. They display heroism, bravery, unwaverying loyalty, and complete folly. Just as with the worldbuilding, they characters are a complete array, a diverse and entirely complex cast. From faithful and innocent Bilbo to the perverted and corrupted creature called Gollum, from the stubborn and loyal, though greedy at times, Thorin to the comical Bombur and entergetic Fili and Kili. From the grand, mysterious Gandalf to the regal and wise Elrond. The characters grow together, and development is my weakness. I melt into a puddle for a brotherhood who grows together and is loyal until the very end.

Of course, the book is brilliantly written. Tolkien’s style is so unique. He writes in the most common sense way, always getting the most particular points across. His descriptions are universal and…well, quaint. In fact, that’s the best word to describe the book, aside from heart-warming, quaint.

Highly recommended. This is a must read for any bookworm. Even if you aren’t all that into fantasy or adventure, this is a book that is well-written, and it will continue to stand the test of time for its brilliance.

No foul language, no romance, and very mild violence.

More: 

The first book in the Lord of the Rings trilogy is The Fellowship of the Ring (5 Stars)

The second book is The Two Towers

The third book is The Return of the King

The Hobbit is considered a companion novel and a prequel; and though it can be read as a standalone, I would highly recommend reading it in tandem with the others. There are many books that take place in and about Tolkien’s Middle Earth Universe.

Check out the links above for more info on each book!

On GraceBought:

Check out my thoughts on the classic LOTR trilogy below!

The Fellowship of the Ring