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The Hobbit Book Review > TL;DR
The Hobbit by J.R.R. Tolkien remains a timeless classic, blending light-hearted adventure with deeper themes of courage, greed, and personal growth. Originally written for children, it follows Bilbo Baggins, a quiet hobbit whose journey to reclaim a treasure from the dragon Smaug transforms him into an unlikely hero. The novel’s episodic structure, rich world-building, and memorable characters have ensured its enduring popularity across generations. Readers drawn to fantasy, mythology, or coming-of-age tales will find much to enjoy. The Hobbit is as much about facing inner fears as battling external foes, making it an essential read for both new and returning visitors to Middle-earth.
First Thoughts
I first encountered The Hobbit around the age of ten. Despite my eagerness to immerse myself in stories, I often struggled with reading – painfully slow, skipping sections here and there. Yet, vivid memories of Bilbo’s adventures stuck with me. I still have the copy I appropriated from my eldest brother, his name scrawled out in red pen, replaced with my own.
Over the years, I’ve heard criticisms: that The Hobbit is whimsical, childish, or overrun with now-familiar fantasy clichés. But those tropes originated here. What stands out on rereading is its extraordinary readability and brisk pacing. Middle-earth in this outing feels thin, yet that simplicity keeps the story focused and comprehensible.
The notable flaw is the absence of female characters. As someone raising daughters who love to read, I’ve seen first-hand the barrier this can present. It’s a missed opportunity. Still, two of my daughters read and loved it despite that gap.
There’s nostalgia, not just for my own childhood, but for a simpler mythical world without technology, guided by magic and adventure. The Hobbit remains an accessible and enjoyable classic, one I’d recommend especially to younger readers still holding onto innocence.
About the Book
First published in 1937 by George Allen & Unwin, The Hobbit was J.R.R. Tolkien’s first foray into the world of Middle-earth, predating The Lord of the Rings. Initially written for his children, the novel introduces readers to Bilbo Baggins, a hobbit living a quiet life in the Shire until the wizard Gandalf and thirteen dwarves invite him on a quest.
Their aim: reclaim the Lonely Mountain and its treasure from Smaug, a mighty dragon. Along the way, Bilbo and company face trolls, goblins, spiders, and wolves. A pivotal encounter sees Bilbo winning a magical ring from the creature Gollum – an item that would later shape Tolkien’s larger legendarium.
The novel’s tone is lighter and more episodic than its epic sequel. Its structure mirrors oral storytelling traditions, with distinct adventures leading up to the climactic Battle of the Five Armies. Tolkien’s love of nature and distaste for industrialisation echo through settings like the Shire and the desolation around the Lonely Mountain. The scenes describing Mirkwood could have been taken straight from Otherlands.
Bilbo’s transformation from timid homebody to courageous adventurer forms the heart of the story. Themes of heroism, greed, friendship, and the corrupting nature of wealth are woven throughout, making it far more than a simple children’s tale.
What Others Think
Across reviews, The Hobbit is consistently praised as a foundational work of modern fantasy. In Fantasy Book Review, the book is described as light-hearted yet profound, with unforgettable characters like Bilbo, Gandalf, and Gollum. The reviewer highlights its universal appeal to both children and adults and recommends illustrated editions for enhanced enjoyment.
Another perspective from Weekend Notes delves into Tolkien’s rich world-building and moral depth. While some critics have noted the novel’s episodic nature as a limitation, most agree it captures essential fantasy themes like the hero’s journey and the corrupting influence of greed. The character development of Bilbo and Thorin, as well as the symbolic roles of artefacts like the Arkenstone and the ring, receive particular attention.
A third take in Fantasy Reviews focuses on The Hobbit’s role as a perfect introduction to Tolkien’s wider works. The warmth and wit of the writing, especially in chapters involving Gollum and Beorn, are singled out. Although Rivendell could have been expanded upon, the storytelling’s charm and depth outweigh any minor shortcomings.
In all, readers agree that The Hobbit is not just a precursor to The Lord of the Rings but a standalone classic that deserves its own spotlight.
Themes, Style & Impact
At its core, The Hobbit is about personal transformation. Bilbo’s journey exemplifies the classic hero’s arc: starting from fear and reluctance, he discovers courage and resourcefulness. Tolkien deliberately subverts the traditional notion of heroism by casting a small, unassuming hobbit as the protagonist, relying on wit and integrity rather than strength.
Greed’s corrupting power is another central theme. Through characters like Thorin and Smaug, Tolkien shows how the lust for wealth can lead to downfall. Bilbo’s decision to refuse his share of the treasure stands as a quiet counterpoint, highlighting humility and generosity.
The novel also explores cooperation across differences. Dwarves, elves, men, and hobbits must set aside disputes to confront shared threats, echoing broader social ideals of unity and tolerance.
Stylistically, The Hobbit’s narrator adopts a light-hearted, almost conversational tone. This makes it accessible to younger readers while layering in deeper reflections for adults. Tolkien’s descriptions are vivid but economical, capturing the feel of places like the Shire and Mirkwood without overwhelming the reader.
Its impact on fantasy literature is immeasurable. The Hobbit laid the groundwork for an entire genre, influencing everything from Harry Potter to Dungeons & Dragons. It remains a gateway into Tolkien’s larger Legendarium and has permeated popular culture through countless adaptations.
The Hobbit by J R R Tolkien > Final Thoughts
Revisiting The Hobbit always feels like returning to a familiar, comforting place. While it may lack the complexity and gravitas of The Lord of the Rings, its charm lies in its simplicity and clarity of purpose. Bilbo’s story is one of quiet bravery and growth, making it universally relatable.
Yes, there are limitations – particularly the absence of female characters, something that stands out today. But that shouldn’t overshadow its lasting merits: tight plotting, engaging prose, and timeless themes.
For anyone embarking on a journey through Booker Prize winners or fantasy classics alike, The Hobbit deserves a place on the list. It’s best approached as a children’s book with adult wisdom tucked inside – a story about finding adventure in the everyday and courage where you least expect it.
Further Reading
- The Lord of the Rings by J.R.R. Tolkien – Expands upon the world and characters introduced in The Hobbit.
- The Silmarillion by J.R.R. Tolkien – Explores the deeper mythology and history of Middle-earth.
- The Earthsea Quartet by Ursula K. Le Guin – Another classic fantasy series with themes of heroism and self-discovery.
- Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone by J.K. Rowling – Shares The Hobbit’s blend of fantasy and coming-of-age storytelling.
- Beowulf (translated by Seamus Heaney) – A work that influenced Tolkien’s writing style and mythic themes.