The Hobbit by J.R.R. Tolkien
Reviewed by: Jacob Roberts, Reference Assistant
Genre: Fantasy
Suggested Age: All Ages
What is the book about?: When the wizard Gandalf and a group of dwarves make an unexpected visit to the ordinary hobbit-hole of Bilbo Baggins, he is soon forced out of his comfortable life. After much deliberation, Bilbo finds himself embarking on a treacherous journey to help the dwarves claim back their treasures from a dragon called Smaug the Magnificent. Along the way they encounter many adversities, from goblins to giant man eating—or rather dwarf eating—spiders. Although in the beginning neither he nor the dwarves believe him much of any use, he soon stumbles upon a creature named Gollum and his “precious” ring. Bilbo eventually obtains it, and soon proves his worth on the journey as a “good” thief, helping them to trek across Middle earth to the layer of the tyrannical dragon.
My Review: Going into this book, I knew that it has been considered a classic among fantasy enthusiasts for ages. However, I did have my reservations. I actually started it over a year ago, and after about fifty pages my interest in it grew dry. Just this summer, I revisited it, and decided to give it another try with new expectations. I have to say that I am pleased with the decision I made. I have never been into fantasy, my preferred genres being horror and mystery. Yet, I knew that I should broaden my experience, and I truly wanted to know how to enjoy what fantasy had to offer. So going into this book I decided to put aside anticipation and to just go along for the ride that Bilbo and the dwarves themselves were on. I started looking at the scenery and appreciating the present action, rather than doing what mystery has taught me and to think towards the end. Going in with this mindset, I came to fear and enjoy the same moments the characters did. I learned to appreciate the world-building that Tolkien is such a master at. I also learned to love the Hobbit-lore that Tolkien created, which is why I have started reading The Lord of the Rings as well.
Three Words That Describe This Book: Fun, Adventurous, Mythical
Give This a Try if You Like… The Lord of the Rings, The Wheel of Time series by Robert Jordan
Rating: 4/5
About FDL Reads
FDL Reads is a series of weekly book reviews from Fondulac District Library.