The Hobbit
In the land of Middle-earth lives Bilbo Baggins, a respectable member of a race of little people called hobbits. Now, like many of his kind, Bilbo cherishes comfort and spurns adventure of any sort. But that will all change when Gandalf the wizard scratches a sign in his door, and the hobbit is besieged by thirteen ravenous dwarves. The next thing he knows, Bilbo is off on a perilous quest to reclaim a stolen treasure from the dragon Smaug, a quest that will lead him to trolls, elves, goblins, shapeshifters, spiders, a creature named Gollum and a very magical ring....
Seventy-five years after its original publication, The Hobbit remains as fresh and evocative as the day it was published. Originally intended to entertain Tolkien’s own children, it has been beloved through the decades by young and old alike, and is today considered one of the most important books in the fantasy genre.
Why? Perhaps because the world of The Hobbit was built on a plausible foundation and operated by rules readers could believe in. Tolkien drew on his knowledge of early English languages, mythology and runic magic to give his land of Middle-earth a history and logic that not only sustains readers’ beliefs, but which has influenced countless imitators. And he did it all with peerless wit and style.
The prelude to The Lord of the Rings and a classic fantasy in its own right, The Hobbit is J.R.R. Tolkien’s first masterpiece. Join Bilbo on his enchanting adventure!
This edition contains all revisions and corrections that have been made since the original publication and includes endpaper maps and b&w illustrations by Tolkien himself. Jacket art by Donato.
Hardcover Book : 256 pages
Publisher: Houghton Mifflin Co. ( January 01, 1956 )
Item #: 11-169275
ISBN: 9780739410745
Product Dimensions: 5.5 x 8.25 x 0.576inches
Product Weight: 11.0 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
A classic for both kids and not-so-kids 
November 13, 2002
I loved this book, as I posted on my review of The Lord of the Rings, that "other" Tolkien book is the greatest epic adventure ever written, but this book, even though not so epic, is much more fun to read. As far as I know, Tolkien wrote this story for his children, and it was thanks to their encouragement that he sumbitted it to publication. What he achieved was a book that will delight both kids and adults with its fun narrative and characters, and, contrary to its follow-up LOTR, you aren't so overwhelmed by details.
Finally, it is highly recommendable that you read this book (and The Silmarillion) before LOTR, as it gives the accounts of the finding of the One Ring by Bilbo Baggins, one of the best and most fun characters ever created.
Reviewer: Samuel P
IMPORTANT - Read this introduction to the trilogy FIRST!
November 07, 2002
I cannot say enough about the significance of this volume in setting the stage for the more popular books in this series! Tolkein created lands, peoples, and languages that will never be fully understood, but this novel helps a great deal. DON'T be taken in by the movies! Read the books - and read this one FIRST!
Reviewer: Anonymous
It will never die
October 03, 2002
I have read all the tolkien works since I was a very young child. They are some of the greatest books ever written. It is a pity he didnt spend a litte more time on the return of the king as it seems rushed to completion.
As to the reader that thinks this is witchcraft... You have no idea what witchcraft is or about so dont judge these works since you dont have an open mind.
I recommend these books to anyone, any age. They are pure enjoyment.
read what you enjoy, not what someone else judges to be bad. They are a lesser person due to their hypocrisy. They even keep themselves anon because they cant defend their own views.
Reviewer: Lugene B
A Classic!
September 30, 2002
I'm so happy that I finally took the time to read this book! It should be considered a classic!
Reviewer: Anonymous
Wonderful light fantasy
September 27, 2002
I loved this book and I can't wait to begin reading Lord of the Rings. The Hobbit is a light fantasy that was easy to read and follow and enjoyable all the way through!
Reviewer: Marie K
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