Review: The Hobbit by J. R. R. Tolkien (Re-read)

Synopsis: "If you care for journeys there and back, out of the comfortable Western world, over the edge of the Wild, and home again, and can take an interest in a humble hero (blessed with a little wisdom and a little courage and considerable good luck), here is a record of such a journey and such a traveler. The period is the ancient time between the age of Faerie and the dominion of men, when the famous forest of Mirkwood was still standing, and the mountains were full of danger. In following the path of this humble adventurer, you will learn by the way (as he did) -- if you do not already know all about these things -- much about trolls, goblins, dwarves, and elves, and get some glimpses into the history and politics of a neglected but important period. For Mr. Bilbo Baggins visited various notable persons; conversed with the dragon, Smaug the Magnificent; and was present, rather unwillingly, at the Battle of the Five Armies. This is all the more remarkable, since he was a hobbit. Hobbits have hitherto been passed over in history and legend, perhaps because they as a rule preferred comfort to excitement. But this account, based on his personal memoirs, of the one exciting year in the otherwise quiet life of Mr. Baggins will give you a fair idea of the estimable people now (it is said) becoming rather rare. They do not like noise." (from J.R.R. Tolkien's own description for the original edition, quoted by the online description)

Review: I read this book nearly 20 years ago. Recently, a friend sent me loads of audio book files, including The Hobbit. Desperate for something engaging to listen to at work, I turned this on. It was even more delightful that I remember. Hearing it helped me delve into the world - I could almost see the beauty of Rivendell, the darkness of Mirkwood, the heat of Smaug. I was pleasantly surprised to see that the movies followed the book more or less faithfully, aside from adding a love story and expanding events only mentioned in the book (such as the Battle of Dol Guldur). I won't extol the merits of this book any longer, as it's virtues are well known and generally agreed upon, but its worth reading and worth hearing if you happen to find an audio copy.

Bookmarks: 8 of 10

Awards: None

ISBN: 345-23512-6-125
Date Finished: 12-11-2015
Pages: 287