The Hobbit

by JRR Tolkien, J. R. R. Tolkien, J.R.R. Tolkien, J R R Tolkien, J.R.R Tolkien
The Hobbit cover
Good Books rating 4.3
Fantasy
Buy online
Waterstones
Paperback • £8.99–£17.99 Hardback • £16.99–£125.00
Bookshop
Format • £16.14–£118.75
Amazon
Format/Price Check
Technical
  • ID: 818
  • Added: 2025-09-20
  • Updated: 2026-03-04
  • ISBN: 9780007270613
  • Publisher: HarperCollins UK
  • Published: 2008-01-01
  • Formats: 45
  • Reviews: 4

The Hobbit is a classic tale of adventure and discovery, following the unlikely hero Bilbo Baggins as he is swept up in a quest to reclaim the dwarves' stolen treasure from the fearsome dragon Smaug. Along the way, Bilbo encounters trolls, elves, and other fantastical creatures, learning about courage, friendship, and the true meaning of adventure. /n/nWritten by J.R.R. Tolkien, The Hobbit is a beloved story that has enchanted generations of readers with its richly imagined world and unforgettable characters. The book is a precursor to Tolkien's epic The Lord of the Rings trilogy and is a must-read for fans of fantasy and adventure.

Reviews
Charles City Public Library · 2025-10-22
timeless 3.50

The writing style is a bit antiquated, but the plot is easy enough for a child to appreciate. The adventure is timeless and engaging.

This review notes that the writing style is a bit antiquated, reflecting its publication in the 1930s. However, the plot is accessible and engaging for young readers. They appreciate the timeless adventure and the way it captures the imagination. The review highlights the book's ability to entertain and captivate, making it a beloved classic.

Quick quotes

    While the writing style is a bit antiquated, as it was first published in the 1930s, it's definitely easy enough for a child to appreciate.

    The plot is engaging and timeless, making it a beloved classic.

    The adventure is both thrilling and heartwarming, with a sense of wonder that keeps the reader hooked.

Compass Book Ratings · Mireille · 2023-10-16
masterpiece 5.00

The Hobbit is considered the best book the reviewer has ever read. It is praised for its adventures and suitability for both children and adults.

Mireille found The Hobbit to be arguably the best book they have ever read. They praised it for being jam-packed with adventures and noted that it serves equally well as a children's and adult book. The reviewer highlighted the book's perfect blend of excitement and storytelling, making it a timeless classic. They appreciated the book's ability to captivate readers of all ages, and they highly recommended it for its adventurous spirit and engaging narrative.

Quick quotes

    The Hobbit is arguably the best book I have ever read.

    It serves equally well as a children's and adult book.

    It is jam-packed with adventures and is the perfect blend of excitement and storytelling.

The Weekly Ringer · 2023-01-19
timeless 4.50

The book ages like fine wine, with each read being better than the last. It offers a familiar and comforting story that feels like reuniting with an old friend.

The reviewer describes The Hobbit as a timeless adventure that only gets better with each reading. They find the story familiar and comforting, comparing it to reuniting with an old friend. The book's enduring appeal is highlighted, making it a cherished read for many. The reviewer appreciates the comforting and familiar feel of the narrative, which adds to its timeless quality.

Quick quotes

    The Hobbit ages like fine wine, with every read better than the last.

    It's a story that feels familiar and comforting, as if you are reuniting with an old friend.

    The book's enduring appeal is highlighted, making it a cherished read for many.

Reddit - r/books · BookLover42 · 2023-01-01
great 4.20

The Hobbit is a classic fantasy adventure that is both charming and exciting. The journey of Bilbo Baggins is filled with memorable characters and thrilling events.

BookLover42 considers The Hobbit a classic fantasy adventure that is both charming and exciting. They enjoy the journey of Bilbo Baggins, which is filled with memorable characters and thrilling events. The book's whimsical tone and imaginative world-building make it a delightful read. However, they note that some of the plot points might feel simplistic compared to more modern fantasy novels.

Quick quotes

    A classic fantasy adventure that is both charming and exciting.

    The journey of Bilbo Baggins is filled with memorable characters and thrilling events.

    The book's whimsical tone and imaginative world-building make it a delightful read.

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