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The Hobbit

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 1937

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Book Brief

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J. R. R. Tolkien

The Hobbit

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 1937
Book Details
Pages

333

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Middle-earth • Medieval Fantasy World

Publication Year

1937

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

10+ years

Lexile Level

1000L

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Super Short Summary

The Hobbit is a fantasy adventure novel that follows the journey of Bilbo Baggins, a hobbit, who is persuaded by a wizard, Gandalf, to join 13 dwarves on a quest to reclaim their homeland from the dragon Smaug. Along the way, they face numerous challenges, such as trolls, goblins, and giant spiders, ultimately engaging in a climactic battle before Bilbo returns home, transformed by his experiences.

Adventurous

Fantastical

Humorous

Exciting

Nostalgic

Reviews & Readership

4.5

4,195,793 ratings

83%

Loved it

12%

Mixed feelings

5%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Reviews of J. R. R. Tolkien’s The Hobbit highlight its imaginative world-building and richly developed fantasy realm, captivating both young and adult readers. Critics praise its enduring charm and intricate plot. However, some find the pacing uneven and certain sections overly descriptive. Overall, it remains a beloved classic with broad appeal.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Hobbit?

A reader who enjoys The Hobbit by J. R. R. Tolkien likely appreciates epic fantasy, rich world-building, and adventurous quests. Fans of J.K. Rowling's Harry Potter series and C.S. Lewis's The Chronicles of Narnia will find similar enchantment and timeless storytelling in this classic tale.

4.5

4,195,793 ratings

83%

Loved it

12%

Mixed feelings

5%

Not a fan

Character List

Bilbo Baggins

Bilbo Baggins is a hobbit, 50 years old, and quite content to remain at home in the Shire. He is the principal protagonist of the novel, and the story is largely seen through his perspective. Bilbo is initially hesitant but intrigued by the idea of adventure when approached by Gandalf and a group of dwarves.

Gandalf is a well-known wizard to the shire folk, who appears unexpectedly at Bilbo's doorstep, seeking someone to join an adventure. He is mysterious, independent, and plays a key role in orchestrating the quest that Bilbo embarks on with the dwarves, while also attending to other tasks during the story.

Thorin Oakenshield is the leader of the company of dwarves and heir to the kingdom at the heart of the Lonely Mountain. He seeks to reclaim his ancestors' kingdom and treasure from the dragon Smaug. Initially doubtful of Bilbo’s usefulness, Thorin grows to value his presence as the journey progresses.

Book Details
Pages

333

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Middle-earth • Medieval Fantasy World

Publication Year

1937

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

10+ years

Lexile Level

1000L

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