(4 / 5) – Worth It
I grew up with the old 1990’s cartoon version of “The Hobbit.” My dad was and is a great lover of J.R.R Tolkien and Middle Earth and so this story, these characters and commentary on industrialization have never been far from my consciousness. With that said it wasn’t until I was in college in the early 2000’s that I found my way to these books as a result of Peter Jackson’s theatrical interpretation of “The Lord of the Rings” epic.
Fast forward to 2022 and I have now read “The Hobbit” for only the second or third time in my life alongside my sister who has read it more times than she can count. I find it difficult to rate and review a book so deeply entrenched in my childhood and consciousness and I am not sure where to start, but I will give it a go.
This book is a classic for a reason and it is a charming tale of Middle Earth that allows the reader time within that world with minimal investment. The characters are rich and complex, though they are all men, yet Tolkien doesn’t pull his punches when it comes to greed, toxic male culture and the value of a well lived life. There is so much to be recommended here and it’s a quick and easy sojourn into the fantasy realm.
It is a book beloved by many and I enjoyed rereading it and following that up with a Peter Jackson Tolkien movie marathon. It will never be as beloved for me as it is for many, but it is an enduring tale that leaves you enchanted. Definitely worth the read.
Happy Reading!
Hannah
