J.R.R. Tolkien’s children’s fantasy novel, which would pave the way for The Lord of the Rings trilogy, focuses on the story of Bilbo Baggins, a homebody hobbit who lives comfortably in the Shire. When the wizard Gandalf tricks him into hosting and then joining a journeying group of dwarves on their way to reclaim a former dwarf stronghold, he begins a journey of his own. Each step of the way, Bilbo encounters new, fantastic creatures and learns to embrace his adventurous side. Finally, after the dragon Smaug has been destroyed, the dwarves have re-taken the Lonely Mountain, the goblins and Wargs have been defeated, and the treasure has been distributed, Bilbo returns to the shire as a wealthy and wise hobbit with a secret- he is in possession of a rather important ring…

Simultaneously light-hearted and hard-hitting, The Hobbit is a must-have for parents and teachers of children of all ages. For younger children, it is a great story to listen and imagine along with, as this book is perfect for reading in daily or weekly chapter installations. For older children, it is a great introduction to the fantasy genre and the perfect way to get them interested in Tolkien’s more mature and thought-provoking works.