jesswilkins 's review for:

The Hobbit: or There and Back Again by J.R.R. Tolkien

4.5

adventurous funny lighthearted mysterious medium-paced

Plot or Character Driven: A mix

Strong character development: Yes

Loveable characters: Yes

Diverse cast of characters: Yes

Flaws of characters a main focus: No

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Before I get into the review, I should first mention that I consumed this book through audiobook on spotify whilst at work which I always find enhances the experience greatly. Nonetheless, I undoubtedly would have enjoyed it just as much. 

This was my first introduction to Tolkien’s writing and the Lord of the Rings series as I am a staunch believer in reading before watching, and have never gotten around to reading it until now. 

As far as my understanding goes, this book is aimed at children and the plot and writing certainly reflects that, especially since I immediately started listening to the audiobook of The Fellowship of the Ring after finishing the prequel and definitely noticed a difference. The plot and characters are whimsical and endearing, and whilst the topics are light and skim the surface of what I expect, or expected, the series to get into, it was an entertaining read. so don’t expect to see any violence, complicated themes or topics (which, from the clips i’ve seen of the LoTR, was sort of what I expected when starting this lol). 

Tolkien’s writing is charming and playful, and very easy to read (or listen to). 

There’s depth to the characters and they each have their own unique personalities, but, perhaps just because it is most fresh in my mind at the moment, the Fellowship of the Ring, with a more in depth overview of Hobbits in general, does provide a deeper understanding of Bilbo’s character. Still, having a lighter introduction to this world has made it easier to understand what’s happening in the main series.

I haven’t given it the full 5 stars (yet) as I’m curious to see how it fits into the main trilogy. There is also a distinct lack of female characters (I can’t even recall a single one by name, if there are any) which I find very odd.

I think it would make a good autumn/ winter read too but I’m trying to get on with it so I can watch the films :)