The Hobbit

The Hobbit

Book • 2012

by J.R.R. Tolkien

This beautiful gift edition of The Hobbit, J.R.R. Tolkien's classic prelude to his Lord of the Rings trilogy, features cover art, illustrations, and watercolor paintings by the artist Alan Lee.

Bilbo Baggins is a hobbit who enjoys a comfortable, unambitious life, rarely traveling any farther than his pantry or cellar. But his contentment is disturbed when the wizard Gandalf and a company of dwarves arrive on his doorstep one day to whisk him away on an adventure. They have launched a plot to raid the treasure hoard guarded by Smaug the Magnificent, a large and very dangerous dragon. Bilbo reluctantly joins their quest, unaware that on his journey to the Lonely Mountain he will encounter both a magic ring and a frightening creature known as Gollum.

Written for J.R.R. Tolkien's own children, The Hobbit has sold many millions of copies worldwide and established itself as a modern classic.

Young Adult Fiction / Performing Arts / Film
Young Adult Fiction / Classics
Young Adult Fiction / Fantasy / Epic
Young Adult Fiction / Fantasy / General
Young Adult Fiction / Fantasy / Wizards & Witches
Young Adult Fiction / Fairy Tales & Folklore / General
Young Adult Fiction / Literary
Young Adult Fiction / Science Fiction / General
Young Adult Fiction / Boys & Men
Young Adult Fiction / Girls & Women
320 pages
8+

Suggested Age

Every child is different — this is guidance, not a rule.

This story involves a perilous quest with a dangerous dragon and encounters with frightening creatures. Its complex narrative and thematic elements are best suited for children who can grasp nuanced situations and maturely process fantasy violence.

Content Safety Breakdown

Detailed breakdown of potentially concerning content

Sex & Nudity

0/5

There is no sexual content or nudity depicted in this story.

Violence & Gore

3/5

The story involves fantasy violence as the characters battle creatures and a dragon. While there are fights and some danger, it is not overly graphic or gory, and focuses more on adventure and peril.

Profanity

1/5

Mild language like 'd*mn' may be present, but it is infrequent and used in context of frustration or surprise rather than strong expletives.

Alcohol, Drugs & Smoking

2/5

Alcohol consumption, particularly by dwarves, is shown in social settings. Smoking pipes is also depicted as a common activity for hobbits and dwarves.

Frightening Scenes

3/5

Some scenes can be suspenseful and a bit scary, especially the encounters with the dragon Smaug and the creature Gollum. There are moments of danger and tension throughout the adventure.

Key Insights

Quick summary and important considerations

A home-loving hobbit named Bilbo is whisked away on a grand adventure with a group of dwarves to reclaim their treasure from a fierce dragon. Along the way, Bilbo discovers his own bravery and finds a magical ring.

Content Warnings

Fantasy Violence
Scary Creatures
Perilous Situations

Detailed Analysis

In-depth insights for parents and educators

What Parents Need to Know

Features peril from a dragon and a creature named Gollum, with fantastical violence that is not graphic. The narrative involves a heist and themes of greed and courage.

What Kids Can Learn

Children can learn about overcoming fears and the rewards of stepping into the unknown. The story promotes understanding that inner strength is often found during challenging experiences.

Key Topics Discussed

Adventure
Dragons
Magic Rings

Why Parents Might Like It

This classic literary work offers rich world-building and timeless themes that resonate with adult readers and can be enjoyed as a family read-aloud.

Positives & Learning

What makes this content valuable for children

Positive Messages

3/5

Highlights the value of courage in the face of fear and the idea that even the smallest individuals can achieve great things. It shows how stepping outside one's comfort zone leads to personal growth and self-discovery.

Positive Role Models

3/5

Bilbo Baggins demonstrates reluctant heroism and grows into a brave adventurer, proving that bravery is a choice. Gandalf offers wise guidance, and the dwarves, though sometimes gruff, exhibit loyalty to their shared goal.

Diverse Representations

1/5

No diverse representations indicated in available information.

Educational Value

2/5

Introduces themes of mythology and classic fantasy literature, sparking imagination. The journey fosters an appreciation for narrative structure and character development.

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