by Ruby Gill

Created on: October 06, 2008

J R R Tolkien's Middle Earth' world still remains today, one of the most fascinating and imaginative works of any author. Without a doubt, this extends to The Hobbit', a novel that provides an essential background to Tolkien's more famous Lord of the Rings' trilogy.

The enchanting story introduces us to Bilbo Baggins, living a quiet and peaceful life until the arrival of Gandalf the wizard with thirteen dwarves in tow. From here starts the adventure that Bilbo will embark upon; encountering mythical creatures, travelling lands unknown and, although it is not a prequel, it still very much sets the scene for the epic tale that awaits in Lord of the Rings'. Gandalf persuades Bilbo to join him and the others on an expedition as a master thief. The timid Bilbo is reluctant to go, but during the journey he learns much about himself and discovers he may not be the person he thought he was. And as the reader embarks on the journey with him,

This book is not only popular amongst fantasy fans, but a favourite with children too. Although more intricate and detailed than most children's books, it has proven to be a hit although maybe not so much so with the Harry Potter' generation.

Far over the misty mountains cold, to dungeons deep and caverns cold, we must away ere break of day, to seek the pale enchanted gold'. Tolkien has a true and now rarely seen gift amongst writers; he has a simple yet powerful way of gripping the reader, drawing them into an elaborate plot with sharp twists, humour and daring exploits as Bilbo and company embark upon a quest to reclaim treasure. Each character has a depth that the reader can identify with, from the bear' man to the wonderful wizard Gandalf; from militant dwarves to Smaug the dragon. And of course, that ring.

First published in 1937, Tolkien drew his own illustrations and maps of Middle Earth. He set the precedence with fantasy writing, and what is even more astonishing is that Tolkien never meant for The Hobbit' to be published. A London publishing house found it by accident and asked if he would consider submitting it as a publication. Tolkien never expected it to be so popular, and although feeling uninspired, he then went on to write his now most famous literary classics, the Lord of the Rings' trilogy. The rest, as they say, is history.

With this book, it is not hard to see why Tolkien is renowned as a master story-teller. A timeless classic that you'll want to read again and again.

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