The Hobbit, Part Two

The Hobbit #2 of 2

by J.R.R. Tolkien, David Wyatt (Illustrator)

Bilbo Baggins, the heroic hobbit, and the band of Dwarfs are in the heart of Mirwood. They seek the Lonely Mountain, where they hope to reclaim their treasure from the great dragon Smaug!

Genres: Fantasy, Fiction, Classics, Audiobook, Adventure, Novels, High Fantasy

176 pages, Paperback

First published September 21, 1937

About the author

John Ronald Reuel Tolkien: writer, artist, scholar, linguist. Known to millions around the world as the author of The Lord of the Rings, Tolkien spent most of his life teaching at the University of Oxford where he was a distinguished academic in the fields of Old and Middle English and Old Norse. His creativity, confined to his spare time, found its outlet in fantasy works, stories for children, poetry, illustration and invented languages and alphabets.

Tolkien’s most popular works, The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings are set in Middle-earth, an imagined world with strangely familiar settings inhabited by ancient and extraordinary peoples. Through this secondary world Tolkien writes perceptively of universal human concerns – love and loss, courage and betrayal, humility and pride – giving his books a wide and enduring appeal.

Tolkien was an accomplished amateur artist who painted for pleasure and relaxation. He excelled at landscapes and often drew inspiration from his own stories. He illustrated many scenes from The Silmarillion, The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings, sometimes drawing or painting as he was writing in order to visualize the imagined scene more clearly.

Tolkien was a professor at the Universities of Leeds and Oxford for almost forty years, teaching Old and Middle English, as well as Old Norse and Gothic. His illuminating lectures on works such as the Old English epic poem, Beowulf, illustrate his deep knowledge of ancient languages and at the same time provide new insights into peoples and legends from a remote past.

Tolkien was born in Bloemfontein, South Africa, in 1892 to English parents. He came to England aged three and was brought up in and around Birmingham. He graduated from the University of Oxford in 1915 and saw active service in France during the First World War before being invalided home. After the war he pursued an academic career teaching Old and Middle English. Alongside his professional work, he invented his own languages and began to create what he called a mythology for England; it was this ‘legendarium’ that he would work on throughout his life. But his literary work did not start and end with Middle-earth, he also wrote poetry, children’s stories and fairy tales for adults. He died in 1973 and is buried in Oxford where he spent most of his adult life.

Reviews

[Aishu Rehman · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a very good book, from what I’ve noticed reading the reviews most of the people that rated it low are saying that because they had to read it at school and had to do loads of tests on it now I’m just saying but maybe if these people tried to read it again then they would enjoy it more.

[♥ Sandi ❣ · Rating 3 out of 5]

3 stars The Hobbit 2 of 2

Again I am not fan of stories where I cannot keep the characters straight, and in this case I can't keep the elves, dwarfs, orcs, wizards, etc etc etc etc etc etc etc straight! And this being a second part audio made it even harder. But a sigh of relief that it is over... big sigh!

Bilbo and his band of dwarfs slayed the Dragon and got the amulet, including the gold ring of invisibility. After a long hard fought battle both in the Lovely Mountain and in Middle Earth they are now able to rebuild Middle Earth and the Dwarfs can claim their heritage.

I doubt that I got all of it right - my mind was thoroughly confused - all the time! However I did my best and can now say I have read the classic, The Hobbit.

[Tanvi · Rating 4 out of 5]

The book begins where the first one left off.. with bilbo & the dwarves.

I did not love this as much as the first part, it was slightly slower & duller. And the whole bit with smaug is never as grand as I want it to be somehow.
I just felt everything could be more 'grand' considering how tough the whole journey was & it feels a bit anti-climactic.

However, despite the slight disappointment, I still loved it & I am really glad to have finally read it.

[ahlybunny ♡ · Rating 5 out of 5]

i'm here and back again, i have two separate ratings!
as a children's fantasy novel, i give it a five.

the songs, riddles, and some dialogues are matched in rhyme and in poetry! flow and structure were both easy to sift through, but the map and some directions/locations that were capitalized without prior background were a bit hard to follow (some locs would make sense after a few pages and some still didn't click for me; though i'm pretty sure some of these places are featured in lotr so it's forgivable). i like bombur's fatass and i didn't expect beorn's role on BOFA haha. the pov hits the fourth wall every now and then & that's cool! the novel only sheds a spotlight to half of the dwarves (thorin, balin, bombur, dwalin, fili & kili) and i think that's good because it might be strenuous for the target audience if tolkien colored more into to the remaining seven. the book's ending heavily challenges gandalf's hefty disappearance, as well as bilbo's mysterious ring that lead him to achieve extraordinary long years—oof, well well well i wonder whose ring it is and who's going to wear it next!


as someone who walked and grew up with the trilogy first, i give it a four.
page 170 says, "In the gloom the great dwarf gleamed like gold in a dying fire."

the films focused more on thorin's character imo—his rage, the arrogance, the pride from his race (which weren't much shown in the book), and bilbo's place in dissolving and mapping out their way out of his burning attitude. the whole BOFA chapter felt rushed. i personally didn't like how beorn was the who finished bolg; it would've been more appropriate if it were thorin or dain, or any of the dwarves really? there was no build-up also regarding thorin's dragon-sickness, i wish it had more subtle details along the way—it was one of my favorite moments in the movies :( plus i didn't expect bard vs. smaug was going to be that easy, the tension was BRIEF! i'm also quite shocked gandalf's literally MIA the whole time, jesus i thought there'd be more to it but his absence was just explained in what 2 sentences at the end? HAHA but alright, thorin asking for bilbo's forgiveness will always get me. and i agree, in his parting lines: if more us valued food and cheer and song above hoarded gold, it would be a merrier world.

but you also shan't forget if you ever pass through bag end, tea is at four, and DON'T BOTHER KNOCKING! ♡

p.s. oh i'll never get over fili & kili.
p.p.s.s. #thilbo #bagginshield #forever

[Pelin Gezer · Rating 4 out of 5]

Bu kalp seni unutur mu Thorin

[LambchoP · Rating 5 out of 5]

A much loved prequel story from the master of classic fantasy J.R.R Tolkien does so much more than stand the test of time.

The Hobbit has a reputation that is hard to live up to, but in my opinion it does just that and more. With a lighter feel than the following Lord of the Rings trilogy, this can be read and enjoyed by a younger audience or anybody who wants to experience middle-earth without having to jump right into the much longer trilogy. As stated above, I also think The Hobbit has aged much better than the LOTR books. Simpler writing and dialogue, less songs and a better pacing all around make this just as great of a reading experience as I'm sure it was way back when it was published.

I absolutely loved the quest in this one, the characters where all very likeable and relatable to me and the pacing was better than the trilogy. The quest based plotline was fun to follow and had plenty of action to keep readers interested and on the edge of their seats.

I also have to mention just how great the audiobook was. The narrator did an amazing job, but more than that they decided to add music and sound effects in the background which really did add to the atmosphere and really helped immerse me into the world. It also helps when they use the best music ever created for a fantasy movie:) Seriously, check out the soundtrack for LOTR, it's amazing!

I did enjoy all three of the movies, but after doing an audiobook re-read of the novel, I can safely say the original story told in the book is the best way to experience the sheer genius of Tolkien. If you have any interest in classic fantasy or quest based family friendly adventure, you'd be hard pressed to find a better book than The Hobbit. A very fun 4.5/5 stars:)

[Akari Suzuki · Rating 3 out of 5]

i would’ve loved this book if i read it in primary school

[Stephanie Martinez Lima · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was such a cute book, it was so much more light hearted than I thought it would be. It’s not something I’ll be dying to read again but I was happy to go along for the ride.

I was appalled that Bilbo came back home to people selling his stuff from his own hobbit hole. Ugh the nerve! Lol. I look forward to reading The Lord Of The Rings next and I’m hoping it leans closer to adult reading.

[Brielle "Bookend" Brooks · Rating 4 out of 5]

🗡️✨ “There’s some good in this world, and it’s worth fighting for.” ✨🌋

5 out of 5 Rings

Best For: Those who want to walk into a world with real history behind every stone, who crave magic that’s earned and not just granted, and who know the journey matters more than the destination.

Skip If: You want your fantasy quick, easy, and modern—or if old-fashioned prose, poetry, and patience are dealbreakers.

This is it—the source. The Lord of the Rings is the mountain every other fantasy climbs toward. Even if you know the movies by heart, the books are a different world: wilder, sadder, funnier, and far richer in every detail. The magic isn’t just in wizards and rings, but in the patient love for language, land, and the smallest acts of courage. Whether you’re new to Middle-earth or coming home again, the journey changes you—and it’s never quite the same twice.

Where to Begin

If you’re new, start with The Hobbit. It’s the most welcoming: lighter, full of humor and heart, with just enough shadow to hint at what’s coming. If you’re ready to dive deep, begin with The Fellowship of the Ring—it’s where Tolkien’s language, lore, and sense of wonder really come alive.

“In a hole in the ground there lived a hobbit.”

The Journey

The Lord of the Rings is more than a quest—it’s a test of friendship, hope, and the limits of courage. The pace is slow by modern standards, but it allows for real growth and heartbreak. The heroes aren’t always the ones with swords or crowns; they’re gardeners, wanderers, and the people you’d least expect.

“All we have to decide is what to do with the time that is given us.”

The first book, Fellowship, is about setting out, leaving comfort behind, and learning how big (and dangerous) the world can be. The Two Towers splits the story and deepens the darkness—battles rage, forests wake, and even the villains become more complicated. The Return of the King is about sacrifice and sorrow, and the quiet cost of heroism.

“I will not say: do not weep; for not all tears are an evil.”

Format Choices: Audio, Print, and Beyond

Audiobooks: Rob Inglis gives the classic, storybook feel—gentle, wise, with every song sung. Andy Serkis brings cinematic drama and unforgettable Gollum energy. Both are excellent; choose Inglis for tradition, Serkis for excitement.
The Silmarillion is best approached with Martin Shaw or Samuel West’s steady, clear narration.

Print: For beauty and immersion, seek out the Alan Lee illustrated hardcovers or Ted Nasmith’s edition of The Silmarillion. If you’re after portability, trade paperbacks work well, but hardcover is built to last.

For the Lore-Hungry: The Silmarillion

If you ever wondered where the elves and Sauron really come from, or why Middle-earth feels so ancient, this is the source text. It’s dense, tragic, and haunting—a collection of creation myths and doomed romances. Not for everyone, but it will deepen your love for Tolkien’s world if you let it.

“The world was fair, the mountains tall, in Elder Days before the fall…”

Representation, Critique, and Legacy

These are not perfect books: Tolkien’s world reflects the limits of his era, and many readers will notice the absence of diverse voices and perspectives. The good news is that The Lord of the Rings has been reclaimed and reimagined by generations of readers, each finding themselves in the margins, in the courage of Sam or the doubt of Frodo, in the longing for a home that never quite was.

“Even the smallest person can change the course of the future.”

Final Thoughts

There’s a reason these stories endure. They remind us that hope and kindness aren’t naïve—they’re a form of bravery. The journey isn’t easy, but every return to Middle-earth feels like coming home a slightly different person.

Middle-earth is always waiting. All you have to do is step in.

[Cecilia · Rating 5 out of 5]

The movies do not do this book justice.

I was absolutely blown away by this book and Tolkien's incredible ability to write. The ending especially was breathtaking.

I noticed Tolkien writes much like his friend C.S. Lewis, but also very different. Lewis is a more whimsical writer; I feel Tolkien more detailed in writing his books. I love both their books and the way they write.

Another thing I noticed about Tolkien's writing was that he has the capacity to write insanely detailed. It is almost impossible for an author to write so detailed so well. That said, I was not bored at all in reading this book. The book entertained me the whole way through.

The last thing- I absolutely LOVED pages 204-205. When Smaug asks Bilbo his name, Bilbo responds with titles he gained throughout his journey: "clue-finder, web-cutter, the stinging fly, ringwinner, luckwearer, and barrel-rider".

To conclude, I admired this book so much. I am extremely impressed with Tolkien's writing as well.
Thank you for reading! Have a great day! :)

[Lisette · Rating 4 out of 5]

The story is wonderful, but my husband and I were glad when it ended (we listened to the audio book together during longer car rides on the highway).
The movies give a pretty accurate vision of the story. The book gives many details and the movie gives you images that creates a world. Together feels good, but I dont feel like I missed anything if I hadnt listened to the book and had only seen the movies. Besides that, the movies make everything seem more grand. Before we realised it, Smaug was dead. No big grand heroic finale, just some small sentences. Same with the battle at the end. It was over before we really realised it had begun. While other stuff seemed to go on forever. It was good, but I will not read/listen to it again for a looooong while, maybe never. I will probably just watch the movies.

[Gracethereader · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars.
I enjoyed this book. It was my first time reading a classic and finishing it. One of the best books I ever read and I am glad I liked it.
This book is it about a hobbit called Bilbo Baggins who goes on an adventure with The Great Gandalf and a bad of thirteen dwarves to raid the treasure of Smaug, a terrible dragon who lives up in a Mountain.
Overall this book is unbelievably good and would be great for anyone but especially kids aged 9-12.
The good:
•It has great characters.
•It is set in a world of fantasy and magic.
•Bilbo Baggins is an important part to the book.
•You can never get enough of how great this book is.
The bad:
•It took me a long time to read the whole book.
•Some of my favourite characters died.
• Some parts were a bit slow.

[Zeng Hao · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved it. The story is truly a timeless masterpiece, written with such grace and elegance. I liked that it never had to create any shock value or drum up unnecessary tension to keep me reading. The plot was great in my opinion, though I may see it being considered ‘simple’ alongside today’s novels.

It really was a great read, and did not felt dull for me. I’ve known the series through the movies, but I’m so glad that I picked up the books. Tolkien’s imagination has never failed to wonder me and now I am excited to dive into The Lord of the Rings all over again.

[Bernadette Marie · Rating 3 out of 5]

It took me a while but I finally got this book finished, either because I was
getting over it or because I was just too busy.
I think after half way the story just felt sorta dragged and the middle earth
language was sort of annoying to read to be honest.
His writing style was amazing and good I loved the first book but I don't know
I think the second book just lacked something.

Overall it was an adventurous read but a dragged ending.

[Hallie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really like this book. The characters were really good just wish there was a female character in it. Also I feel like the end with the dragon wasn't very dramatic. But i did like the main story and the world where it is set in. I'm curious to what the world looks like in the movies. I was very surprised to find that The dragon talks. Anyway it was overall pretty good.

[Mateo · Rating 4 out of 5]

I read this just after I read the first part, for me it’s a conclusive book and prepares you perfectly to read “the lord of rings”, again I won’t put the 5 stars for the “song parts” I really hate them.
For me this second part was better than the first.
Both hobbit books are a must to read!

[Kate · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really liked this book- the first and second parts! I wish that there had been a but more detail in the action scenes and less in other parts but I felt it was very well written (obviously, it’s Tolkien)! I would highly recommend this book to others!

[Carys · Rating 4 out of 5]

Didn't realise the book was over 2 parts, but no that I think back, part 2 was slower than part 1. The dangers don't seem as realised, especially the dragon Smaug, and the final battle came together very quickly. Enjoyed this, but wouldn't return to it again.

[Khanyile Ngwenya · Rating 4 out of 5]

I wasn't very sure about how I felt about the big until got somewhere half way through. It's so totally attach to characteristics, I became particularly go d of Bombur Oh sweet Bombur.
It is well written, light hearted yet filled with so many gems if you listen closely.

[londra ☻ · Rating 5 out of 5]

(audiobook)
5 stars!! 🪄🧙🏽‍♀️
continuation that I loved this version with the music and ambience sounds!! "roads go ever on" read by bluefax on spotify. this is one of those you definitely come back too. It's so fun!!

[The Moon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rob Inglis is superb, songs are divine, story as story is great

[Diara J. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Blessings to Andy Serkis for live-reading through the entire book! Glad i caught Smaug and the rest ✨

[Jack N · Rating 5 out of 5]

Good Book

[J Scott · Rating 4 out of 5]

Better than the movies

[Jon · Rating 4 out of 5]

It's a good book
Four stars

[Bisesh Shrestha · Rating 4 out of 5]

2nd part of Adventure of Bilbo filled with exciting moments but unlike the movie its only from one perspective and that didn't seem fun.

[Linnéa · Rating 4 out of 5]

Audiobook

[Duha shokerat · Rating 5 out of 5]

No mater how many times I watch, listen or read this story it still brings me joy and pulls me fully into its magical world, I don't think I will ever stop loving this book.

[Giovanni Zanolio]

Stupendo, la storia di cattura subito, sceriitura semplice e facilmente compressible, chiarezza espositiva stupefacente.

[Pacarnya Asahi · Rating 2 out of 5]

ga tau anjrit aku bosan baca hobbit 😭😭