My Review of The Hobbit by J.R.R Tolkien

First the book description:

When Thorin Oakenshield and his band of dwarves embark upon a dangerous quest to reclaim the hoard of gold stolen from them by the evil dragon Smaug, Gandalf the wizard suggests an unlikely accomplice: Bilbo Baggins, an unassuming Hobbit dwelling in peaceful Hobbiton. 

Along the way, the company faces trolls, goblins, giant spiders, and worse. But as they journey from the wonders of Rivendell to the terrors of Mirkwood and beyond, Bilbo will find that there is more to him than anyone--himself included--ever dreamed. Unexpected qualities of courage and cunning, and a love of adventure, propel Bilbo toward his great destiny...a destiny that waits in the dark caverns beneath the Misty Mountains, where a twisted creature known as Gollum jealously guards a precious magic ring.

My review:

I’m trying to work my way through the classics of the fantasy genre so of course The Hobbit was a must read. I'm so sorry this review is so brief but this is one of those books that are nearly impossible to review without giving away spoilers.

What I love most is that the story of Bilbo Baggins is both character driven and plot driven. Yes it’s a great adventure story with a wizard, dwarves, elves, goblins, monsters, a dragon, and a great battle at the end. But seeing Bilbo grow from a scared, weak hobbit to a respected friend, warrior, diplomat, and all around strong physically and morally character is a delight.

This classic adventure fantasy has heart. I didn’t give it a full five stars though because I never understood one vital thing, why did Gandalf choose Bilbo? At the end Gandalf hints at him fulfilling some prophecy but it’s never clear how Gandalf knew to choose Bilbo for this adventure.

My rating is  

 Turns out it is addressed in Unfinished Tales. See here.