"In a hole in the ground there lived a hobbit." So begins one of the most beloved and delightful tales in the English language. Set in the imaginary world of Middle-earth, at once a classic myth and a modern fairy tale, The Hobbit is one of literature's most enduring and well-loved high fantasy novels.
"In a hole in the ground there lived a hobbit." So begins one of the most beloved and delightful tales in the English language. Set in the imaginary world of Middle-earth, at once a classic myth and a modern fairy tale, The Hobbit is one of literature's most enduring and well-loved high fantasy novels.
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 epic quest, unaware that on his journey to the Lonely Mountain he will encounter both a magic ring and a frightening creature known as Gollum.
Reading guide
Why read The Hobbit, or There and Back Again?
First published in 1937, The Hobbit, or There and Back Again has remained relevant for over 89 years — a mark of lasting literary value that few books achieve.
Blending Fantasy with Classics, this book appeals to readers who appreciate stories that mix elements from more than one tradition.
Available on Bookble for readers looking to explore J.R.R. Tolkien's work and build a focused reading list.
Recommendations
Books like The Hobbit, or There and Back Again
If you enjoy J.R.R. Tolkien's voice, explore The Fellowship of the Ring, The Two Towers, and The Lord of the Rings from the same author to continue in a familiar style.
Within Fantasy, readers who liked The Hobbit, or There and Back Again often gravitate toward 1984, Project Hail Mary, and Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone — each sharing thematic DNA while offering a different perspective.
What is The Hobbit, or There and Back Again about?
"In a hole in the ground there lived a hobbit." So begins one of the most beloved and delightful tales in the English language. Set in the imaginary world of Middle-earth, at once a classic myth and a modern fairy tale, The Hobbit is one of literature's most enduring and well-...
Who wrote The Hobbit, or There and Back Again?
The Hobbit, or There and Back Again is by J.R.R. Tolkien.
What genre is The Hobbit, or There and Back Again?
The Hobbit, or There and Back Again falls within Fantasy and Classics. Browse related categories on Bookble to find books with a similar style.
When was The Hobbit, or There and Back Again published?
The Hobbit, or There and Back Again was first published in 1937 by J.R.R. Tolkien.
Is The Hobbit, or There and Back Again available as an audiobook or ebook?
The Hobbit, or There and Back Again is listed on Bookble — check the book page for current format availability.