Fantasy Annotation

 Author: J.R.R. Tolkien

Title: The Hobbit

Genre: Fantasy

Publication Date: 1937

Number of Pages: 305

Geographical Setting: Middle Earth, set "north west of the old world, east of the sea". 

Time Period: 2941- 2942 of the Third Age. It is said to take place 60 years prior to the Lord of the Rings. 

Series: Although it IS a stand along book, it was written as a prequel to the Lord of the Rings. 

Plot Summary: 

    Bilbo Baggins, a well-to-do respectable Hobbit, was contentedly blowing smoke rings outside when the wizard Gandalf arrived. Upon being invited to join him on an adventure, Bilbo promptly turned him down. He enjoyed the warmth and security of his hobbit hole. As he departed, Gandalf made a mark on the door, and the very next morning, thirteen dwarves arrived at tea time. Tales were told of the terrible dragon Smaug, and how he was responsible for the destruction of the entire dwarf community and stole their valuables and kept them for himself. The dwarves were out to regain their gold, jewels, and whatever else was rightfully theirs. Now, let it be known that Bilbo's mother was a Took - a hobbit family who had a rather adventuresome reputation. These stories created excitement within Bilbo, and before he knew it, he found himself drawn into their quest. They fought Goblins, Orcs, Wolves and numerous other creatures before facing their ultimate battle. 

Subject Headings: Dragons, Wizards, Dwarves

Appeal: 

    Setting: Tolkien writes in such a vivid way that the reader feels like they are accompanying Bilbo and the dwarves through Middle Earth. There is a map in the first few pages of the book, showing the Shire (Bilbo's home), as well as the Lonely Mountain, Mirkwood Forest, and the Mines of Moria. 

    Characters: Hobbits are creatures of honorable character, and Bilbo is intent on helping his friends. The dwarves, although sometimes irritable, are determined and bold. They have a goal in mind and are bound to see it through, even at the threat to their own lives. 

    Pacing: Worldbuilding takes time, so it makes sense that the story starts out a little slow. Tolkien sets the stage of Middle Earth before our eyes, and readers appreciate it as they get a feel for the area in which their favorite characters are experiencing. The pace picks up slightly once they embark on their quest. 

Three terms to describe the book: Bravery, Unexpected Adventure, Companionship

Similar Fiction works: 

    Eragon by Christopher Paolini. Eragon finds a stone in the forest, which  turns out to be a dragons egg. The egg hatches, making him a Dragon Rider. The must train together, and confront Galbatorix and his fierce dragon Shruikan, in order to save their world. 

    Similar to Bilbo, Eragon in younger and innocent at the onset of the adventure. They both have honorable intentions that make them reader's favorites. More importantly though, through everything they endure, they remain true to themselves. 

    

    NeverEnding Story by Micheal Ende

    The setting is a fantasy world in which the main character is a young man named Bastian who must journed to the tower of "The Childlike Empress". His adventures will lead him through lands of dragons and giants. Fantasy lovers will enjoy this book immensely due to its whimsical nature.  

   

    Wizard of Earthsea by Ursula K. Leguin

    This is a great coming of age story of a young mage Ged (Sparrowhawk) who accidentally releases a shadow creature. In his quest to restore balance, he learns lessons of destiny and integrity. Like most fantasy, he encounter mythical creatures and even must tame a dragon. 

    Similar Non-fiction works

    The Letters of J.R.R. Tolkien by Christopher Tolkien and Humphrey Carpenter. He answers questions to his fans from everything from Middle Earth, things about his personal life, as well as his faith. Fascinating to learn about what his readers think to ask him, and how what is a small detail to some may be a big detail to another reader.

    The Worlds of J.R.R. Tolkien: The Places that Inspired Middle Earth by John Garth.  As the title suggests, this books discusses travel experiences and reading preferences that may have influenced his writings. 

    The Atlas of Middle Earth by Karen Wynn Fonstad. This is not recommended as a cover to cover type book, but more as one to have on hand as a reference guide. The geography covered is from the First, Second, and Third Ages and contains quite a bit of information. 

    

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