The Hobbit

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The Hobbit
J.R.R. Tolkien
1937

The Summary
The Hobbit tells the story of Bilbo Baggins, a half-ling living in a hole in the ground - neither a dirty, wet hole, nor a sandy, dry hole, but a comfortable hobbit hole - in the Shire, who finds himself mixed up in the unsavory business of adventuring with a hot-tempered wizard and fourteen curiously quirky dwarves.

This is where the saga begins.

The Good
J.R.R. Tolkien weaves an intricate story filled with lovable characters, fantastic creatures, and exceptional adventure. Tolkien promises an epic journey from the outset, especially since Bilbo and his traveling companions seek to reclaim treasures from the dangerous dragon, Smaug.

Adventures upon adventures will pile up before Bilbo, Gandalf, and their dwarven friends. There are incidents involving goblins, trolls, enormous spiders, elves, giant eagles, talking animals, and much more. It's fascinating that one hobbit can do so much, considering, as Tolkien once said, "They do not like noise."

Moreover, The Hobbit reminisces of a bedtime story, which makes it exceptionally fun to read aloud, especially when read aloud with funny voices. (I suggest Chapter Five, which presents a curious little incident between Bilbo and the creature named Gollum - and a certain Ring of Power.)

The Bad
Hobbits have no natural inclination to take adventures, and Bilbo is no exception.  He will often wish to return home to his nice, warm hole in the Shire and put a kettle on the fire (not for the last time, of course), which turns into a tedious reminder every few pages.

There is no lack of consistency in Bilbo's desires, at least.

Additionally, the Ring - the One Ring that serves as the most crucial driving element of The Lord of the Rings - holds very little significance in Bilbo's tale. Granted, it rescues him from danger in a pinch, but, unless you already have some experience with Tolkien's work, the importance of the Ring can fall flat.

The Ugly
Tolkien has a special skill with poetry and song unlike any other. But, if you can't hold a tune to save your life or you fall exceptionally off key, his songs can wear on your nerves and drive you absolutely bonkers.

Don't just take my word for it.  Try reading a few sections aloud.

It won't be a pleasant experience.