The Hobbit

By: J. R. R. Tolkien

Narrated by: Rob Inglis

Length: 11 hrs and 5 mins

Publisher's summary

Like every other hobbit, Bilbo Baggins likes nothing better than a quiet evening in his snug hole in the ground, dining on a sumptuous dinner in front of a fire. But when a wandering wizard captivates him with tales of the unknown, Bilbo becomes restless. Soon he joins the wizard’s band of homeless dwarves in search of giant spiders, savage wolves, and other dangers. Bilbo quickly tires of the quest for adventure and longs for the security of his familiar home. But before he can return to his life of comfort, he must face the greatest threat of all - a treasure-troving dragon named Smaug.

In this fantasy classic, master storyteller J.R.R. Tolkein creates a bewitching world filled with delightful creatures and thrilling dangers. Narrator Rob Inglis will hold listeners of all ages spellbound with his skillful portrayal of hobbits, dwarves, and enchanted beasts.

©1966 J.R.R. Tolkien (P)1991 Recorded Books

Critic reviews

"Rob Inglis expertly bridges the gap between the whimsical, childlike aspects of Tolkien's fantasy classic and the hints of darker things to come later in The Lord of the Rings. Though content to enjoy his cozy life, cheerful hobbit Mr. Bilbo Baggins agrees to help his wizard friend Gandalf aid a group of dwarves seeking their lost treasure. As their various adventures ensue, Inglis treats listeners to a tour-de-force performance rich in colorful characterizations and several engaging singing performances. This story should be the unquestionable starting point for those venturing into Tolkien’s Middle-earth. Listeners experience a vocal performance that is in turn charming, gripping, a little scary, and always engaging." (AudioFile magazine)

Fabulous story and narration

I enjoyed the Hobbit even more than The Lord of the Rings trilogy. This narrator is fantastic. Great and fitting variety of voices and such a good job with all the little songs in the book. (I didn’t particularly love the songs but was very impressed by the melodies and rhythms he came up with for them.)

always a classic!

this was, in many ways, the inspiration for most 20th century fantasy. what might seem derivative was actually the original. sure, there were other fantasy sagas, but none quite like this.

an excellent read

absolutely love this title. Rob is an amazing narrator and I listen to this title over and over.

Simply Amazing

This is one if those stories everyone should read, easily! It's simple to understand, yet showcases Tolkein's mastery of the language. It's adventurous, it's fun, and it is absolutely foundational to the development of fantasy.

Wonderful reading by Rob Inglis

Such an enjoyable performance by Mr. Inglis. I loved his rendering of all of the songs in the story. This was my favorite book when I was in high school. It has been 40 years since I last enjoyed reading it. Listening to it was like renewing an old friendship. Highly recommended!!

Very fun listen.

The Book and the Movies diverge at points and you can appreciate them as separate things.

Exceptional Listening!

Watched it ! Read it!! Now heard it!!! Amazing experience! Thank you J.R.R. Tolkein for the delightful extravaganza!😊 Sabiha Baakza

It's "The Hobbit"

It's "The Hobbit" so what else should be said? The book is a delight and the narration is a jewel. Rob Inglis does an amazing job of narrator and character voices. I have read the book at least a dozen times, and I can absolutely see myself listening to this audiobook many, many times.

Narrator does well with all the characters and songs

People might disagree and I felt the Narrator did a wonderful job creating characters and sticking to them. Wonderful story.

as great as i remember from my chidhood, even bett

the book was as great as i remember from my childhood.even better at some spots becouse i had forgotten some importenr spots.