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The Hobbit

By: J. R. R. Tolkien
Narrated by: Rob Inglis
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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)

Featured Article: The Best Fantasy Audiobooks to Take You Out of This World


Few audiobooks provide as much of an escape as those in the fantasy genre. Each of the best introduces us to an entirely new world (or a new version of this one), a diverse cast of complexly constructed characters, and a story so mesmerizing we’re reluctant to return to real life. But because the genre is so full of talent, it can be difficult to know what to listen to next. Look no further than this list of the best fantasy audiobooks to get you started.

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What listeners say about The Hobbit

Average customer ratings
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better than the movie

I had seen the movie, which, though good, was in need of some editing. The audiobook was riveting and engaging. highly recommended.

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Great story! good narration.

The story is fantastic but if you're interested in this title, chances are you already know that. The narrator does a good job. During the regular reading his voice is just fine and he reads at a good pace. my only negative is that he gives voices to each character, some of which can be rather grating. He will also do his best rendition of each song in the book. You will get used to the voices but I found that once a song started I would just tune out until it passed. Overall though, this is a great rendition.

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    3 out of 5 stars
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Classic story.

Loved the story again... like I did as a child. Had trouble telling the voices of the characters apart.

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The Hobbitt

I enjoyed this as a kid, a teenager, and an adult.
If you e seen the movies and not read the book then you are really cheating yourself out of a great story the movies did not do justice.
The narration was excellent, as with all books read by Rob Inglis, but if I had to make one complaint it would be I could do without the singing.
I recommend this book for all genres and all ages!!!

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Always Love to Revisit This One

This is probably my 4th or 5th time reading The Hobbit, and it's always a joy to revisit this one. This time, I listened on audiobook on a trip home from the beach, with soothed a bit of my frustration about having to leave the ocean behind.

I love the progression of Bilbo from the first page to the last. This is a fun adventure in a fantastical world.

The narration is good.

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Adventures galore!

My sons, now grown, have asked me to read The Hobbit for years! When I told them I had begun, they said, "Now you will understand us in a whole new way!" They were right. Best audible yet!!!

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Rob Inglis is incredible.

If you love the writings of Tolkien, the best way to experience his work is by listening to Rob Inglis read it. He is extremely talented.

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  • Overall
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It's alright

Good performance. I listened to the book 2 weeks before the release of the movie. This book is a lot more fun when you're in the 4th grade vs. being 42. The movie does a good job of following the book.

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an amazing book

I love ❤ this book so much. this is my fourth time reading it I can't wait to hear the Lord of the Rings series.

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Quite good

I enjoyed the story and the voices done were quite nice. I did wish there was a bit more variety to how the songs were performed but that's just me getting picky.

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