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)

An ever enriching classic<br />

I have read or listened to this tale multiple times since childhood. It never fails to make me laugh and sigh for sweeter times.

Classic Tale!

Yes! This is a classic book. This amazing journey follows the hobbit and the narrator brings every character to life!

the singing wasn't good

Would you recommend this audiobook to a friend? If so, why?

The Hobbit by now is such a classic that I don't think it needs to be recommended or if there are what you could call "special moments" - it is all a wonderful meandering story of friendship, adventure, travel and wisdom.

What aspect of Rob Inglis’s performance would you have changed?

I do most fervently wish he wouldn't sing. He's got a lovely voice for narration but the same could not be said about his singing skills. I ended up fast forwarding every single moment when he tried to sing those lovely poems and songs in the test. Actually, I felt embarrassed - it was so bad. Quiet narrative instead would have been lovely. That's the only reason I put 3 stars for otherwise really good narration.

If you watched the movies first and...

If you watched the movies first and have listened to Roy Dotrice narrate A Song of Ice and Fire then your expectations are too high. The movies add so much more detail. 3, 3-hour long movies.. that's the same as Lord of the Rings. And those were 3 books all thicker than The Hobbit.
And few can live up to Roy Dotrice's performances. He's set the world record for most characters in a book by a single voice actor. Not to say this story and performance aren't bad. They're just underwhelming in comparison.

Lord of the Rings Follower

What made the experience of listening to The Hobbit the most enjoyable?

The personalities were great. It had the same enjoyable feeling as the lord of the rings. It really worked my imagination.

Who was your favorite character and why?

Gandoff is my favorite character. I have always liked magic.

What do you think the narrator could have done better?

I think the narrator did fine.

If you were to make a film of this book, what would be the tag line be?

I am not sure

Any additional comments?

I loved this book. I wish the dragon had a bigger role.

Devon

Excellent narrator. the different voices between characters were phonominal. A good book for long drives.

My Favorite Story. Perfect Delivery.

I will never ever stop loving this book. Fortunately, the reader makes every listen a new one. I love that he sings the songs, and gives life to every character.

Playful children's story.

I read this because I love the lord of the rings, this has a different feel, but still nice to see some old friends and exploring Tolkien's world.

Classic

Here and Back Again: always enjoyed, always a classic, despite Hollywood (may your beard whither and grow thin) .

Fantastic

Would you listen to The Hobbit again? Why?

The narrator is awesome! I have purchased the Fellowship of The Ring because it is the same narrator.