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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)

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Continue Your Journey Through Middle earth

Continue Your Journey
Through Middle-earth

What listeners say about The Hobbit

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great story, less good narration

Love the story of course, but whoever heard the voices for the goblins and trolls and thought that people would enjoy hearing those were wrong.

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A Must Listen To for Tolkien Fans

Like many people, I have read The Hobbit at least twice and have seen the movie about the same number of times. The Hobbit (book) was a glimpse into Tolkien's literary genius displayed full force in the Lord of the Rings trilogy. The Hobbit (movie) is a cinematic extravaganza similar to the Lord of the Rings movie. However, The Hobbit (audiobook) narrated by Rob Inglis brings a new perspective and dynamic to The Hobbit which should not be missed. Tolkien would be happy with Rob Inglis' performance, I think.

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Sweet book

Rob Inglis reads books like a boss. He also has an enchanting singing voice. Can't wait to listen to the next one @÷)

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A bit bored...

This is a well known novel, but it was my first introduction to the story of the hobbit. We were planning on going to the theatrical version of the story (currently in theatres) and I just wanted an idea of what the story was like before heading to the movie. That being said, I thought the story was okay, but not as fast paced as the Lord of the Rings Trilogy. I found that I was day dreaming during parts of the book and didn't really end up missing much. But the narrator, Rob Inglis, was very good. Even though this wasn't my favorite book, I'd say it's worth your credit. Interesting story & good narration... it just drags a little.

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so gooood!! loved it

loved the reader in this book. the hobbit book is amazing, doesn't compare to the movies but I liked the movies as well. great buy

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Good performance of a classic

Would you listen to The Hobbit again? Why?

Yes, I would listen to The Hobbit again. Mr. Inglis did a very good job with his performance
of a classic book. It was at a good pace and the voices kept it interesting.

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so great!!

I loved this book and narrator, highly recommended to any adventure seeking listener. muchly enjoyed

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Great book

Amazing book. Reading was great. The world is awesome. Characters were well thought out and loved.

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The best audio version of the Hobbit

I love Rob Inglis’ narration of both the Hobbit, and the Lord of the Rings! He is a true performer! He does all of the voices, sings all of the songs, and I don’t want to listen to any other audio versions of this book. I listen to his version of The Lord of the Rings every year, and now I can add his version of The Hobbit to it!

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As Wonderful Now As When Originally Published!

And as wonderful for adults as YAs.
The writing, story and pace make this timeless and Rob Inglis is a perfect narrator for this classic.
A brilliant scholar, Tolkien mines ancient European folktales and retells them in a compelling modernistic style, much like Neil Gaiman does. THE HOBBIT offers memorable characters in a world and story well worth hearing again and again.

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