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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: When Does The Rings of Power Take Place? Tolkien's Second Age, Explained


The Prime Video streaming series The Rings of Power is set thousands of years before the events of The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings trilogy. Rooted in J.R.R. Tolkien's history of Middle-earth, the series is expected to cover all of the major events of the fictional world's Second Age. But what is the Second Age, and how does this period of time factor into the rest of Tolkien's world? Read on to find out.

Continue Your Journey Through Middle earth

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What listeners say about The Hobbit

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  • Overall
    5 out of 5 stars

Outstanding

I first read the Hobbit in 1972 in high school. A friend of mine turned me on while sharing a bowl of hashish. Needless to say I finished the book that night. Soon the Trilogy The Lord of the Ring was enjoyed as well. Since few years have gone by without my reading the books. Like fine music, this writing is worth reading again and again.

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unexpected and simple

its a good story to be sure. wish there was more to it and at the same time would change nothing

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fantastic story, well read; thoroughly enjoyed

I thoroughly enjoyed this book, the voices were lovely for each character. Enjoyed much more than the movies #classic

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phenomenal

As monumenal as the book itself is, the narration was equally excellent. The teller of the story made it very much come alive.

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loved.. most of it!

I loved most of the book and reading. However, I found the singing to hard to listen to, I wasn't a fan.

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This is a terrific book, well read and sung!

The only thing I can say is that The Silmarillion was the perfect appetizer, even though I struggled mightily to finish listening to it. By the time I got to The Hobbit, it seemed warmly written and inviting. It was an interesting and satisfying adventure indeed!

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My all-time favorite book

My all-time favorite book. A beautiful story of adventure and friendship filled with deeper meanings, simple lessons, sad sorrows and happy endings. a book to judge all other fantasy books by.

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Classic

Very different from the movies. more about the journey and less about the Hollywood explosions. The 30 months that pass in the movies seems only a few weeks. Where the book feels like forever and you understand all the down time from the goblin caves and gollum to the murkwood Forest with the spiders and wood elves. You get a feel for how long they really spend on the journey.
the narrator had a voice for every character and is very enthusiastic. Even sings the songs. 10/10 would recommend.

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Loved it!

Rob Inglis did a fantastic job narrating this wonderous classic! I'm so happy I downloaded it!

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Inglis's work is wonderful

One of my favorite stories since I was very young, brought to life beautifully by Rob Inglis. I look forward to his renditions of The Lord of The Rings.

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