i think this is the type of book i would’ve enjoyed when i was younger. i tried to love this book, and eventually failed. i neither loved it or hated it; it was just ok.

i have wanted to read this series since i was 8, and just picked it up now. the plot was amazing. there were few plot holes, but plot holes are pretty visible in any book. the characters, on the other hand, weren’t as lovable. if it wasn’t for bilbo, i would’ve rated this book a star. he carried the book. the slow pace was also unnecessary. i found the overly descriptive sentences unnecessary. taking almost the whole page describing an apple was not it for me.

i don’t know why there are several dwarfs— i don’t think eleven dwarves were necessary. up until now, i still don’t know their names one by one without checking them again. in addition, there were zero females in this book. i was expecting at least one, and i didn’t get any. that part really bugged me.

however, i’ll still read the next book because i’ve heard better things about it.

The quintessential adventure novel. Shows that with a bit of courage, some luck, and a willingness and curiosity to explore, then even dragons can be beaten.

This was my first time reading any Tolkien, so without any reliance on nostalgia I can confidently tell that I enjoyed every page. 

From what I've heard of the Lord of the Rings books, the hobbit definitely seem like the lighter option. I had been warned that Tolkien has a habit of getting to into the details, no matter how insignificant. However, I did not find that to be an issue at all. Any insignificant detail was only briefly mentioned and helps make the world feel more well-rounded and interesting. I got incredibly invested in the characters and their motivations for this journey. 

It has most likely been said many times, but the one wish I have for this book is for just a few female characters in the mix. 

Feb 2021: I enjoyed this more this reread than my previous two rereads, so that's nice. I was worried I was getting sick of the book, which was disappointing to think, since I really enjoyed it the first time I read it in eighth grade.