The Hobbit
Open Library readers: 4.29 / 5 from 500 ratings. Separate from ratings here.Catalogue checked 2026-10-02.
The Hobbit is a tale of high adventure, undertaken by a company of dwarves in search of dragon-guarded gold. A reluctant partner in this perilous quest is Bilbo Baggins, a comfort-loving unambitious hobbit, who surprises even himself by his resourcefulness and skill as a burglar.
Encounters with trolls, goblins, dwarves, elves, and giant spiders, conversations with the dragon, Smaug, and a rather unwilling presence at the Battle of Five Armies are just some of the adventures that befall Bilbo.
Bilbo Baggins has taken his place among the ranks of the immortals of children’s fiction. Written by Professor Tolkien for his children, The Hobbit met with instant critical acclaim when published.
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- Who wrote The Hobbit?
The Hobbit is by J. R. R. Tolkien. The catalogue records its first publication in 1937. A later edition may have a different publication date on its copyright page.
- How long is The Hobbit?
The catalogue records 310 pages for a representative edition. Pagination varies with the publisher, format, type size and translation, so check the edition you intend to read.
