The Hobbit

Author:  J.R.R. Tolkien

One-sentence summary: An ordinary hobbit who has never left home, embarks on a life-changing journey with 13 dwarves to reclaim their treasure from a terrifying dragon who lives in their previous mountain home.

B.A.D. Girls Book Rating: 8

Our favorite thing about it:  The amazing story and writing.

Our least favorite thing about it: For some, it was too long and detailed.

Main Topics of Discussion: Fantasy, Characters, Created Worlds, Greed, Power, Traveling

Our favorite quote: “There is nothing like looking, if you want to find something. You certainly usually find something, if you look, but it is not always quite the something you were after.”

Notes: This book was a re-read for all but one of us…the first time we’ve allowed that! But, for most of us it had been a while since we’d read it. The overall consensus was that The Hobbit is a wonderful, engaging story. What was interesting was that some of us loved the rich (but not wordy) details that Tolkien weaves to create the depth to his story, and some of us felt bogged down by those same details. And similarly, some of us loved the world that he created with the landscape of Middle Earth and its different parts as well as the different species of characters and their unique characteristics, and some of us do not care for fantasy worlds.

We all agreed that leaving out the details for the major battle at the end of the book was a good choice by Tolkien. And also the journey back home for Bilbo. Knowing how this story starts and ties into the Lord of the Rings trilogy makes the story all that more interesting. The Hobbit gives you a deeper glimpse into the dwarf species, which features in the trilogy as well. And it also provides insight into Gollom and the ring.

Memorable Meeting Moments: Emma, who read the book with her mom (Dara), attended the discussion portion of our meeting to tell us what she thought.

What We Ate: Butternut Squash Soup with Pumpkin Butter, Braised Lamb with English Peas, Yukon Potato Puree, and Almonds. Ginger snap whoopee pies for dessert!