When a book is SO incredible, such as The Hobbit, it feels far beyond me to review it adequately. I don't even think I'll make an attempt, it would be horribly inept & beyond my skill set. It's another of those books (and I've said this a LOT) that I can't believe I've only just now read. I would have been completely riveted by it as a child. In fact, I want a childhood "do-over!" I want someone to dole this book out to me nightly, bit by bit, leaving me breathless wondering what happens next. The downside might be elusive sleep or at the very least, some very vivid dreams. I can't imagine peaceful slumber with a childhood imagination. As an adult, it was equally riveting. I see it as one of those books you can read on face value alone (a thrilling adventure) or absorb the deeper messages embedded within it. It's definitely genius and I see why J.R.R. Tolkien has the acclaim he deserves. I recently read a blog post by George R.R. Martin (written at the preview to the movie 'Tolkien' ~ which is on my "want to see" list) that stated what an impact Tolkien had on him as the "Father" of the Fantasy genre that's so popular today. As I was reading, I thought I could see where he got some of his inspiration for GoT's. Maybe that's reaching??? But I definitely thought I glimpsed familiar elements that he, of course, massively expanded upon.
Back to 'The Hobbit' ~ I'm a bit of a Bilbo Baggins myself, at least as an older adult. Not as much into adventure as I used to be but once I've been cajoled out of my comfort zone, I'm usually happy for the experience. I admit tho that I'm always thrilled to get back to my little hobbit hole with my tea, warm fire and a biscuit! Bilbo was an unexpected hero and a brilliant one. Absolutely everyone can relate to him in that he's not extraordinary at all. He makes you believe that in any "dicey" situation, you could draw upon the Bilbo Baggins within yourself and come out a winner. A truly wonderful story that I can't imagine anyone not loving.