A great modern classic and the prelude to The Lord of the Rings. Bilbo Baggins is a hobbit who enjoys a comfortable unambitious life rarely traveling any farther than his pantry or cellar. But his contentment is disturbed when the wizard Gandalf and a company of dwarves arrive on his doorstep one day to whisk him away on an adventure. They have launched a plot to raid the treasure hoard guarded by Smaug the Magnificent a large and very dangerous dragon. Bilbo reluctantly joins their quest unaware that on his journey to the Lonely Mountain he will encounter both a magic ring and a frightening creature known as Gollum. A glorious account of a magnificent adventure filled with suspense and seasoned with a quiet humor that is irresistible . . . All those young or old who love a fine adventurous tale beautifully told will take The Hobbit to their hearts. New York Times Book Review show more