The Hobbit Turns 87! Celebrating Tolkiens Masterpiece

On September 21, 1937, J.R.R. Tolkien's "The Hobbit" was published, marking a monumental moment in the world of fantasy literature. The book introduces readers to a richly imagined world inhabited by hobbits, dwarves, elves, goblins, and dragons, centered around the journey of Bilbo Baggins, a hobbit who is reluctantly drawn into an adventure to recover treasure guarded by the dragon Smaug.

"The Hobbit" is often considered the precursor to Tolkien's epic trilogy, "The Lord of the Rings," and it establishes much of the mythology and history that he would further explore in those later works. The novel's engaging narrative, depth of world-building, and the blend of humor, suspense, and darkness have made it a beloved classic for readers of all ages.

Tolkien's creation of Middle-earth and its detailed history, languages, and cultures has had a profound impact on the genre, inspiring countless other works of fantasy and establishing a framework for what modern epic fantasy could be. "The Hobbit" has not only enjoyed immense popularity but has also been influential in academic circles and has been adapted into several films and animated features, further cementing its place in cultural history.