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The Spiritual World of The Hobbit
Popular Author Helps Readers Discover the Christian Dimension in Tolkien's The Hobbit Tolkien fans have long awaited the release of The Hobbit movies. With the first film due in theaters before Christmas, these fans will be primed to find out all they can about the spiritual themes in the story's mythological world. This book explores good versus evil in Tolkien's writings, the spiritual quest of Bilbo Baggins, the guiding hand of God's providence, and much more. The author specializes in taking complex topics in religion and literature and making them accessible to every reader. A great gift for Tolkien book and movie fans.
240 pages, Paperback
First published October 1, 2012
18 people are currently reading
494 people want to read
About the author
James Stuart Bell
127 books22 followersJames Stuart Bell is the owner of Whitestone Communications, a literary development agency. He consults with numerous publishers, represents various authors, and provides writing and editing services. He has previously served as executive editor at Moody Press, director of religious publishing at Doubleday, and publisher at Bridge Publishing. He also has more than one hundred books with cover credit. He coauthored the best-selling Complete Idiot's Guide to the Bible (more than 300,000 sold) and numerous other Christian guides in that series for the Penguin Group. He has also contributed numerous Christian volumes to the best-selling Cup of Comfort series by Adams Media.
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Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews
March 4, 2016
This was an awesome, deeper look at the world of Middle Earth! It was both intriguing and eye-opening, and made a lot of connections I wouldn't have even guessed at without reading The Silmarillion or Tolkien's other history-type books (which I hope to read, but still...). It was almost like rereading The Hobbit, since it goes in chronological order of what happens through the story, but it helped me see the story in a whole new way. Definitely one of my favorite nonfiction books!
July 27, 2019
Really a fascinating and helpful read - especially when it came to summarizing extra-Hobbit material, like The Silmarillion! I've tried to read that multiple times, and just couldn't get through it, so appreciate knowing the gist of it - maybe I can give it a go now.
Bell has obviously done his homework (aside from one reference to Eowyn as Theoden's daughter; she is his niece and goddaughter, actually - not daughter). I certainly will not read The Hobbit the same way now that I've read this! There's way more to The Hobbit than I had any concept of previously, and Bell admirably captures so very much here.
Definitely recommended.
Bell has obviously done his homework (aside from one reference to Eowyn as Theoden's daughter; she is his niece and goddaughter, actually - not daughter). I certainly will not read The Hobbit the same way now that I've read this! There's way more to The Hobbit than I had any concept of previously, and Bell admirably captures so very much here.
Definitely recommended.
July 5, 2020
Very interesting overall. At points he assumes too much on Tolkien's intended purposes, but definitely brings out some interesting connections within Tolkien's legendarium I hadn't considered, and compelling biblical applications/parallels. Thoroughly enjoyed it :)
August 29, 2020
The world of Middle-Earth has captivated me and drawn me since I was a child. This author’s clear prose and wise insights in his book have been a delight to me. It was truly a beautifully-written book!
April 24, 2018
I found this delightful. A bit of a stretch in areas, but well worth the small effort to read.
February 1, 2020
A very good read, I’m glad it acknowledged that Tolkien was NOT trying to write allegory.
November 15, 2013
Why read this book? Why the author wrote the book is a good starting answer to this question, that is, “…several misconceptions remain concerning the adventures of Bilbo Baggins…[and] these misconceptions prevent readers from fully appreciating and benefitting from Tolkien’s genius”. (from page 13)
I would also say that by reading this book you won’t need to purchase and read through Christopher Tolkien’s (J. R. R.’s son) , 12 volume history of Middle Earth, in order to get the background information necessary to understand The Hobbit story line. This book’s author pulls information from those volumes and J. R. R.’s, Silmarillion, as well.
Some of the scriptural parallels seem exaggerated at first, until I reminded myself of what this author said, that, “In the Hobbit, Tolkien’s theological underpinning is subtler and frequently beneath the surface.” (from page 14)
Mr. Bell advises the reader to read this book along with reading The Hobbit. I would second that recommendation. Read a chapter in The Hobbit, then read the explanation in this book.
One of the main scriptural parallels that keeps coming up and seems to run through the entire book is that Bilbo Baggins doesn’t start out being very hero-like and instead he is a work in progress, much like we are a work in progress in our spiritual lives. Another similar spiritual theme is that Bilbo (the Hobbit character) is on a journey becoming who he is created to be. He is changed. Again this is very much like us becoming more Christlike as we go through our journey here on earth.
By the very nature of the book, The Hobbit, that is, it being a fantasy novel means that not everything has to mean something. It is make-believe after all and is meant for entertainment. God alone only knows how much spiritual stuff J. R. R. Tolkien actually meant on purpose to put into his book as opposed to it simply slipping in from just him being a spiritual Christian person. Either way it was interesting and entertaining to see some of the spiritual themes and parallels.
If you are a J. R. R. Tolkien fan this is a must-read (unless perhaps you already own that 12 volume set that I mentioned earlier). If you are a fan of C. S. Lewis’ Chronicle of Narnia series you will most likely enjoy this book also. If you like Christian fantasy books in general you will like this book, too.
Interestingly, another Hobbit movie is set to come to the theaters in early December of this year. I recommend reading the book (and this one as well) before seeing the movie.
To get you own copy of this book go here:Spiritual World of the Hobbit, The
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Bethany House as part of their Blogging For Books program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16CFR, Part 225:”Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
(c)2013 Cheryl Cope
I would also say that by reading this book you won’t need to purchase and read through Christopher Tolkien’s (J. R. R.’s son) , 12 volume history of Middle Earth, in order to get the background information necessary to understand The Hobbit story line. This book’s author pulls information from those volumes and J. R. R.’s, Silmarillion, as well.
Some of the scriptural parallels seem exaggerated at first, until I reminded myself of what this author said, that, “In the Hobbit, Tolkien’s theological underpinning is subtler and frequently beneath the surface.” (from page 14)
Mr. Bell advises the reader to read this book along with reading The Hobbit. I would second that recommendation. Read a chapter in The Hobbit, then read the explanation in this book.
One of the main scriptural parallels that keeps coming up and seems to run through the entire book is that Bilbo Baggins doesn’t start out being very hero-like and instead he is a work in progress, much like we are a work in progress in our spiritual lives. Another similar spiritual theme is that Bilbo (the Hobbit character) is on a journey becoming who he is created to be. He is changed. Again this is very much like us becoming more Christlike as we go through our journey here on earth.
By the very nature of the book, The Hobbit, that is, it being a fantasy novel means that not everything has to mean something. It is make-believe after all and is meant for entertainment. God alone only knows how much spiritual stuff J. R. R. Tolkien actually meant on purpose to put into his book as opposed to it simply slipping in from just him being a spiritual Christian person. Either way it was interesting and entertaining to see some of the spiritual themes and parallels.
If you are a J. R. R. Tolkien fan this is a must-read (unless perhaps you already own that 12 volume set that I mentioned earlier). If you are a fan of C. S. Lewis’ Chronicle of Narnia series you will most likely enjoy this book also. If you like Christian fantasy books in general you will like this book, too.
Interestingly, another Hobbit movie is set to come to the theaters in early December of this year. I recommend reading the book (and this one as well) before seeing the movie.
To get you own copy of this book go here:Spiritual World of the Hobbit, The
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Bethany House as part of their Blogging For Books program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16CFR, Part 225:”Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
(c)2013 Cheryl Cope
January 21, 2014
Have you ever walked past a window of a store and looked in, walked by then stopped, turned around and walked back to get a better look? That's THIS book.
It's a book that will make you say hmmmmm. Why?
It's colorful yet complex.
It's whimsical yet spiritual.
It's masterfully crafted.
Page after page you realize that this author has done his homework. The reflection of his thoughts, ideas and proposals on The Hobitt from a spiritual perspective is unique, witty and thought provoking. I know you might be thinking elves, goblins, dragons - that's mythology, not spirituality! However, a closer look under the pages of the artfully crafted cover gives you so much more to read. While it helps to have a basic familiarity with the original Hobbit by Tolkien and /or it's characters, Bell gives a new perspective by introducing a spiritual twist. He reminds us that at times, key things to consider are like Bilbao - have a strong moral compass and a strong character. He reminds us that they remain constant - it's who they are and how they think, much like many passages in the New Testament have shown us. One key point that stood out for me - Leadership = Courage. Well, AMEN I say! Being a leader is perfecting an existing craft, one we can learn from. Bilbao is no Abraham - or Noah, or Joseph per se - but the premise that we can all take that journey towards betterment, seeking, finding .... to seek for a truth or justice for the greater of all is certainly a message worth journeying towards.
Truly a different yet refreshing read, one that has been a long time in coming. This book is not a light book. It will make you think. You may have to back up and re-read passages again. Grab your favorite pen. Or highlighter. Take notes. You'll be glad you did.
4/5 stars!
*Disclaimer: I received this book for an honest review from Bethany House, a division of the Baker Publishing Group and was not required to write a positive review. Any reflection of such is my own.
It's a book that will make you say hmmmmm. Why?
It's colorful yet complex.
It's whimsical yet spiritual.
It's masterfully crafted.
Page after page you realize that this author has done his homework. The reflection of his thoughts, ideas and proposals on The Hobitt from a spiritual perspective is unique, witty and thought provoking. I know you might be thinking elves, goblins, dragons - that's mythology, not spirituality! However, a closer look under the pages of the artfully crafted cover gives you so much more to read. While it helps to have a basic familiarity with the original Hobbit by Tolkien and /or it's characters, Bell gives a new perspective by introducing a spiritual twist. He reminds us that at times, key things to consider are like Bilbao - have a strong moral compass and a strong character. He reminds us that they remain constant - it's who they are and how they think, much like many passages in the New Testament have shown us. One key point that stood out for me - Leadership = Courage. Well, AMEN I say! Being a leader is perfecting an existing craft, one we can learn from. Bilbao is no Abraham - or Noah, or Joseph per se - but the premise that we can all take that journey towards betterment, seeking, finding .... to seek for a truth or justice for the greater of all is certainly a message worth journeying towards.
Truly a different yet refreshing read, one that has been a long time in coming. This book is not a light book. It will make you think. You may have to back up and re-read passages again. Grab your favorite pen. Or highlighter. Take notes. You'll be glad you did.
4/5 stars!
*Disclaimer: I received this book for an honest review from Bethany House, a division of the Baker Publishing Group and was not required to write a positive review. Any reflection of such is my own.
May 27, 2014
Title: The Spiritual World of The Hobbit.
Author: James Stuart Bell.
Genre: Christian, Nonfiction, Companion Book, Spiritual.
Plot: With the recent Hobbit movies, interest in Tolkien's world has been re-sparked and with it comes new books such as this one that gives a better glimpse into the enchanting world of Middle-Earth. My husband and I were just talking about the spiritual world of Tolkien's books and how they aren't like an allegory at all {like The Chronicles of Narnia are}. Our conversation hit a bump when we couldn't decide if Gandalf was a prophet or an angel.
This new book from Bethany House answers that question {he's technically a guardian angel - I win!} and more. It gives a brief history of Middle Earth, provides character profiles on main people/groups like Gandalf, the eagles and the dwarves. And we get a chapter by chapter look at how Bilbo grows and matures throughout the book, with insights into Tolkien's life and viewpoints. It's all highly fascinating.
Likes/Dislikes: I didn't really think this book would be very interesting but after the first chapter, I found it to be wonderful. I couldn't put it down for very long. It was beautifully written with hardly any repetition and jam-packed with interesting tidbits. My only objection is that there wasn't any additional information on Beorn. He's such an interesting, mysterious character. Oh well.
Rating: PG- 12 and up, for reading level. Highly recommended for all ages.
Date Report Written: May 27th, 2014.
I received a copy of this book free from the publishers in exchange for an honest review. I wasn't required to write a positive review. The opinions expressed in the above review are my own.
Author: James Stuart Bell.
Genre: Christian, Nonfiction, Companion Book, Spiritual.
Plot: With the recent Hobbit movies, interest in Tolkien's world has been re-sparked and with it comes new books such as this one that gives a better glimpse into the enchanting world of Middle-Earth. My husband and I were just talking about the spiritual world of Tolkien's books and how they aren't like an allegory at all {like The Chronicles of Narnia are}. Our conversation hit a bump when we couldn't decide if Gandalf was a prophet or an angel.
This new book from Bethany House answers that question {he's technically a guardian angel - I win!} and more. It gives a brief history of Middle Earth, provides character profiles on main people/groups like Gandalf, the eagles and the dwarves. And we get a chapter by chapter look at how Bilbo grows and matures throughout the book, with insights into Tolkien's life and viewpoints. It's all highly fascinating.
Likes/Dislikes: I didn't really think this book would be very interesting but after the first chapter, I found it to be wonderful. I couldn't put it down for very long. It was beautifully written with hardly any repetition and jam-packed with interesting tidbits. My only objection is that there wasn't any additional information on Beorn. He's such an interesting, mysterious character. Oh well.
Rating: PG- 12 and up, for reading level. Highly recommended for all ages.
Date Report Written: May 27th, 2014.
I received a copy of this book free from the publishers in exchange for an honest review. I wasn't required to write a positive review. The opinions expressed in the above review are my own.
September 23, 2013
The Hobbit/The Lord of the Rings series has been popular for years, but is it just an entertaining story? Is there anything more in it than just a fairy tale? James Stuart Bell looks into what can be learned from The Hobbit, specifically, in The Spiritual World of the Hobbit.
J. R. R. Tolkien’s book has captivated audiences of all ages, and there is more to it than just a good story. Tolkien used his beliefs as a Christian to craft a book that would keep people reading, but that would also offer an opportunity to better understand what is meant by be a Christian. Woven throughout the story, you can find what Tolkien believed, from struggles with fear and pride to being a wise steward of what you have.
Both simple concepts and more complex ones are covered by Bell. Fear is something we all are familiar with, whereas becoming a new creation in Christ may not be as easily understood. Bell does a good job of drawing all the concepts out in a way that is simple to read.
Being a fan of Tolkien’s works, I enjoyed reading Bell’s book, and seeing what Tolkien intended for the series. There were concepts that I had found when I read the series, but The Spiritual World of the Hobbit had more that I had not seen, yet.
I received a free copy from Bethany House in exchange for my review.
J. R. R. Tolkien’s book has captivated audiences of all ages, and there is more to it than just a good story. Tolkien used his beliefs as a Christian to craft a book that would keep people reading, but that would also offer an opportunity to better understand what is meant by be a Christian. Woven throughout the story, you can find what Tolkien believed, from struggles with fear and pride to being a wise steward of what you have.
Both simple concepts and more complex ones are covered by Bell. Fear is something we all are familiar with, whereas becoming a new creation in Christ may not be as easily understood. Bell does a good job of drawing all the concepts out in a way that is simple to read.
Being a fan of Tolkien’s works, I enjoyed reading Bell’s book, and seeing what Tolkien intended for the series. There were concepts that I had found when I read the series, but The Spiritual World of the Hobbit had more that I had not seen, yet.
I received a free copy from Bethany House in exchange for my review.
January 8, 2013
Bell actually dares to ask if we really need another book about the Hobbit. The answer is a resounding yes, of course, and not just because he’s written one that he wants us to buy, but because we need one written by a bona fide Middle Earth expert, or at least aficionado. This book actually begins with a brief section about the life, beliefs, and goals of Tolkien before throwing open the door, running through the Shire, and heading into the vast and dangerous lands of Middle Earth.
The bulk of the book, then, serves as a companion to The Hobbit, offering chapter-for-chapter insights and spiritual nuggets, designed to accompany a reading of the Hobbit much like the director’s commentary track of a DVD except without the director. I believe Bell describes this work as something like a FODOR’s Guide to Middle Earth, a hand book to make sure you don’t miss any of notably landmarks or local cuisine (for thought).
Included throughout the chapters are in-depth character profiles, explorations of literary elements, and other details as Bell manages to provide insight without going off the deep end.
- from TRudATmusic[dot]com[slash]raw 1/8/13
The bulk of the book, then, serves as a companion to The Hobbit, offering chapter-for-chapter insights and spiritual nuggets, designed to accompany a reading of the Hobbit much like the director’s commentary track of a DVD except without the director. I believe Bell describes this work as something like a FODOR’s Guide to Middle Earth, a hand book to make sure you don’t miss any of notably landmarks or local cuisine (for thought).
Included throughout the chapters are in-depth character profiles, explorations of literary elements, and other details as Bell manages to provide insight without going off the deep end.
- from TRudATmusic[dot]com[slash]raw 1/8/13
February 13, 2014
If you are a casual reader of the JRR Tolkien masterpieces, you may not have noticed all the Christian symbolism and ideals the make up the backbone of 'The Hobbit'.
However, if you're a "fan" of 'The Hobbit', you're probably aware of the many examples of good vs evil, pride vs humility, etc that are exhibited in this great work of literature.
Bell has written a great piece of work that serves as a companion book to 'The Hobbit'. The way this book is written encourages the reader to have this handy as they read Tolkien's book. The Tolkien story becomes more than a story as Mr. Bell provides insight and answers to what JRR Tolkien was teaching through this magnificent work.
This book is not necessarily entertaining, but it is interesting and does allow the reader another level of understanding. I recommend this book to all "fans" of the book and encourage the casual reader to try it, you may just find something you didn't realize existed in 'The Hobbit'.
My 13 year old son is getting this one for his birthday; I know he'll love it!
However, if you're a "fan" of 'The Hobbit', you're probably aware of the many examples of good vs evil, pride vs humility, etc that are exhibited in this great work of literature.
Bell has written a great piece of work that serves as a companion book to 'The Hobbit'. The way this book is written encourages the reader to have this handy as they read Tolkien's book. The Tolkien story becomes more than a story as Mr. Bell provides insight and answers to what JRR Tolkien was teaching through this magnificent work.
This book is not necessarily entertaining, but it is interesting and does allow the reader another level of understanding. I recommend this book to all "fans" of the book and encourage the casual reader to try it, you may just find something you didn't realize existed in 'The Hobbit'.
My 13 year old son is getting this one for his birthday; I know he'll love it!
November 18, 2013
****** This is a First Reads **** Thank You Goodreads ****
A wonderful companion book to take along with a reread of The Hobbit. Written truly by a Tolkien lover to bring enlightenment and extra spiritual message to the reader. Go in depth within chapters, characters, the development of good versus evil, and the the Divine. References to The Silmarillion and comparisons to Catholicism are made and easily understood, with quotes and verses included.
From leadership to Divine Assistance, this is the book that you want to share and would be a great use in your book club to discuss. Mr. Bell has not left a stone unturned in Tolkien's work, and he reminds us that just as Bilbo - we are unfinished and there is more to us than we even know. I hope you will pick this one up and enjoy the journey.
A wonderful companion book to take along with a reread of The Hobbit. Written truly by a Tolkien lover to bring enlightenment and extra spiritual message to the reader. Go in depth within chapters, characters, the development of good versus evil, and the the Divine. References to The Silmarillion and comparisons to Catholicism are made and easily understood, with quotes and verses included.
From leadership to Divine Assistance, this is the book that you want to share and would be a great use in your book club to discuss. Mr. Bell has not left a stone unturned in Tolkien's work, and he reminds us that just as Bilbo - we are unfinished and there is more to us than we even know. I hope you will pick this one up and enjoy the journey.
October 17, 2019
This was definitely a good book! First thing to note? It’s not a devotional. I had to re-orient my mindset a few times, as I went into this one thinking “devotional” and that’s not really at all what it is. I was very impressed by the amount of research that Bell put into Hobbit and Lord of the Rings – he clearly knew what he was talking about. He draws valid points, without trying to dig too deep or pull in things that aren’t there, and he wasn’t too preachy. I especially liked the character profiles of Gandalf and Elrond – informative and interesting. Good background info there, I thought. All in all? This was an enjoyable book that I learned from and found interesting. Read it in conjunction with The Hobbit!
**Bethany House sent me a copy of this book in return for my honest review. I wasn’t obligated to review it positively, nor was I recompensed in any other way for this review.**
**Bethany House sent me a copy of this book in return for my honest review. I wasn’t obligated to review it positively, nor was I recompensed in any other way for this review.**
January 31, 2014
I received this through First Reads Giveaways.
It was a great read. If you love The Hobbit, then you need to read this book. It is just a beautiful companion piece to the original story. It's so wonderful that you'd think it was written by Tolkien himself. I just loved it. The only reason I didn't give it five stars is because it DID have a few grammatical errors that detract, but still... Great book.
It was a great read. If you love The Hobbit, then you need to read this book. It is just a beautiful companion piece to the original story. It's so wonderful that you'd think it was written by Tolkien himself. I just loved it. The only reason I didn't give it five stars is because it DID have a few grammatical errors that detract, but still... Great book.
May 7, 2014
I won this from the first reads giveaways and I'm so glad I did because it is a wonderful book. Not only does this book give lots of information about the history of Middle-earth but it also gives Biblical insight to The Hobbit. I really enjoyed delving into Middle-earth and the story of the Hobbit, as well as seeing how Tolkien was inspired by the Bible and how he interwove Biblical truths into his stories. Overall this is a great read that is well written!
October 15, 2014
This book was a great companion as we read the hobbit aloud to our children. I read the hobbit so long ago that it really helped refresh a lot of the details from the simarillion that I had forgotten that enriched the story.
goodreadingguide-com
November 9, 2014HS reviewing for www.goodreadingguide.com
Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews