What do you think?
Rate this book
Finding God in the Hobbit
Thousands have been captivated by the spiritual themes that underlie Tolkien's imaginative fiction. In Finding God in The Hobbit, Jim Ware indulges readers with an exploration of the spiritual significance of J. R. R. Tolkien's famous children's classic. As they are acquainted with Tolkien's message of transcendent truth, readers will see how God is mysteriously at work even in everyday moments. A reflection summarizes each chapter's main insight.
Audio CD
First published September 6, 2006
18 people are currently reading
174 people want to read
About the author
Jim Ware
42 books20 followersJim Ware is a graduate of Fuller Theological Seminary and is now a writer living in Colorado Springs. He is the author of several books, including the best-selling Finding God in the Lord of the Rings (with Kurt Bruner), as well as numerous books for children.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
March 26, 2020
“God can and does find us almost anywhere—that He seeks us in the most unlikely places and draws us to Himself even when we’re not looking for Him.”
A competent review of how a Christian reader may find divine content in J. R. R. Tolkien’s famous book. Basically a Christian commentary on the text by topic, not page-by-page.
“The world is a bigger place than I realized, Gandalf. I see now that it contains many things beyond the grasp of my puny imagination.” Gandalf laughed. “If that is your view, then I would suggest that your imagination is keener and more far-reaching than most!” JRRT
Well done, if not earthshaking. Follows the pattern established by Ware and Kurt Bruner in their Finding God in the Lord of the Rings.
“God meets us not through concepts, curricula, or catechisms, but in that miraculous place where the Word becomes Flesh; the place where we, like the fishermen of Galilee, suddenly find ourselves swept up into the plot of the greatest Story of all.”
A competent review of how a Christian reader may find divine content in J. R. R. Tolkien’s famous book. Basically a Christian commentary on the text by topic, not page-by-page.
“The world is a bigger place than I realized, Gandalf. I see now that it contains many things beyond the grasp of my puny imagination.” Gandalf laughed. “If that is your view, then I would suggest that your imagination is keener and more far-reaching than most!” JRRT
Well done, if not earthshaking. Follows the pattern established by Ware and Kurt Bruner in their Finding God in the Lord of the Rings.
“God meets us not through concepts, curricula, or catechisms, but in that miraculous place where the Word becomes Flesh; the place where we, like the fishermen of Galilee, suddenly find ourselves swept up into the plot of the greatest Story of all.”
June 14, 2017
I loved this in-depth look at the Christian themes found in the Hobbit! Tolkien is one of my top three favorite authors, so I was hanging on every word.
The author takes various characters, events, dialogue, and plot points from the Hobbit and then uses them to illustrate a Biblical truth. He really brought forth some excellent points that I had never thought of before! I loved how the author worked "around" a principle, and showed you all the facets and different sides, and then hammered it home simply and concisely. I loved the forceful writing style!
I wish that there had been more literary analysis though. It read more like a devotional book with personal stories, nuggets of wisdom, and a "thought for the day" kind of moral at the end of each chapter. I liked that, but I was hoping for more analysis of literary history, fairytale story structures, classical writing influences, Greek philosophy, etc...
In short, I wanted it to be more intellectual than it was.
But the devotional style of the book was good too! I enjoyed reading it so much, and I was even brought to tears a couple of times.
The author takes various characters, events, dialogue, and plot points from the Hobbit and then uses them to illustrate a Biblical truth. He really brought forth some excellent points that I had never thought of before! I loved how the author worked "around" a principle, and showed you all the facets and different sides, and then hammered it home simply and concisely. I loved the forceful writing style!
I wish that there had been more literary analysis though. It read more like a devotional book with personal stories, nuggets of wisdom, and a "thought for the day" kind of moral at the end of each chapter. I liked that, but I was hoping for more analysis of literary history, fairytale story structures, classical writing influences, Greek philosophy, etc...
In short, I wanted it to be more intellectual than it was.
But the devotional style of the book was good too! I enjoyed reading it so much, and I was even brought to tears a couple of times.
December 14, 2012
With, "The Hobbit, and "Lord of the Rings", being re-introduced to young and old, "Finding God in the Hobbit" is an allegorical reflection of Middle Earth and how like Bilbo Baggins finds himself, an ordinary hobbit, caught up in extraordinary events, so the same with God at work, sometimes in the forefront and sometimes, behind the scenes, in our lives.
Using passages from "The Hobbit and"Bible, Jim Ware, compares the two along with what we can take in our own lives, not just from Bilbo Baggins, but what the Bible has to offer in its own stories of ordinary people, often used in extraordinary ways.
Sharing bits of triva, not only about,"The Hobbit, but also about Tolkien, Jim Ware really interweaves what readers can take from enjoying not just a timeless book like the Bible, but even that of, "The Hobbit.
What Jim Ware attempts and manages to convey throughout the book is how even in an exquisite tale like, "The Hobbit, we can find hints of the major themes of God's work woven throughout, tales of faith, grace, redemption and hope.
The book,"Finding God in the Hobbit", is overall a short and easy read at 168 pages. Filled with allegorical interpretations and ruminations based on both, "The Hobbit and, the "Bible,"Finding God in the Hobbit" really helps take reading the book,The Hobbit to a diferent level. In addition, Jim Ware's work, brings out the themes that Tolkien's background as a Roman Catholic, his blending of Celtic, Anglo and Old Norse mythology, that can be seen throughout the The Hobbit and the rest of the triology.
As a fan of Tolkien and the "Lord of the Rings" books, "Finding God in the Hobbit" was a joy to read, not only because of the loved passages that are included throughout the book, but for the underlying Christian themes that, though it wasn't the intent of the books, when they were written, can clearly be seen and recognized in the archetypes that are presented throughout the books.
July 6, 2021
Welp. I don't love this like I hoped too. I didn't enjoy the re-narration at the start of each chapter. I'm here for Tolkien. Just start with Tolkien. I felt like some of his points were really reaching, while others were so obvious because Tolkien was a Christian, so yes, that is going to influence his writing, just like Mormons are influenced by their Mormanism. We don't write in a vacuum. What we believe will be there in our stories. So, parts were a stretch and parts were annoyingly easy to show.
I did enjoy the last two chapters more than the others, so it ended strong.
Lewis' influence was easy to see in this book. I think that is where the parts that were beautiful came from.
There were a few moments I questioned his conclusions about different aspects of what Tolkien was saying in the Hobbit. I don't mark these, but they left me wanting to do more study and argue. Lol.
A quick read, but not one I feel was really necessary or that I want to add to my shelf.
Also, his theology was kinda all over the place making me again, want to argue through the whole book. Much of it was probably me just thinking that I wouldn't say that point that way, but he also had some downright unbiblical views. In one chapter he disregarded church and preaching when compared to listening to the Spurit in your heart, and in another place he got real close to saying that good can't live without evil, which isn't a Biblical or Christian concept.
So, this book was okay, but not my favorite by any means.
This is part of the books my dear Emily gave me to read. Finally working through the rest of them!
I did enjoy the last two chapters more than the others, so it ended strong.
Lewis' influence was easy to see in this book. I think that is where the parts that were beautiful came from.
There were a few moments I questioned his conclusions about different aspects of what Tolkien was saying in the Hobbit. I don't mark these, but they left me wanting to do more study and argue. Lol.
A quick read, but not one I feel was really necessary or that I want to add to my shelf.
Also, his theology was kinda all over the place making me again, want to argue through the whole book. Much of it was probably me just thinking that I wouldn't say that point that way, but he also had some downright unbiblical views. In one chapter he disregarded church and preaching when compared to listening to the Spurit in your heart, and in another place he got real close to saying that good can't live without evil, which isn't a Biblical or Christian concept.
So, this book was okay, but not my favorite by any means.
This is part of the books my dear Emily gave me to read. Finally working through the rest of them!
May 3, 2025
The book was not what I expected, but I liked it! It's really a collection of small devotionals using the Hobbit as an object lesson. The insights were mostly good and I really enjoyed revisiting the Hobbit with one reader's thoughts on how the story can make readers better Christians.
A few thoughts that stuck with me:
Bilbo was a reluctant leader, as all leaders should be, not just because they're humble but because they realize there's literally nothing in it for them: leadership is just an opportunity to serve.
Bilbo had wanted adventure when he was young, but when the dwarves knocked on his door he nearly turned down their offer, as we often do when faced with the moment of our dreams become reality and not just fantasy. Will you take on an adventure when it's not just theoretical?
It sure would have been nice to use the eagles earlier and more often, but they're symbols of divine grace, which none of us can commission. Grace intercedes at the will of God, and we can only be grateful when it does show up.
Gandalf the wizard is more like an angel incarnate, whose real power grows out of who he is, his wise counsel, his unwavering goodness. He's no conjurer of cheap tricks, like a traditional magician. His magic comes from who he is.
A few thoughts that stuck with me:
Bilbo was a reluctant leader, as all leaders should be, not just because they're humble but because they realize there's literally nothing in it for them: leadership is just an opportunity to serve.
Bilbo had wanted adventure when he was young, but when the dwarves knocked on his door he nearly turned down their offer, as we often do when faced with the moment of our dreams become reality and not just fantasy. Will you take on an adventure when it's not just theoretical?
It sure would have been nice to use the eagles earlier and more often, but they're symbols of divine grace, which none of us can commission. Grace intercedes at the will of God, and we can only be grateful when it does show up.
Gandalf the wizard is more like an angel incarnate, whose real power grows out of who he is, his wise counsel, his unwavering goodness. He's no conjurer of cheap tricks, like a traditional magician. His magic comes from who he is.
September 17, 2020
Jim Ware provides fabulous insights and nuggets of wisdom that Christian readers can gain from Tolkien's classic. The book examines a new unique gleaning in each chapter, where Ware takes a fresh look at interesting details and critical points in the book through a biblical perspective, sharing personal insights and fascinating facts that pull everything together into practical learning points for the reader, and finally tying it all down with relevant scripture.
This book was a fun read, and an interesting one with a very unique intention as Ware sets out to show his readers- not that there is an allegory of the gospel in the Hobbit (which Tolkien, though a Christian himself, adamantly denied) but that, by light of the Gospel, we may see shining biblical truths jump out at us from this well-loved and adventuresome tale. An enjoyable, thought-provoking book that I would describe as somewhere between a casual fireside chat with an old friend about the Hobbit, and a singularly unique Christian devotional which seeks to find glimmers of biblical truth within Tolkien's adventures (and maybe even some of our own, as well). Highly recommend!
This book was a fun read, and an interesting one with a very unique intention as Ware sets out to show his readers- not that there is an allegory of the gospel in the Hobbit (which Tolkien, though a Christian himself, adamantly denied) but that, by light of the Gospel, we may see shining biblical truths jump out at us from this well-loved and adventuresome tale. An enjoyable, thought-provoking book that I would describe as somewhere between a casual fireside chat with an old friend about the Hobbit, and a singularly unique Christian devotional which seeks to find glimmers of biblical truth within Tolkien's adventures (and maybe even some of our own, as well). Highly recommend!
October 1, 2018
I always found that The Hobbit was the least good work of J.R.R. Tolkien's books. I saw it as a children's book, and not quite exciting if you compare it to Lord Of The Rings, The Silmarillion or other Tolkien's publications. But when you read Ware's book, you can find that Tolkien never wrote just to be published or to sell his books. He always had a lesson to teach.
Even though that I found it sometimes exaggerating, and I couldn't find it really reliable, between religion and The Hobbit story; but what I loved the most about the book: Finding God in the Hobbit, is how the author could learn something with each word of the story. And actually, it changed my opinion about The Hobbit. It's just like showing us that we choose how to understand a book. But most of all, that Tolkien is still amazing us.
Even though that I found it sometimes exaggerating, and I couldn't find it really reliable, between religion and The Hobbit story; but what I loved the most about the book: Finding God in the Hobbit, is how the author could learn something with each word of the story. And actually, it changed my opinion about The Hobbit. It's just like showing us that we choose how to understand a book. But most of all, that Tolkien is still amazing us.
November 10, 2019
What does Bilbo’s awakening from his complacent comfort in the shire by a rowdy group of greedy dwarves have to do with us? What is our parallel to the ring he finds and can we relate to his dangerous quest? Have you ever wondered what the deal was with the eagles that swoop in to periodically save the day? They are Manwe’s eagles, couldn’t they have just carried the ring to Mordor?
Well, this amazing book will answer these and many other questions as it walks through major points in the Hobbit and helps discuss Biblical themes. It would definitely be helpful to be familiar with the Hobbit, but he does a great job giving extended quotes and walking through the story so you don’t need to read the two back to back.
I listened to the audiobook published by Christian Audio and Simon Vance is officially my favorite narrator. I’ve listened to many books read by him and he is fantastic.
Well, this amazing book will answer these and many other questions as it walks through major points in the Hobbit and helps discuss Biblical themes. It would definitely be helpful to be familiar with the Hobbit, but he does a great job giving extended quotes and walking through the story so you don’t need to read the two back to back.
I listened to the audiobook published by Christian Audio and Simon Vance is officially my favorite narrator. I’ve listened to many books read by him and he is fantastic.
August 10, 2023
Finding God in the Hobbit
J R R Tolkien wrote a masterpiece that arguably created the fantasy genre and many of the creatures that are now associated with the genre. Is the story just a fun fantasy story as Tolkien said or is there more involved?
This was a really interesting book. It takes a small portion of The Hobbit and breaks it down. The author uses historical information, Biblical references, and his own personal insights to help see what might be behind the story. Tolkien’s Christian faith does shine through in many areas. He even answered one plot hole that has been bugging me for years.
Content Warning: none
J R R Tolkien wrote a masterpiece that arguably created the fantasy genre and many of the creatures that are now associated with the genre. Is the story just a fun fantasy story as Tolkien said or is there more involved?
This was a really interesting book. It takes a small portion of The Hobbit and breaks it down. The author uses historical information, Biblical references, and his own personal insights to help see what might be behind the story. Tolkien’s Christian faith does shine through in many areas. He even answered one plot hole that has been bugging me for years.
Content Warning: none
June 28, 2020
Worth re-reading!
January 4, 2021
Well done. Helps if you are familiar with The Hobbit, The Lord of the Rings, and the Bible. I found it helped me enjoy The Hobbit even more and wanting to reread it.
May 6, 2025
Wonderful book, loved all the insightfulness of the writer!
September 30, 2025
Interesting look at the themes in the hobbit from a faith perspective, including helpful summaries of those themes
January 29, 2016
This book is fairly slim, coming in at around 200 relatively small pages if one includes its introduction. Yet, for its small size, much like a hobbit in fact, it is a worthwhile book in defending the worth of fantasy literature to a Christian audience. Perhaps it is a bit sad that a book with such obvious themes of grace and divine providence would require justification, but there are plenty of people who have such a narrow view of what kind of music or literature is acceptable that even something like Tolkien's work falls short of their exacting standards [1]. At any rate, this delightful little book keeps the sermonizing to a minimum but manages to draw wonderful lessons from the events and characters of the Hobbit, pointing out what should be fairly obvious to anyone who has read the Lord of the Rings and definitely anyone who saw the film adaptations of the book [2], which makes obvious what Tolkien wrote more subtly, as is often the case with films in general.
In terms of its contents, this book contains about twenty short chapters that quote and refer to various aspects of The Hobbit and draw Christian insights from them. These chapters are examined in chronological order and demonstrate that for the characters, as is true also in our own lives, that we are a part of matters much larger our own lives alone, and that we were created for adventure even if we live most of our lives in fairly mundane existence. With its combination of biographical and autobiographical materials, its worthwhile scriptural exegesis, and its skillful literary analysis, this book makes for a handy source of worthwhile material for those who feel the need to justify reading fantasy literature to themselves (if they are the sort of people who make pretensions to more serious reading) or to others who question the moral and spiritual value of such genre fiction of a potentially disreputable sort, with the hints of magic. At any rate, if that sort of justification is necessary, this book is easy to read and part of a series that deals with related books, so it is not hard to find or to appropriate for one's purposes.
Besides being a practical book for those who feel it necessary to defend their reading choices in the fantasy genre, this book is a joy to read, and also full of thought-provoking material. For example, the author has this to say about dreams: "To sleep! Perchance to dream...Ay, there's the rub indeed. For dreams can shatter restful, comfortable slumber. And the ramifications of a dream come true aren't always what you had expected. Hopes and longings nurtured in the secret darkness having a way of taking on a different shape in daylight of reality (3)." This is spoken like someone who knows. The author also quotes a few scriptures to defend those who are thought of as a bit grim and skeptical of rose-colored visions of a glorious future. The author comments on the nuance of how God operates with mankind, and also very intelligently on the way that our creations, springing as they do out of our own hearts and minds, reveal our beliefs and practices, our experiences, our hopes and fears, our worldviews, even if we are not writing allegories consciously. This is a book that is small in size, but full of worth.
[1] See, for example:
https://edgeinducedcohesion.wordpress...
https://edgeinducedcohesion.wordpress...
https://edgeinducedcohesion.wordpress...
https://edgeinducedcohesion.wordpress...
[2] See, for example:
https://edgeinducedcohesion.wordpress...
https://edgeinducedcohesion.wordpress...
https://edgeinducedcohesion.wordpress...
In terms of its contents, this book contains about twenty short chapters that quote and refer to various aspects of The Hobbit and draw Christian insights from them. These chapters are examined in chronological order and demonstrate that for the characters, as is true also in our own lives, that we are a part of matters much larger our own lives alone, and that we were created for adventure even if we live most of our lives in fairly mundane existence. With its combination of biographical and autobiographical materials, its worthwhile scriptural exegesis, and its skillful literary analysis, this book makes for a handy source of worthwhile material for those who feel the need to justify reading fantasy literature to themselves (if they are the sort of people who make pretensions to more serious reading) or to others who question the moral and spiritual value of such genre fiction of a potentially disreputable sort, with the hints of magic. At any rate, if that sort of justification is necessary, this book is easy to read and part of a series that deals with related books, so it is not hard to find or to appropriate for one's purposes.
Besides being a practical book for those who feel it necessary to defend their reading choices in the fantasy genre, this book is a joy to read, and also full of thought-provoking material. For example, the author has this to say about dreams: "To sleep! Perchance to dream...Ay, there's the rub indeed. For dreams can shatter restful, comfortable slumber. And the ramifications of a dream come true aren't always what you had expected. Hopes and longings nurtured in the secret darkness having a way of taking on a different shape in daylight of reality (3)." This is spoken like someone who knows. The author also quotes a few scriptures to defend those who are thought of as a bit grim and skeptical of rose-colored visions of a glorious future. The author comments on the nuance of how God operates with mankind, and also very intelligently on the way that our creations, springing as they do out of our own hearts and minds, reveal our beliefs and practices, our experiences, our hopes and fears, our worldviews, even if we are not writing allegories consciously. This is a book that is small in size, but full of worth.
[1] See, for example:
https://edgeinducedcohesion.wordpress...
https://edgeinducedcohesion.wordpress...
https://edgeinducedcohesion.wordpress...
https://edgeinducedcohesion.wordpress...
[2] See, for example:
https://edgeinducedcohesion.wordpress...
https://edgeinducedcohesion.wordpress...
https://edgeinducedcohesion.wordpress...
December 28, 2012
Dreams, fears, pleasures, laughter, God's unexpected intervention, endurance, tried patience, kindness and dependence on God continually weave together to shape our lives; through them, we learn dependence on God - which should prevail despite any circumstances. Bilbo's adventure in Middle Earth is no exception, and his journey is Jim Ware's illustration of the latter.
In the prologue, the author explains that this book is the result of his own reflections on "The Hobbit," which eventually took him back to God, the one who has made his life meaningful by giving it a purpose, just as Bilbo's life, through the fulfillment of his purpose, found its true meaning.
The chapters have a simple and straightforward format. First, there is an extract from "The Hobbit," which is followed by an analytical description of the approach and attitude towards God that can be found in several people in the Bible. As a valuable token, each chapter is closed with a simple and deep statement that summarizes the spiritual lesson we can learn from Bilbo's own path.
Despite the simplicity of the format, the deep and transcendental insights of each chapter are worthy to be savored slowly, even more than once. This is one of the few books that have stirred in me the wish to reread chapters and paragraphs, even sentences...
Moreover, the richness of the words Mr. Ware uses is rarely found in today's popular literature, making this a delightful read for anyone who appreciates the vast possibilities of a higher linguistic register. Precisely because of this, I would definitely recommend this book as a teaching tool in any literature or applied theology class; it is well worth the experience. Besides this, his numerous end notes and bibliography will prove to be good references. I can also picture this book being used as a devotional, particularly by those who like Tolkien or this kind of stories.
And just like the author himself states, this book describes a journey of spiritual discovery, but is not the decisive authority on the matter, very probably the reason why Bible quotes and principles are present throughout the book. It is his way of writing about how the great Author of life is always shaping our path.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Tyndale House Publishers, in exchange for an honest review. This has not biased my opinion.
Comment Comment | Permalink
In the prologue, the author explains that this book is the result of his own reflections on "The Hobbit," which eventually took him back to God, the one who has made his life meaningful by giving it a purpose, just as Bilbo's life, through the fulfillment of his purpose, found its true meaning.
The chapters have a simple and straightforward format. First, there is an extract from "The Hobbit," which is followed by an analytical description of the approach and attitude towards God that can be found in several people in the Bible. As a valuable token, each chapter is closed with a simple and deep statement that summarizes the spiritual lesson we can learn from Bilbo's own path.
Despite the simplicity of the format, the deep and transcendental insights of each chapter are worthy to be savored slowly, even more than once. This is one of the few books that have stirred in me the wish to reread chapters and paragraphs, even sentences...
Moreover, the richness of the words Mr. Ware uses is rarely found in today's popular literature, making this a delightful read for anyone who appreciates the vast possibilities of a higher linguistic register. Precisely because of this, I would definitely recommend this book as a teaching tool in any literature or applied theology class; it is well worth the experience. Besides this, his numerous end notes and bibliography will prove to be good references. I can also picture this book being used as a devotional, particularly by those who like Tolkien or this kind of stories.
And just like the author himself states, this book describes a journey of spiritual discovery, but is not the decisive authority on the matter, very probably the reason why Bible quotes and principles are present throughout the book. It is his way of writing about how the great Author of life is always shaping our path.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Tyndale House Publishers, in exchange for an honest review. This has not biased my opinion.
Comment Comment | Permalink
December 21, 2012
Finding God in the Hobbit
Jim Ware
Publicity Summary: With a simple hobbit in a simple hobbit-hole, Tolkien opened the window on a whole new world that has captured millions of imaginations and changed the face of literature forever. But this story of unexpected adventure is far more than goblin attacks, dragon-hoards, and riddles in the dark. It's a journey that changes a simple hobbit named Bilbo---and us---along the way. Ware, coauthor of Finding God in The Lord of the Rings, once again unlocks the mysteries of Middle-earth with insightful reflections on the scenes and characters of The Hobbit. You'll discover the deep connections that link this fantasy world to our own and unveil the mysterious workings of the Author of the Tale in your own life. Just as the very ordinary Bilbo Baggins was caught up in a web of momentous events beyond his understanding, so you also are part of a larger story. Travel to Middle-earth to discover some ways in which God is still very much at work in our world---and has a bigger purpose for you than you can ever imagine.
Book Review: I enjoyed learning more of J.R.R. Tolkien’s faith and history. That his world view was so engaged in the Word of God is what separates his writing from purely allegory. I found myself really thinking about this during the book. Mr. Tolkien’s mind set was so centered on Christ that he never gave a thought to imposing it on his books it just was him. I enjoyed the over view tour of the Hobbit. It brought back memories of my first encounter with this story. Going back and forth between the book and the man was engrossing. I am very glad that I had the opportunity to spend time with this book. It was well worth it.
I would like to thank Tyndale House Publishers for allowing me to read and review this book in return for a free copy and I was never asked to write a favorable review by anyone.
Jim Ware
Publicity Summary: With a simple hobbit in a simple hobbit-hole, Tolkien opened the window on a whole new world that has captured millions of imaginations and changed the face of literature forever. But this story of unexpected adventure is far more than goblin attacks, dragon-hoards, and riddles in the dark. It's a journey that changes a simple hobbit named Bilbo---and us---along the way. Ware, coauthor of Finding God in The Lord of the Rings, once again unlocks the mysteries of Middle-earth with insightful reflections on the scenes and characters of The Hobbit. You'll discover the deep connections that link this fantasy world to our own and unveil the mysterious workings of the Author of the Tale in your own life. Just as the very ordinary Bilbo Baggins was caught up in a web of momentous events beyond his understanding, so you also are part of a larger story. Travel to Middle-earth to discover some ways in which God is still very much at work in our world---and has a bigger purpose for you than you can ever imagine.
Book Review: I enjoyed learning more of J.R.R. Tolkien’s faith and history. That his world view was so engaged in the Word of God is what separates his writing from purely allegory. I found myself really thinking about this during the book. Mr. Tolkien’s mind set was so centered on Christ that he never gave a thought to imposing it on his books it just was him. I enjoyed the over view tour of the Hobbit. It brought back memories of my first encounter with this story. Going back and forth between the book and the man was engrossing. I am very glad that I had the opportunity to spend time with this book. It was well worth it.
I would like to thank Tyndale House Publishers for allowing me to read and review this book in return for a free copy and I was never asked to write a favorable review by anyone.
January 9, 2013
For the full review and other book reviews please visit my blog. Thanks!
To be honest, this book wasn't exactly what I expected it to be. With a title like Finding God in the Hobbit, I would imagine it to be an analysis of the story and how that exemplifies the various points of a Christian worldview. For example, Ware does do this a little bit in his discussion of how we can accept a story featuring a wizard since, seemingly, this is banned in the Bible. However, this book is more reflective and devotional. The chapters are short and designed around using elements of the story to reflect on scripture and the nature of Christian life.
Even though this was different that what I expected, it was still enjoyable. Ware does a good job of using Tolkien's work as a springboard for a Christian lesson. Because I enjoy Tolkien's books and the extent to which he has developed them, I would have liked a more in depth discussion. There is a lot to be said about the characters of Tolkien's world and the Christian elements that he has built into it. Ware's book is great, but just scratches the surface of these great works. If you are new to Tolkien, this book is a great place to start. If you have been a lifelong fan of Tolkien and his works, then Finding God in the Hobbit might not satisfy your desire to dive into the Christian themes to be found in Middle Earth.
I received this book free from Tyndale House Publishers as part of their book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
To be honest, this book wasn't exactly what I expected it to be. With a title like Finding God in the Hobbit, I would imagine it to be an analysis of the story and how that exemplifies the various points of a Christian worldview. For example, Ware does do this a little bit in his discussion of how we can accept a story featuring a wizard since, seemingly, this is banned in the Bible. However, this book is more reflective and devotional. The chapters are short and designed around using elements of the story to reflect on scripture and the nature of Christian life.
Even though this was different that what I expected, it was still enjoyable. Ware does a good job of using Tolkien's work as a springboard for a Christian lesson. Because I enjoy Tolkien's books and the extent to which he has developed them, I would have liked a more in depth discussion. There is a lot to be said about the characters of Tolkien's world and the Christian elements that he has built into it. Ware's book is great, but just scratches the surface of these great works. If you are new to Tolkien, this book is a great place to start. If you have been a lifelong fan of Tolkien and his works, then Finding God in the Hobbit might not satisfy your desire to dive into the Christian themes to be found in Middle Earth.
I received this book free from Tyndale House Publishers as part of their book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
January 18, 2013
Yes I have been reading a lot of books about The Hobbit. Yes, it is because of the Movie. I must thank all the publishers for putting out books to catch the Movie wave.
Finding God in the Hobbit reads like a devotional. It does cover several deep topics at times, but each chapter was too short to do some of the topics justice.
Each chapter follows this structure: First an extensive (a few pages) quoting from The Hobbit. Then, an explanation of whatever that passage is supposed to signify, with lots of additional material cited as and when needed. If you haven't read The Hobbit, all this quoting is going to disorientate you.
The topics covered in this book are actually quite interesting. I would have preferred it if the author narrowed down the number of topics, and instead, chose to go in depth in a few of them. It would have made it much richer reading, instead of fleeing bites.
Otherwise, there's not much to differentiate it from the other Hobbit Devotionals I've reviewed. They're all good, and it really just depends on which one you pick up first.
My favourite quote from this book is:
"For to laugh in desperate circumstances and sing in the face of disaster is nothing less than an act of bold and daring faith. It's a sign of salvation to the watching world, evidence of hope that lies just beyong the fringes of the darkness."
Disclaimer: I got a free copy of this book courtesy of Tyndale Blog Network in exchange for a free and honest review
First published at Inside the mind of a Bibliophile
Finding God in the Hobbit reads like a devotional. It does cover several deep topics at times, but each chapter was too short to do some of the topics justice.
Each chapter follows this structure: First an extensive (a few pages) quoting from The Hobbit. Then, an explanation of whatever that passage is supposed to signify, with lots of additional material cited as and when needed. If you haven't read The Hobbit, all this quoting is going to disorientate you.
The topics covered in this book are actually quite interesting. I would have preferred it if the author narrowed down the number of topics, and instead, chose to go in depth in a few of them. It would have made it much richer reading, instead of fleeing bites.
Otherwise, there's not much to differentiate it from the other Hobbit Devotionals I've reviewed. They're all good, and it really just depends on which one you pick up first.
My favourite quote from this book is:
"For to laugh in desperate circumstances and sing in the face of disaster is nothing less than an act of bold and daring faith. It's a sign of salvation to the watching world, evidence of hope that lies just beyong the fringes of the darkness."
Disclaimer: I got a free copy of this book courtesy of Tyndale Blog Network in exchange for a free and honest review
First published at Inside the mind of a Bibliophile
December 19, 2013
When ChristianAudio offered me the opportunity to review Finding God in the Hobbit, I nearly declined. I’m not a particularly big fan of this type of work. After reading the book, I have to say that, in general, I am still not a fan of this kind of book. However, there are certainly things about this book that made it nice to read.
Jim Ware has clearly put a lot of thought into Tolkien’s works, and has done a good job of finding important moral principles in The Hobbit and Lord of the Rings. For a mom or dad who is reading these books with his or her kids, Ware’s work could be an excellent source of conversation that goes deeper than the books’ plots.
On the other hand, some of Ware’s findings are, even according to Ware, admittedly beyond Tolkien’s intent. I would argue that we need to be very careful in finding principles or hints toward God that are outside of what the author of the work wanted us to find.
Overall, I was glad to have a chance to read Ware’s work and to think about The Hobbit in a deeper way. However, my recommendation of this book would be limited to those who are eager to read exactly this kind of work and not to the general public.
The recording of this book that I received from ChristianAudio in exchange for an honest review was excellently read by Simon Vance. His voice and inflections brought to life a work that I might not have finished had it not been read well.
Jim Ware has clearly put a lot of thought into Tolkien’s works, and has done a good job of finding important moral principles in The Hobbit and Lord of the Rings. For a mom or dad who is reading these books with his or her kids, Ware’s work could be an excellent source of conversation that goes deeper than the books’ plots.
On the other hand, some of Ware’s findings are, even according to Ware, admittedly beyond Tolkien’s intent. I would argue that we need to be very careful in finding principles or hints toward God that are outside of what the author of the work wanted us to find.
Overall, I was glad to have a chance to read Ware’s work and to think about The Hobbit in a deeper way. However, my recommendation of this book would be limited to those who are eager to read exactly this kind of work and not to the general public.
The recording of this book that I received from ChristianAudio in exchange for an honest review was excellently read by Simon Vance. His voice and inflections brought to life a work that I might not have finished had it not been read well.
December 16, 2012
"A tender heart is a marvelously impractical thing." pg. 55
Have you read and enjoyed "The Hobbit"? Did you wonder at the spiritual themes presented? In this book, Jim Ware explores the spiritual side to "The Hobbit" and how it can apply to your life.
"The Hobbit" by J.R.R. Tolkein is the beloved tale of Bilbo Baggins and his steps of faith in his adventure. Tolkein was a Christian who could spin a wonderful tale and interweave spiritual principles. As Jim Ware writes the chapters in this book, the reader can quickly see that Mr. Ware not only knows Tolkein, but he knows how to pull out the spiritual lessons in the writings. Chapter titles include: "Doom of the Dunderheads," "Cream and Honey," and "Reluctant Leader;" and each begins with a short passage from Tolkein's work and ends with a reflection. This hardcover reprinting (just in time for the movie!) will make a wonderful gift for just about anyone.
I am a Tolkein lover and enjoy picking up books that delve into his work. I found this book to be insightful and one that made me want to pick up "The Hobbit" again so I can see exactly the way things dovetail throughout the book. Not only will this make a wonderful gift, but book discussion groups may enjoy discussing the thoughts inside over time. I received my review copy from Tyndale House Publishers in exchange for an honest review.
Have you read and enjoyed "The Hobbit"? Did you wonder at the spiritual themes presented? In this book, Jim Ware explores the spiritual side to "The Hobbit" and how it can apply to your life.
"The Hobbit" by J.R.R. Tolkein is the beloved tale of Bilbo Baggins and his steps of faith in his adventure. Tolkein was a Christian who could spin a wonderful tale and interweave spiritual principles. As Jim Ware writes the chapters in this book, the reader can quickly see that Mr. Ware not only knows Tolkein, but he knows how to pull out the spiritual lessons in the writings. Chapter titles include: "Doom of the Dunderheads," "Cream and Honey," and "Reluctant Leader;" and each begins with a short passage from Tolkein's work and ends with a reflection. This hardcover reprinting (just in time for the movie!) will make a wonderful gift for just about anyone.
I am a Tolkein lover and enjoy picking up books that delve into his work. I found this book to be insightful and one that made me want to pick up "The Hobbit" again so I can see exactly the way things dovetail throughout the book. Not only will this make a wonderful gift, but book discussion groups may enjoy discussing the thoughts inside over time. I received my review copy from Tyndale House Publishers in exchange for an honest review.
October 10, 2013
Remember how Christians tie in everything they can to get people to read books? Jim Ware is good at this as far as Tolkien is concerned.
He wrote a book called Finding God in The Lord of the Rings so it makes sense that he would have another one based on The Hobbit. And that publishers would want to push this book with the movie releasing.
Ware gives us a nice, small hardback book with twenty chapters. But don't let that number scare you, this book is like the God-cliffnotes for anyone interested. You'll get very short chapters that begin with a brief overview of part of the story and then unpacks the God-stuff.
I found some of the points he brought out to be interesting and not the typical ideas you'd assume to find in a book about finding God within a story.
This book may make a nice discussion starter for those who aren't familiar with The Hobbit, but diehard fans might be insulted by this and I imagine they could go even deeper in their discussions. Make no mistake, Ware knows his stuff, but it doesn't come close to adequately explore the themes.
But this is meant to get you interested in another book/movie and talk to your friends about the connection with God in pop culture. It's a gift book, make no mistake.
This book was provided for review, at no cost, by Tyndale Publishing.
He wrote a book called Finding God in The Lord of the Rings so it makes sense that he would have another one based on The Hobbit. And that publishers would want to push this book with the movie releasing.
Ware gives us a nice, small hardback book with twenty chapters. But don't let that number scare you, this book is like the God-cliffnotes for anyone interested. You'll get very short chapters that begin with a brief overview of part of the story and then unpacks the God-stuff.
I found some of the points he brought out to be interesting and not the typical ideas you'd assume to find in a book about finding God within a story.
This book may make a nice discussion starter for those who aren't familiar with The Hobbit, but diehard fans might be insulted by this and I imagine they could go even deeper in their discussions. Make no mistake, Ware knows his stuff, but it doesn't come close to adequately explore the themes.
But this is meant to get you interested in another book/movie and talk to your friends about the connection with God in pop culture. It's a gift book, make no mistake.
This book was provided for review, at no cost, by Tyndale Publishing.
December 28, 2012
Jim Ware: Finding God In the Hobbit, Tyndale House Publishers, ISBN 1-4143-0596-7
When I received the opportunity to review this book for Tyndale House Publishers, I thought why not. As one who believes in the Prayer of Jabez - and I call it my prayer - I thought this would be a good way to enlarge my territories and broaden my horizons. Seeing as I have never read The Hobbit or been interested in such writings.
Ware gives a very insightful analysis on a much-loved piece of literature by J.R.R. Tolkien. Though Tolkien has been reported to be a Christian, it is not my belief that he wrote his stories to be anything but, and I just got turned off by the analysis that Ware gave. If I had been even an inkling interested in picking up Tolkien, that interest is gone now.
Literature was meant to be enjoyed and read. Fiction, like Tolkien's, is meant to be a way for book lovers and readers to relax and settle in for an hour or so of thinking of nothing but the book.
Ware's efforts are understood, and appreciated. But even the Lord says in the Bible that not everything has to have a reason or an answer. At least not known by us.
For fans of the Tolkien books, Finding God in the Hobbit by Mr. Ware, might be a good source of supplemental reading.
When I received the opportunity to review this book for Tyndale House Publishers, I thought why not. As one who believes in the Prayer of Jabez - and I call it my prayer - I thought this would be a good way to enlarge my territories and broaden my horizons. Seeing as I have never read The Hobbit or been interested in such writings.
Ware gives a very insightful analysis on a much-loved piece of literature by J.R.R. Tolkien. Though Tolkien has been reported to be a Christian, it is not my belief that he wrote his stories to be anything but, and I just got turned off by the analysis that Ware gave. If I had been even an inkling interested in picking up Tolkien, that interest is gone now.
Literature was meant to be enjoyed and read. Fiction, like Tolkien's, is meant to be a way for book lovers and readers to relax and settle in for an hour or so of thinking of nothing but the book.
Ware's efforts are understood, and appreciated. But even the Lord says in the Bible that not everything has to have a reason or an answer. At least not known by us.
For fans of the Tolkien books, Finding God in the Hobbit by Mr. Ware, might be a good source of supplemental reading.
November 4, 2016
Not especially enlightening. It draws Christian life lessons from Hobbit and quotes Bible verses. Each chapter starts with a lengthy, unnecessary paraphrase bordering on fan fiction. This book was disappointing, just like Finding God in the Lord of the Rings and Finding God in the Land of Narnia.
Notes
Enjoy the treasures of this life, but hold them lightly.
In Tolkien, magic is bad when it uses external plans, devices (machines), and manipulation, and magic is good when it uses powers inherent in the person, or power given to them by their role.
The Wise couldn't ask or compel the Eagles to fly the Ring to Mt. Doom, because they're special agents of Manwe. They act by grace, not coercion.
Contentment is wealth. Bilbo was willing to spend his fortune to buy back his comfortable home and belongings after his adventure.
Quote
Notes
Enjoy the treasures of this life, but hold them lightly.
In Tolkien, magic is bad when it uses external plans, devices (machines), and manipulation, and magic is good when it uses powers inherent in the person, or power given to them by their role.
The Wise couldn't ask or compel the Eagles to fly the Ring to Mt. Doom, because they're special agents of Manwe. They act by grace, not coercion.
Contentment is wealth. Bilbo was willing to spend his fortune to buy back his comfortable home and belongings after his adventure.
Quote
The chief purpose of life, for any of us, is to increase according to our capacity our knowledge of God by all means we have, and to be moved by it to praise and thanks.― J.R.R. Tolkien
October 28, 2015
J. R. R. Tolkien often emphasized that he never intended to create an allegory with his stories. The fact remains that he did not. The fact also remains that Tolkien was in touch with the meta-narrative of our existence through his firm beliefs as a Roman Catholic. This meta-narrative, that of a clear divide between good and evil and redemption for all Creation through the graceful sacrifice of Jesus Christ informs much of what Tolkien writes in The Hobbit and The Lord of The Rings.
Jim Ware is fully aware of this as he ponders many points where Tolkien makes contact with the meta-narrative of fall and redemption within "The Hobbit." In "Finding God in the Hobbit" Jim Ware explores themes of redemption, the purpose of life, the restoration of life, the fallen nature of our world and many other ideas. He does so with a clear love for story and for "The Hobbit." Ware never claims that Tolkien has allegorized any part of "The Hobbit," but clearly points out how the story within "The Hobbit" informs us regarding how we should live as those traveling there and back again.
Jim Ware is fully aware of this as he ponders many points where Tolkien makes contact with the meta-narrative of fall and redemption within "The Hobbit." In "Finding God in the Hobbit" Jim Ware explores themes of redemption, the purpose of life, the restoration of life, the fallen nature of our world and many other ideas. He does so with a clear love for story and for "The Hobbit." Ware never claims that Tolkien has allegorized any part of "The Hobbit," but clearly points out how the story within "The Hobbit" informs us regarding how we should live as those traveling there and back again.
December 17, 2012
I haven’t read The Hobbit since I was in junior/senior high, but I still remember how much I enjoyed it. With the upcoming release of the movie, I will be reading The Hobbit again with renewed interest. The difference this time is that I’ll be reading it with my daughter. It’s not a surprise that the publishers decided to re-release Finding God in the Hobbit to coincide with the release of the new movie as, just like myself, people will have a renewed interest in reading The Hobbit once again.
I didn’t know what to expect from this book as I’ve found that some books of this nature are quite good, while others are quite bad. I was pleased that Jim Ware, the author, made this book feel like his own personal journal about his thoughts on spiritual matters and The Hobbit rather than turning it into a preachy book. continue reading....
I didn’t know what to expect from this book as I’ve found that some books of this nature are quite good, while others are quite bad. I was pleased that Jim Ware, the author, made this book feel like his own personal journal about his thoughts on spiritual matters and The Hobbit rather than turning it into a preachy book. continue reading....
December 19, 2012
I thought Jim Ware did a very good job of weaving chapter by chapter the subtle truths of Tolkien's story with Biblical truths. I found his insight to have a certain depth that was very refreshing. The further along I read in the book, the more I began to respect the author's understanding, not only of Tolkien's writing and storytelling, but of the truths that were expressed so well by the author. Jim Ware has true faith and does a great job of expressing it through his comparisons with Tolkien's adventures of The Hobbit. A very enjoyable and profitable read. I recommend it to all who have enjoyed reading The Hobbit.
August 7, 2017
I've read a previous book by this author, "finding God in Narnia", between the two I think I preferred that one. That doesn't mean this is a bad book, I just feel that this one has more stretches in it.
The book takes different parts of the classic "the hobbit", it shows different areas that show Christian believes. I think some of them make good sense, and I can see where the Hobbit shows it's Christian influence, but at other times I feel like it's missing a mark.
If you like this authors work, or even if you're just a fan of the hobbit or Christian related literature, I think you'll enjoy this book. Despite my mild disappointment in some chapters, it is still good book.
The book takes different parts of the classic "the hobbit", it shows different areas that show Christian believes. I think some of them make good sense, and I can see where the Hobbit shows it's Christian influence, but at other times I feel like it's missing a mark.
If you like this authors work, or even if you're just a fan of the hobbit or Christian related literature, I think you'll enjoy this book. Despite my mild disappointment in some chapters, it is still good book.
July 23, 2015
The book is very well written and I think that Ware had some great points that he made, however I wish that he had gone more in depth with the Finding God in the Hobbit aspect. It seemed more like a recounting of parts of the story to refresh you on what is going on, then a brief section talking about it, and then a very small point about how it portrayed something about God.
I loved the points that he made, I just wish that there had been some more depth to that aspect of the story.
I loved the points that he made, I just wish that there had been some more depth to that aspect of the story.
December 13, 2013
This book was an easy read, more like a long essay except I wish he used more sources, or had some interviews or proof of further research, much of his book seems to be the authors own thought and exploration searching for God. Which is fine but I guess I was expecting something more... I guess I'd thought it would go deeper, it's a very good surface level book.
November 26, 2016
This was at times a bit of a stretch. Do not approach this with the attitude one would have with the attitude one would take with, say, a CS Lewis work. Instead the author reads portions of the Hobbit then finds ways to relate it to parts of the old or New Testaments. May be a good work for those catholic school teachers who also teach literature.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews