What do you think?
Rate this book
The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey - Annual 2013
Published in advance of the amazing new movie by Peter Jackson, this is the OFFICIAL Hobbit Annual, packed with stills, characters and information from the movie sensation.
Join Bilbo Baggins on his unexpected journey across the wilds of Middle-earth with Gandalf the Wizard and a company of thirteen Dwarves!
This Annual is the ideal gift for all Hobbit and movie fans. Full of character profiles, Hobbit activities and information, this is the perfect companion to the blockbuster movie.
Join Bilbo Baggins on his unexpected journey across the wilds of Middle-earth with Gandalf the Wizard and a company of thirteen Dwarves!
This Annual is the ideal gift for all Hobbit and movie fans. Full of character profiles, Hobbit activities and information, this is the perfect companion to the blockbuster movie.
64 pages, Hardcover
First published January 1, 2012
73 people are currently reading
2092 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 63 reviews
January 9, 2024
I'll never not love this book. It's been reviewed by much more articulate people than me so I'll let the other reviews do it justice. It's better than the movies though.
November 10, 2012
I said to myself that after being disappointed with the films of LotR I wouldn't get caught up in the Hobbit hype machine. But I did, and so here is the first of all the tie-in books that I am obviously buying.
I can see how this would be quite a fun book for kids, but it also gives an insight in to the plot of the film and how Peter, Fran, and Phil have worked to create a character and identity for all of the 13 dwarves. This book was, however, created before the decision to change the planned 2 films into 3 and came out before there was time to change any of the content so the plot and characters cover some details that we now actually won't get until the 2nd film (The Desolation of Smaug). So that's actually a fun bonus.
The book has 9 pages of character profiles: a double page for Bilbo, Gandalf, and Thorin. Single pages for Elrond, Gollum, and Thranduil. The other 12 dwarves get 6 pages between them (2 to a page). There's also a nice map highlighting some of the places on their journey. The rest is 35 pages of activities, puzzles, games, and 'posters' (full page pictures) - including Bilbo and Gollum's riddles, the moon runes + key for you to decipher, and an answers page at the very back. The puzzles vary in degree of difficultly so would be fun for a range of ages, but what was interesting for me is that a lot of the quizzes also provide additional clues to characterisations or plot.
There are plenty of pictures throughout, some that hadn't been seen on the internet before hand, but they're mostly all just character shots - only a few show actual scenes from the film and they're nearly all shots that've been used in the trailer. A lot of the art work is also very heavily photoshopped (to make 'pretty'), a bit too much for my liking at times. Like, they've made it pretty, but then got a bit carried away and gone too far.
The most interesting parts, for me, were reading part of Bilbo's diary that has been made up for the film (perhaps we'll see it on screen?), it's very thoughtfully made, and Hobbit-y feeling; and reading the 12 dwarf profiles to see how they'd taken small details from the books and developed them in to full characters, and what character traits they'd given the ones who have no small details in the book. Interesting.
I can see how this would be quite a fun book for kids, but it also gives an insight in to the plot of the film and how Peter, Fran, and Phil have worked to create a character and identity for all of the 13 dwarves. This book was, however, created before the decision to change the planned 2 films into 3 and came out before there was time to change any of the content so the plot and characters cover some details that we now actually won't get until the 2nd film (The Desolation of Smaug). So that's actually a fun bonus.
The book has 9 pages of character profiles: a double page for Bilbo, Gandalf, and Thorin. Single pages for Elrond, Gollum, and Thranduil. The other 12 dwarves get 6 pages between them (2 to a page). There's also a nice map highlighting some of the places on their journey. The rest is 35 pages of activities, puzzles, games, and 'posters' (full page pictures) - including Bilbo and Gollum's riddles, the moon runes + key for you to decipher, and an answers page at the very back. The puzzles vary in degree of difficultly so would be fun for a range of ages, but what was interesting for me is that a lot of the quizzes also provide additional clues to characterisations or plot.
There are plenty of pictures throughout, some that hadn't been seen on the internet before hand, but they're mostly all just character shots - only a few show actual scenes from the film and they're nearly all shots that've been used in the trailer. A lot of the art work is also very heavily photoshopped (to make 'pretty'), a bit too much for my liking at times. Like, they've made it pretty, but then got a bit carried away and gone too far.
The most interesting parts, for me, were reading part of Bilbo's diary that has been made up for the film (perhaps we'll see it on screen?), it's very thoughtfully made, and Hobbit-y feeling; and reading the 12 dwarf profiles to see how they'd taken small details from the books and developed them in to full characters, and what character traits they'd given the ones who have no small details in the book. Interesting.
Read
June 3, 2017This is an awesome book and I recommend reading it before the lord of the ring series
August 13, 2025
The Hobbit is an awesome adventure from start to finish. It follows Bilbo Baggins, a quiet hobbit who gets pulled into a wild journey with a group of dwarves to reclaim their treasure from a dragon. It's a simple premise but delivers so much more. The story is full of magical creatures, fun twists, and unforgettable moments. Bilbo's character arc is satisfying to watch. Tolkien’s world-building is amazing—you really feel like you're in Middle-earth. It’s the perfect mix of action, humour, and heart. Whether you're a kid or an adult, this is a must-read fantasy classic.
April 3, 2013
Providing hours of fun, this is a must-have for any fan of the new Hobbit film: an unexpected journey!
This annual was an unexpected delight which is full of stunning full-color photographs that capture the wonders of Peter Jackson’s new epic film. Full of interesting activities that will keep children (and older children alike!) busy for hours; I would highly recommend this book to add to your collection of Hobbit memorabilia. Join Bilbo Baggins on his unexpected journey across Middle-Earth with Gandalf the Wizard and a company of thirteen Dwarves, all from the brilliant new movie which is simply spectacular.
Included within this 61 page hardback volume are some exciting treats, such as; your own company contract, full-color map of the company’s journey across Middle-Earth (from Mirkwood to the Misty Mountains and Rivendell), cut-out bookmarks and character profiles. What also makes this annual special is that alongside the frivolities is the detailed information included about each character and how the film is connected to JRR Tolkien’s novel “The Hobbit” – which is a treat for those who want in-depth material on the story that was put on the big screen.
Fun activities include:
Puzzles, wordsearch, drawing
And my favorite…
Riddles in the dark!
I am so pleased to add ‘the Hobbit: 2013 annual’ to my collection, as a fan of both the book and the incredible first film. I however do feel that at £7.99 (UK pricing) it is certainly over priced and so if you can purchase this second-hand, then I would highly recommend that you do so for it would make an ideal, inspired gift or present for any Hobbit lover. Due to the price I have rated this accordingly, for I purchased my own copy a lot cheaper online secondhand.
This annual was an unexpected delight which is full of stunning full-color photographs that capture the wonders of Peter Jackson’s new epic film. Full of interesting activities that will keep children (and older children alike!) busy for hours; I would highly recommend this book to add to your collection of Hobbit memorabilia. Join Bilbo Baggins on his unexpected journey across Middle-Earth with Gandalf the Wizard and a company of thirteen Dwarves, all from the brilliant new movie which is simply spectacular.
Included within this 61 page hardback volume are some exciting treats, such as; your own company contract, full-color map of the company’s journey across Middle-Earth (from Mirkwood to the Misty Mountains and Rivendell), cut-out bookmarks and character profiles. What also makes this annual special is that alongside the frivolities is the detailed information included about each character and how the film is connected to JRR Tolkien’s novel “The Hobbit” – which is a treat for those who want in-depth material on the story that was put on the big screen.
Fun activities include:
Puzzles, wordsearch, drawing
And my favorite…
Riddles in the dark!
I am so pleased to add ‘the Hobbit: 2013 annual’ to my collection, as a fan of both the book and the incredible first film. I however do feel that at £7.99 (UK pricing) it is certainly over priced and so if you can purchase this second-hand, then I would highly recommend that you do so for it would make an ideal, inspired gift or present for any Hobbit lover. Due to the price I have rated this accordingly, for I purchased my own copy a lot cheaper online secondhand.
January 9, 2023
It has a Hobbit 👍
May 28, 2024
J.R.R. Tolkien's "The Hobbit" is a timeless fantasy classic that has captivated readers for generations. The novel, first published in 1937, follows the journey of Bilbo Baggins, a hobbit from the Shire, who is thrust into an epic adventure filled with dwarves, dragons, and an assortment of mythical creatures. Tolkien's masterful storytelling is evident in his detailed world-building and the depth of his characters. The narrative balances lighthearted moments with darker, more intense scenes, making it appealing to both younger readers and adults. The themes of bravery, friendship, and the quest for identity resonate throughout the story, providing a profound underlying message beneath the adventure.
August 13, 2019
61 pages filled with lots of activities children and young at heart would definitely enjoy, more so for LotR fans.
The first thing that will see and appreciate will be a spread of a map of Middle Earth as Bilbo Baggins will be the first charcter that you will meet as you read along.
Your first activity would be the Pantry Puzzle, a spot the difference for 8 things you have to find. Page 12-13 is another map of Middle Earth with description boxes for major locations in the book and the film. Next to follow would be Gandalf's character profile and the dwarves who came along Bilbo's unexpected journey across the vast terrain and expanse of Middle Earth.
The first thing that will see and appreciate will be a spread of a map of Middle Earth as Bilbo Baggins will be the first charcter that you will meet as you read along.
Your first activity would be the Pantry Puzzle, a spot the difference for 8 things you have to find. Page 12-13 is another map of Middle Earth with description boxes for major locations in the book and the film. Next to follow would be Gandalf's character profile and the dwarves who came along Bilbo's unexpected journey across the vast terrain and expanse of Middle Earth.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 9, 2025
Having read the first, second, and third installments of The Hobbit film guides, I found The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey - Annual 2013 to be a wonderful addition to the collection. This official annual is packed with rich details, character profiles, and stunning stills from the movie that bring Bilbo’s journey vividly to life.
It’s an engaging companion full of fun activities and behind-the-scenes insights that both longtime fans and newcomers will enjoy. The Annual perfectly captures the spirit of adventure and camaraderie that makes the story so memorable. Whether you’re a fan of Tolkien’s world or the films, this book is a fantastic keepsake.
It’s an engaging companion full of fun activities and behind-the-scenes insights that both longtime fans and newcomers will enjoy. The Annual perfectly captures the spirit of adventure and camaraderie that makes the story so memorable. Whether you’re a fan of Tolkien’s world or the films, this book is a fantastic keepsake.
September 13, 2023
I have had this book for a while. I've often flipped through it, but today I sat down and read it/looked at it page by page. In the forward Martin mentions being nervous about Fantasy Flight giving a face to all of his characters. This book was published before the TV show, of course, and while that is true I now have so many of these characters firmly in my head that some of the art was unsatisfactory for that reason. Unfair perhaps, but that is how it goes.
June 12, 2024
J.R.R. Tolkien's "The Hobbit" is a beloved adventure story about Bilbo Baggins, a hobbit who loves comfort but gets drawn into an exciting quest. He joins a group of dwarves and the wizard Gandalf to reclaim a lost kingdom from the dragon Smaug. Along the way, Bilbo faces trolls, goblins, and other dangers, discovering his own bravery. The book's themes of friendship and courage, vivid descriptions, and memorable characters make it a delightful read.
May 19, 2024
The elaborate description of the setting, characters and plot was amazing. However, I found that the plot dragged a bit, and the length of the book was improportionate to everyhthing that happened in the book. It could have been shorter, but was still enjoyable because of the fantasy realm it was set in.
January 19, 2025
You just can't get over how fascinating this book is. Starting a series which influenced generations of readers and the way we see fantasy today. Not only are the different stages of the adventure enjoyable, but also so different from eachother that you are always wondering what the next adventure will be.
September 19, 2018
I love how Gandalf finds Bilbo and takes him on a trip to Defeat the orcs in a deadly war.
April 19, 2019
Totally loved it.
June 26, 2019
molto bello e mi ha subito convinto vi consiglio un casino
di leggerlo
di leggerlo
Read
September 25, 2019good book
October 25, 2019
amazing adventure, truly tolkien's masterpiece
Want to read
December 6, 2019It
January 17, 2020
การเดินทางไปพร้อมกับโชคชะตา ทำให้สีสันในชีวิตของนายแบกกิ้นมีมากมาย ใครจะรู้ว่าการเดินทางจะเริ่มขึ้นเมื่อใด
February 17, 2021
Pretty chill fairytail, but I don't think I would read it again.
July 30, 2021
just i can say wow.i really love that.i hope you love that too
Read
October 11, 2022Very good book, I love the way it makes you feel like you are in the story for yourself.
February 25, 2023
Meraviglioso
September 24, 2023
Better than movie
February 2, 2024
It was kinda boring.
June 1, 2024
Un bellissimo libro che consiglio a tutti di leggere almeno una volta.
January 3, 2025
Its the hobbit, if you've read it you know its fire. Read it over the Spring of 2023. Its cozy and one of my favorites. My brother reads it every read.
April 2, 2025
Classic
Displaying 1 - 30 of 63 reviews