J.R.R. Tolkien's The Hobbit

by Patricia Gray (Dramatization)

Comedy. By Patricia Gray. Based on the classic by J.R.R. Tolkien.

Cast: approximately 26. Variable number of hobbits and other inhabitants of Middle Earth. It's unusual for a modern work to become a classic so quickly, but Tolkien's "ring" stories, which began with The Hobbit, clearly are in this very special category. They stir the imagination and intellect of everyone they touch. Bilbo, one of the most conservative of all Hobbits, is asked to leave his large, roomy and very dry home in the ground in order to set off as chief robber in an attempt to recover an important treasure. It's the last thing that any sensitive Hobbit would want to do, but great benefit eventually results—not only for Bilbo but for all of the Hobbits who inhabit Middle Earth—and the hearts of those children and adults who continue to enjoy this kind of magic. Multiple simple sets. Approximate running time: 120 minutes.

Genres: Fantasy, Plays, Fiction, Young Adult, Theatre

87 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1968

Reviews

[Elizabeth · Rating 4 out of 5]

This dramatization of Tolkien’s The Hobbit is a must-read for any fan of the novel. It is quite different in tone, which is only natural, but this difference is part of what makes this version so enjoyable. I relish the opportunity to experience someone else’s interpretation of a beloved novel, and in this case, I was pleasantly surprised by what was cut out and what was left in. I was impressed with the character development in such a truncated plot, not just Bilbo, but the Dwarves too. Parts were very silly, and parts were unexpectedly moving.

[Juliette · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the two-act play script, adapted by Patricia Gray. This is a great version of the book and stays true to Tolkien's messages of personal growth and heroism. Bilbo, Gandalf, the dwarves, the trolls, the goblins, the elves and even Smaug are represented in vivid versions of their literary selves. The stage directions are sensible and clear. Long live Bilbo!

[Jojo · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Hobbit

The Hobbit is an action packed story of Bilbo Baggins' adventure in stealing Smaug-the-magnificent's grand hoard of dragon gold.A band of dwarves by the names of Thorin, Kili, Fili, Bombur, Bofur, Bifur, Balin, Dwalin, Oin, Gloin, Ori, Nori, Dori and the wizard Gandalf embark on the tough journey. Encountering Difficulties including fantasy creatures, wolves, giant insects and yet more edge-of-the-seat action.The Hobbit also demonstrates how adventures can change many elements of one's personality.

I personally enjoyed this book lots and recommend it to keen readers with an adventurous mind and enough patience to withstand a boring push off.

[Shayma · Rating 4 out of 5]

ok woke up from my sleep to finally finish this torcheris book lol just kidding it was good i have to admit it was just not my mood thats why i took so long trying to finish it but im so glad i did loved the ending so much thogh the ending was one of the funnest parts but overall i loved the ridels and the optimis in theme.

[Madeline · Rating 2 out of 5]

It's not my type of book, but it was pretty good for a freshman English book. I had to read 3 books before 9th grade, and 2 of them were ok, counting this one, and 1 of them, 1984, was HORRIBLE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[Paul · Rating 1 out of 5]

We performed this play in High School. Being a huge Tolkien fan by then I found it dreadful. Huge changes in characters, bad dialogue, and the less mention of having Thorin kill Smaug and skipping over the whole Battle of the Five Armies the better.

For completists only.

[Rebecca · Rating 3 out of 5]

Although I really enjoyed being a part of this production, it never felt as complete as the books and movies did. However, I will always be willing to see a production of it, if the opportunity ever came up again.

[Don]

Rereading it. Always a delight.

[Audrey]

Great book! I didn't realize that I did not have this on my shelves already! I read it in like 2nd grade w/ my dad.

[Linda · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was as good the tenth time as it was the first! How I love Bilbo!