Tolkein, J. R. R. The Hobbit or There and Back Again. Boston: Houghton Mifflin, 1937.
In reviewing this book, I won't say much since it is being turned into a two-part film and part one is set to release next year. I will just say this--I loved it. It is a much easier and quicker read than The Lord of the Rings, and I found the story to be delightful. The overall story is far more whimsical than the grim undertones of the story of Frodo. I was actually surprised that they encounter with Gollum happens so early in the book. I assumed that was part of the culmination of the story, and the Ring is far less sinister in this story. The back story of the Ring is not hinted at all, which is kind of surprising if you read The Lord of the Rings first.
Overall, absolutely fantastic! I don't think I could recommend it any more highly.
Next book up: The Pastor's Start-Up Manual: Beginning a New Pastorate, Robert H. Ramey, Jr.
