Exploring J. R. R. Tolkien's the Hobbit

Sharing Corey Olsen s personal view of The Hobbit is like having a long conversation with someone who shares the love of a favorite book and is excited to talk about it. His exploration of the journey of Bilbo Baggins will encourage readers to think more deeply about Tolkien s classic tale. Wayne G. Hammond and Christina Scull, authors of The Art of The Hobbit by J.R.R. Tolkien

Most readers race through The Hobbit at breakneck speed, drawn onward by the exciting plot. Professor Olsen encourages us to slow down and take the scenic route, savoring each chapter. Through close, careful explication, he points out significant details and draws attention to hidden themes; he s particularly good at pointing out how Tolkien uses poems as characterization. Recommended to hobbit-fanciers everywhere. John D. Rateliff, author of The History of the Hobbit

Exploring J.R.R. Tolkien s The Hobbit moves step by step through the text, explaining references, pointing out themes and clearly and carefully showing how Tolkien s book although one of the most beloved children s book of the past century isn t just for kids. Neither is Olsen s book, which will be as useful to adult readers as it is to students. Michael Drout, editor of J.R.R. Tolkien s Beowulf and the Critics and the J.R.R. Tolkien Encyclopedia

I cannot imagine a more patient, astute, and well-informed guide to the world of The Hobbit than Corey Olson. His readers are lucky. Patrick Curry, author of Defending Middle-Earth