The Hobbit: A Graphic Novel: A Graphic Novel Adaptation of the Classic Fantasy Novel (Hobbit Fantasy Classic)

I purchased this illustrated edition of The Hobbit, primarily to be a gift to my adult children to read to their children. I have read The Hobbit numerous times over the past 50 years or so, along with the Lord of the Rings, The Silmarillion, The Letters of J.R.R. Tolkien, and other works by J.R.R. Tolkien. Some have expressed dissatisfaction with this adaptation, whether because some parts were left out or glossed over, or the illustrations weren't what they expected, or the illustrations had too much dialog covering them. J.R.R. Tolkien himself commented on the reception his books received while he was still alive. He had received letters asking for more information about Hobbits and Middle-earth, and others saying that there was too much. I believe that he understood that no book or story would please everyone on every point, and that one must do the best they can on what they do, and not worry about pleasing everyone. Clearly, this edition does not please everyone, but I don't believe that it was intended to. There are two releases of the illustrated edition, with two different covers. The copies that I purchased were used, and shipped from private bookstores through Amazon, but not from Amazon. Both releases have the same story illustrations in them, but the illustrations before and after the story are different, Also, the covers were illustrated by two different artists, but the story was illustrated by a third artist. This edition stays true to the tale in J.R.R. Tolkien's, The Hobbit. Unlike Peter Jackson's movies, which change the storyline in significant ways, this adaptation does not change any of the storyline, though with only 134 pages, it does not go into great depth. It does address the major points of the story, and illustrates them in clear, well drawn illustrations. I have read The Hobbit onto a set of CD's that my older grandchildren listened to when they were little and again as their younger siblings listened to them. I know that they will enjoy this illustrated edition, and the parents or older siblings will read the story to the little ones, discuss the pictures and help the little one's understand the story. Graphic adaptations to stories don't appeal to everyone, particularly those purists who love the original works and don't want them changed. I consider myself a Tolkien purist, but can appreciate the quality of the illustrations and the accuracy of this adaptation. I would recommend this illustrated edition to those who want to share The Hobbit with children they hold dear, or for the child in each of us who wants to rediscover the story in a new way.

Great art work and story. It’s not the company’s fault that I’m farsighted and found the print challenging to read sometimes. Well put together book.

*The Hobbit: A Graphic Novel* is an absolute treasure for both longtime Tolkien fans and newcomers stepping into Middle-earth for the first time. This adaptation strikes that rare balance between honoring the timeless charm of Tolkien’s original prose and presenting the story in a visually engaging, easy-to-follow format. The artwork is vibrant and expressive, capturing everything from Bilbo’s quiet, reluctant courage to the sweeping majesty of the dwarves’ journey. Key scenes—like the troll encounter, Gollum’s riddles, and Smaug’s looming presence—are brought to life with energy and care. The illustrations never overshadow the story; instead, they complement it beautifully, helping important moments land with clarity and emotional impact. What impressed me most is how accessible the graphic novel format makes this classic. Younger readers, visual learners, or anyone intimidated by high-fantasy prose will find this version inviting and enjoyable. Yet it never feels “simplified” in a way that loses Tolkien’s heart—just streamlined in a respectful, thoughtful way. Whether you’re a Tolkien enthusiast expanding your collection, a parent introducing a child to Middle-earth, or simply someone who loves well-crafted graphic storytelling, this adaptation is absolutely worth adding to your shelf. A delightful journey there and back again!

[...]There are enough adjatives already said on the book (maybe I'll write a full review of it later) but for now lets talk about the comic (or as it is refered to the paperback version, click the link below, you'll like what you see.) It's a collection of three part comic book adaption of The Hobbit put out in three issues back in 1989. I considered it the best comic book adaption of anything I ever read and the passing of a decade, and a new cover for the trade paperback has done nothing to change my opinion. It should be said up front that 134 pages are just not enough to give the entire book its due. If you want the actual novel then read it. This is a comic book, it is a GREAT comic book and on my list of best ever, but it is a comic book. That doesn't mean avoid this this is a great adaption. The artwork is supurb, colorful, and "takes" you into the story quickly. David Wenzel does his job well. When I think of the characters in my mind. The faces I see are these drawings. And I've seen every cartoon adaption and the movie. He also did some very nice prints from this book. Charles Dixon adapts the story well. This was version I read to my children when they were six and eight and it was kept by my youngest son near his bed for easy access over the last two years. This will definately get your brood especially the younger members of it into the story and into reading as a consequence. A great addition to any person's collection of Hobbit or Tolklen stuff. Buy it.

Super cool and great way to introduce reluctant readers

My 5 yo LOVED reading this version! Big sister was doing a book club of the illustrated version (green cover, highly recommend) and my youngest didn't have the stamina to read /listen to that much of the book fast enough to keep up, so we ordered the graphic novel instead and it was perfect. She was able to find the pictures in her book that matched what they were talking about in book club and show everyone pictures of what they had read. Some of the boys in the book club wished they had picked the graphic novel instead of the whole thing. It was an awesome companion and scaffold for a younger reader wanting to participate in big discussions. She especially loved the dragon scenes. It is missing a lot of parts from the book though-she was frustrated sometimes because they would talk about parts in their book that weren't in hers. We went back after book club had finished and read the whole version at our own pace-this book gave her a solid foundation to build her own imagination out from.

This is a great gift for someone who appreciates the Hobbit series!

Great illustrations, awesome story, it's the Hobbit! Not much more to say, if you are on the fence, get it.