On the Shelf

This week I have been reading The Hobbit in anticipation of the release of the movie interpretation of the story on December 14. The story so far been an exciting chain of episodic action that dynamically leads from one intense situation to another. Along the journey, Bilbo met a very exciting character named Gollum. Tolkin  vividly describes Gollum as both a disgusting creature not worthy to live, and also as a victim of circumstance who does not deserve the horrors he has faced. Tolkin brings the reader into the mind of Bilbo and shows his development from a timid villager of the Shire, into a brave adventurer who stumbles upon a curious ring. Bilbo is reluctant to reveal the ring of power to his companions because he does not fully understand its power, and he is right to be cautious. As the tale continues, their brotherhood strengthens and the story maintains its focus around the various aspects of the fantasy genre, inserting mythical beasts and divine-like intervention. Overall, The Hobbit has so far been able to fulfill the big check that has been written for it as the prelude to the Lord of the Rings trilogy.