I think the overall message in The Hobbit was the transformation from underdog to hero. When we meet the main character, Bilbo Baggins, he is a comfortable little hobbit. The image of Bilbo in his home, eating six times a day and doing whatever he pleases, makes the reader think of a little child with free reign of his life. What kid doesn’t want to do what he pleases, and then go on an adventure with a wizard? Every child I know would grab on and never let go.
The bonus quote from our quiz is one of the things that jumped out at me when I was trying to do my final analysis of The Hobbit. On page 346, when Thorin says: “Some courage and some wisdom, blended in measure. If more of us valued food and cheer and song above hoarded gold, it would be a merrier world.” Everyone wants to be seen as something valuable by their elders. When Thorin acknowledges that Bilbo was never overtaken by the hunt for gold as the dwarves were, he tells Bilbo that he was the best man of the entire group. Power and riches were not the reason Bilbo joined Thorin and Co. on their journey. He was just there for the adventure, and to uncover his Tookish side.
Although I personally did not enjoy the book, I could see young boys loving it. The book definitely appeals to the side of them that longs for an adventure of their own. Bilbo Baggins is someone they can relate to. His size, his eating habits and the way he thinks all reflect the personality of a ten year old boy. This book is a perfect outlet for their adventurous minds, without getting them into too much trouble in the backyard.
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