Comfort Reads Series: The Hobbit - From a Homebody Student to Her Own Adventure
Continuing Indigo’s new Comfort Read Series, I want to share my personal connection with J.R.R. Tolkien’s beloved fantasy, The Hobbit. This book has metaphorically guided me through life, offering both comfort and inspiration.
The Story of Bilbo Baggins and His Quest
The tale centers on Bilbo Baggins, a small, comfort-loving hobbit created by Tolkien. Bilbo meets a group of displaced dwarves, and with encouragement from the wizard Gandalf, he joins their quest to reclaim their ancestral home, Erebor, from the greedy dragon Smaug. Along the way, they face elves, trolls, magical swords, and a mysterious ring. After completing the journey, Bilbo returns home and writes about his adventure.
Why The Hobbit Resonated with Me
As an introverted child fascinated by magical stories, I felt a strong bond with Bilbo. He wasn’t a warrior or born into nobility, yet Tolkien illustrates how anyone can be courageous and make a meaningful impact. This helped me embrace my own quiet nature.
“Like Bilbo, my ideal evening would be curled up at home with good food and a book, yet having my personality represented within the literature I enjoyed made a younger me feel seen and inspired to dare to dream.”
Reading about a character who reflects my temperament encouraged me to believe in the value of my own adventures, no matter how different they might be from traditional heroism.
Author’s Summary
The Hobbit offers comfort and courage through a relatable protagonist, showing that quiet bravery and personal growth are powerful and inspiring.