Before reading this book, I was mainly familiar with Tolkien’s story through the Lord of the Rings films. Because of this, I was surprised to read in The Hobbit that Bilbo finds the magical ring to be much more of a blessing than a curse. We never really see the ring’s power wearing him down mentally or physically; in fact, throughout the story he grows increasingly level-headed and courageous. The potential for negative effects is hinted at, obviously, in the character of Gollum; however,... (show more)

Before reading this book, I was mainly familiar with Tolkien’s story through the Lord of the Rings films. Because of this, I was surprised to read in The Hobbit that Bilbo finds the magical ring to be much more of a blessing than a curse. We never really see the ring’s power wearing him down mentally or physically; in fact, throughout the story he grows increasingly level-headed and courageous. The potential for negative effects is hinted at, obviously, in the character of Gollum; however, we do not see this sort of material lust develop in Bilbo—who carries the ring—but in Thorin, who becomes increasingly ruled by a desire to protect the treasure (you could almost imagine him calling it “precious”). The story shows how challenges and trials can make us better people; it reminds us of the importance of true friends and suggests that, no matter what we may gain through materials or notoriety, nothing is quite as satisfying as returning home after a long absence. (show less)