Ages 10+1-min guideFantasyAdventureClassic
The Hobbit
by J.R.R. Tolkien
Good fitA great fit for most kids 10 and up, and a wonderful read-aloud from 8. A classic adventure with goblins, giant spiders and a dragon. The final battle and a few deaths make it better for slightly older kids.
Create a free family account to see a verdict for each of your kids.
What it’s about
Bilbo Baggins, a comfortable hobbit, is swept into a quest with the wizard Gandalf and thirteen dwarves to win back their treasure from the dragon Smaug. Along the way he finds a magic ring and his own courage.
The ending
What might come up
ViolenceSomeBattles with goblins, wolves and a final war.
Death and lossSomeThorin and two young dwarves die in the last battle.
Scary momentsSomeGiant spiders, Gollum in the dark and the dragon.
Smoking and drinkingA littleCharacters smoke pipes and drink. Two elves drink until they fall asleep.
LanguageA littleA couple of very mild words, like 'curse it'.
RomanceNone
Why kids like it
Riddles in the dark, a magic ring and a talking dragon.
Free printable quiz
- 1Who is the wizard?
- 2What does Bilbo find in the goblin caves?
- 3Who kills Smaug?
- 4What is Bilbo’s home called?
Read it, then watch it
Read the book first, then watch it together and talk about what changed.
