Celebrate Hobbit Day With These 7 Fantastic Hobbit-Themed Books
Let us be realistic: in September, most people are thinking about pumpkin spice lattes, but not Hobbit Day. But for those of us who know better, September 22nd means something far more significant: it’s Hobbit Day, and frankly, it is high time the world caught on to why this matters.
Hobbit Day isn’t just some random celebration dreamed up by zealous Tolkien fans (though they are pretty enthusiastic). September 22nd marks the shared birthday of both Bilbo and Frodo Baggins.
What Makes Hobbit Day Special?
Here’s the thing about hobbits that I think we all secretly envy: they’ve got their priorities straight. While the rest of us are stressed about deadlines and traffic jams, hobbits are focused on the important things: second breakfast, elevenses, afternoon tea, dinner, and supper. They understand that life is too short not to slow down and savor the good things in life.
But it goes deeper than just their impressive meal schedule. Hobbits represent something we’ve lost in our fast-paced world: the art of contentment. They’re not trying to conquer kingdoms or accumulate wealth. They are perfectly happy tending their gardens, sharing stories, and living in cozy homes.
Why We Need More Hobbit Energy
The beauty of Hobbit Day lies in its permission to slow down. When was the last time you really savored a meal without scrolling through your phone? Or spent an entire afternoon reading without feeling guilty about productivity? Hobbits would be horrified by our hustle culture.
If you’re wondering how to properly honor this day, let me paint you a picture of what a real celebration looks like. First, abandon any pretense of eating just three meals. Today, you are eating like a hobbit, which means you’re eating often and well. Start with a proper first breakfast, followed by a second breakfast around 10 AM.
Reading is non-negotiable. Whether you’re revisiting The Hobbit or discovering new books that capture that same cozy adventure spirit, today is about celebrating stories. And please, read with a proper beverage in hand—tea, coffee, or perhaps a cold mug of apple cider.
Hobbit-Themed Books:
- Redwall (Brian Jacques) – this collection of stories centers on woodland creatures who inhabit Mossflower Wood and Redwall Abbey. The animals are anthropomorphic, i.e., carrying swords, wearing Medieval garb, talking, etc., and interacting with one another according to their social groups and classes. Although written primarily for children, these stories are for grown-ups, too! The first book is the best place to start and to share with your family on Hobbit Day.
- All Creatures Great and Small (James Herriot) – Escape into the vales and hills of Yorkshire, England, with the stalwart veterinarian James Herriot as he cares for the various animals in the village. Herriot imparts his perspective on rural English life just after the Second World War, featuring interesting characters among the townsfolk. These tales are heart-warming and perfect for a cozy evening’s read.
- The Silmarillion (J.R.R. Tolkien) – This book delves into the origins of Middle-earth and the development of the four races: Elves, Men, Dwarves, and Orcs. Heroes, villains, and fair maidens abound in this stunning work. Tolkien also explains the rise of the Dark Lord and his desire to rule over Middle-earth and corrupt all that is good. This book will carry you beyond Hobbit Day, for sure! This story is best for teens and young adults in your household.
- The Chronicles of Narnia (C.S. Lewis) – Lewis was a friend and fellow scholar with Tolkien, as they both taught at Oxford University. Lewis’ fantasy novels center around the world called Narnia and the great lion called Aslan. Four siblings – Peter, Susan, Edmund, and Lucy – find a wardrobe in an old manor house, ushering them into Narnia under the tyranny of the White Witch. The stories follow the Pevensie siblings and their adventures. These are dear classics and well worth the read at any age!Â
- The Wind in the Willows – (Kenneth Grahame) Perhaps one of the greatest stories ever written, Grahame’s novel deals with the world of the Riverbank and the charming creatures who inhabit the fanciful world. Set in the English countryside (early 1900s), Ratty and his best friend, the Mole, give off more than their fair share of Shire vibes! From the dangers of the Wildwood to the exploits of the colorful Mr. Toad, The Wind in the Willows captures English life just before the First World War. It is a beautiful story. It can change one’s life if one is not careful.
- The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes (Sir Arthur Conan Doyle) – This may be a surprising addition to our Hobbit Day list, but the rich detail and English perspective make these mystery stories a must-read. Both Holmes and Frodo Baggins want justice and order in their world. Holmes, the enigmatic detective, and Frodo, the noble hobbit, must solve large problems threatening their societies. Separated by time and fictional settings, these characters share much in common and make a delightful read.
The Literary Legacy Lives On
 We could all use a little more hobbit in our lives. Because in a world that’s constantly demanding more—more productivity, more ambition, more everything—hobbits remind us that sometimes enough is plenty, and happiness might just be hiding in the simple moments we are too busy to notice.
