The Hobbit is a fantasy novel by J.R.R. Tolkien. It is set in Middle-earth and follows the journey of Bilbo Baggins, a hobbit who is recruited by the wizard Gandalf to join a group of dwarves on a quest to reclaim their homeland from the dragon Smaug. The book is a prequel to The Lord of the Rings and is known for its charming storytelling and memorable characters.