The Hobbit Facsimile Gift Edition [Lenticular cover]

The Hobbit Facsimile Gift Edition [Lenticular cover] by J. R. R. Tolkien is a truly extraordinary piece for any literary collection. Originally published on 21 September 1937, the story introduces the reader to Bilbo Baggins, a comfort-loving hobbit who embarks on a thrilling quest far beyond his quaint shire. Watch as Bilbo is whisked away by the enigmatic wizard Gandalf and thirteen dwarves led by their daring leader, Thorin Oakenshield. Their mission takes them across treacherous landscapes and into mysterious forests, ultimately culminating in their confrontation with the fearsome dragon, Smaug, who hoards a treasure that the dwarves seek to reclaim. Tolkien’s masterful narration and intricate world-building make this tale an enduring classic.

This sumptuous gift set includes an authentic replica of the very rare first edition of The Hobbit, the only edition where one can now read the original version of the story before Tolkien re-edited it in 1951. With a limited print run of just 1,500 copies, the first edition was adorned with a beautiful cover design, nearly a dozen black and white illustrations, and two striking black and red maps, all crafted by Tolkien himself. The book's immediate popularity led to its rapid reprinting, marking the beginning of a legendary journey for both the author and his readers.

The first edition’s rarity has driven its price to extraordinary heights, well beyond the reach of most enthusiasts. Furthermore, the changes made to chapter 5 in 1947—when Tolkien revised the text to better align it with the unfolding narrative of its sequel, The Lord of the Rings—make reading the book in its original form a rare experience.

This meticulously crafted commemorative gift set makes that elusive experience available to readers of all ages. It includes the first edition text, preserved in its untouched glory for modern audiences to appreciate as it was first envisioned. Also included is an exclusive CD of archival recordings featuring Tolkien himself reading from The Hobbit, providing an invaluable auditory glimpse into the author's imaginative spirit.

The set is further enriched with a special copy of Thror’s map, which reveals the secret moon-runes when held to light, capturing another layer of Tolkien’s mythical craftsmanship. Accompanying these treasures is a booklet that delves into the history of The Hobbit, complete with related writings by Tolkien, offering deeper insights into this groundbreaking work.

The Hobbit Facsimile Gift Edition [Lenticular cover] is not just a book; it’s a portal to Middle-earth, opening up a timeless adventure and a piece of literary history for both fans and new readers to cherish.