The Hobbit is a fantasy novel written by J.R.R. Tolkien. It serves as a prequel to The Lord of the Rings and follows the adventures 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. With its charming storytelling and memorable characters, The Hobbit has become a beloved classic in its own right.