My most recently read book is called Infidel by Ayaan Hirsi Ali.
My favourite book from childhood is The Hobbit or There and Back Again by J.R.R. Tolkien.
What I loved about The Hobbit:
Before Frodo there was Bilbo, the first extraordinary hobbit that we meet from the world of Middle Earth.
Hobbits are generally known for being sensible, unadventurous and respectable, so much to his own surprise Bilbo embarks on a journey with Thorin and his band of dwarves.
Away from the quiet rolling hills of the Shire, Bilbo must learn to live on his wits and overcome many challenges. Along the way he encounters trolls, giant spiders, elves and a particularly dangerous dragon called Smaug.
Bilbo also meets a creature called Gollum and becomes the new owner of a curious ring that will change his life forever.
Growing up in England, I was surrounded by the types of hedges, forests and rivers that Bilbo adventured through.
As a family we would walk in the hills, cross streams, climb rock faces and occasionally have to fight through spiders webs.
Just like Bilbo we used our wits and returned home safely from our adventures. When Bilbo does return home he discovers that some of his relatives, believing him to be dead are trying to claim rights over his home and belongings.
Why I would recommend it:
Bilbo’s adventure reminds us that courage and knowledge overcome fear and that by stepping into unfamiliar territory we can gain much wisdom and experience. Perhaps Tolkien’s book has inspired me more than I thought.
After all, the Cariboo is a long way from and very different to Cumbria (England).
Along my journey there were many exciting places and new friends.
As a child my imagination travelled though Middle Earth with Bilbo and as an adult my willingness to embrace the unknown has taken me on many adventures of my own!
- Kirsten Stark is the literacy outreach worker for Cariboo Chilcotin Partners for Literacy. She enjoys reading and encourages others to enjoy the time-honoured pastime.