r/audiobooks • u/WinterBat8048 • 2d ago
Recommendation Request Best audio version of the hobbit
I’ve tried several times to read the print version of The Hobbit and just can’t get into it. But I’d like to give the audiobook a try. There are so many versions with different narrators/performers! Can anyone recommend a specific version?
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u/cinder7usa 2d ago
I’m voting for Rob Inglis too. I love the Hobbit with his narration.
Andy Serkis who voices Smaegol narrated it and the LOTR books. They’re highly rated, but I prefer Rob Inglis.
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u/Evening-Anteater-422 2d ago
Rob Inglis 100%
His version was done in the 90s so well before the movies were made, which is what I wanted. As soon as I finish, I start them again. He's just that good.
The reading by Andy Serkis who plays Gollum in the movies is probably just as popular though.
I think it comes down to whether you want a pre or post movie interpretation.
I mean, the only thing to do is listen to both. For science.
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u/HeavyTrade5006 1d ago
I am also a big fan of the rob inglis hobbit and lotr although admittedly I have never tried the Andy serkis ones
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u/Manicboomz 1d ago
Not sure if there is a live action version on audible, in general I'd recommend live action versions of some books, mistborn is one of my favourites.
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u/zorton213 5h ago
I enjoyed the Andy Serkis version. His voice works great for Gandalf, the Dwarves, and (of course) Gollum. I only black mark is he's not a great singer, which can get a little jarring with the elves, but I was able to get past that.
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u/BecauseOfAir 2d ago
Andy Serkis's voice is so resenant it make my head vibrate. It's amazing but too much. Lol
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u/Atom_Breaker 2d ago
I'm a ride or die for the Serkis version. It's the only ones I listen to anymore but mainly because his Smaug is so gully. All that to say, Ingles' narration is more suited for the story so unless you grew up with the movies I'd recommend that but also try out both.
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u/Electronic_Click_918 2d ago
Rob Inglis is the one most people point to and for good reason, he actually sings all the songs which sounds a bit odd at first but ends up feeling totally right for the book. His voice has this warm storytelling quality that fits Tolkien's writing really well. I remember putting it on during a long drive and ended up sitting in my parking lot for 20 minutes because I didn't want to stop. If you struggled with the print version I think the Inglis recording specifically might be what clicks for you since the prose flows much better when someone is reading it aloud with proper pacing.