J.R.R. Tolkien's fantasy novel is a classic. The Hobbit is a great read-aloud for parents to share with children aged 8 and older. The book is also popular with middle school readers. Since the book provides background for Tolkien's "Lord of the Rings" trilogy, reading this book may inspire teens to read more of Tolkien. I would recommend the following three editions for children and teens.
1. The Hobbit, illustrated by J.R.R. Tolkien
If "The Hobbit" is already one of your child's favorite books, one s/he will continue to cherish, I would recommend you buy this deluxe edition. It is boxed and bound in green leatherette. The cover and spine are stamped with gold and red. Tolkien's artwork includes five full page spreads in color, as well as many others in black and green. (Houghton Mifflin, 1973. ISBN: 0395177111)
2. The Hobbit, illustrated by Michael Hague
This hardcover edition works well as a read-aloud, particularly for younger children who sometimes need more visual reinforcement of the text. There are 48 illustrations in full color by well known illustrator Michael Hague. Five of them are double page spreads. The book is also well designed as to type size and layout. Happily, the book also contains Tolkien's two maps. (Houghton Mifflin, 1984. ISBN: 0395362903)3. The Hobbit, with cover art by Peter Sis
If you would prefer a paperback edition, I would recommend this one. The art on the dust jacket of this clothbound book was created by Caldecott Honor artist Peter Sis. The book itself contains ten black and white pen and ink illustrations by Tolkien. The book is well designed for a middle school or older reader. (Houghton Mifflin, 2001. ISBN: 0618162216)