The Hobbit by J.R.R. Tolkien is Palatine Library’s ONE BOOK

Join us at the Palatine Library in February as we set-out on a journey to Middle Earth, a once-upon-a-time version of J.R.R. Tolkien’s native England, where dwarves and dragons fight over treasure and an ordinary hobbit can go on a life-changing adventure. The Hobbit by J.R.R. Tolkien was chosen as this year’s ONE BOOK community read to coordinate with the recent release of the movie adaptation “The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey”. This fantasy story was written 75 years ago and remains popular today because of its enduring themes and entertaining story.

We will begin our month-long ONE BOOK celebration with two book discussion sessions. Sunday, February 3, from 2:00 – 3:30 p.m., will be for parents and children fifth grade and older. "Families who have seen the beginning of the story in the December movie will enjoy reading the rest of the story together," says librarian Gwenyth Udd. "A discussion with other people gives you fresh insights. I always end up with a deeper appreciation of some of the characters after hearing other people talk about them."

The second book discussion is on Tuesday, February 5, from 7:00 – 8:30 p.m., for teens and adults. Older readers will bring a more mature understanding to the novel. The subtleties of the main character's heroism, the enjoyment of the embedded songs, and other elements are a literary feast for readers with more life experience.

To enrich the experience of reading this tale, we have created some fun programs for readers of all ages. On Sunday, February 10, from 2:00 – 3:15 p.m.., The Marion Consort, Chicago’s premier choral ensemble, performs a dramatic and haunting blend of music from the medieval era, The Lord of the Rings, and The Hobbit films.

Bring the whole family to the Library on Wednesday, February 20, from 7:00 – 8:00 p.m., for two separate programs! Kids (grades K through 6th) can attend the Hobbit Party featuring “hobbitty” crafts, snacks, and games. At the same time, adults and parents can enjoy the travel program about New Zealand with world traveler Laurel Carver. She will present facts about the majestic mountains, forests, and waterways of New Zealand, including Maori cultural sites and filming locations of The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit.

Our celebration would not be complete without a performance from Chicago award-winning theatrical storyteller Megan Wells. Join us on Monday, February 25, from 7:00 – 8:00 p.m., as she tells the story of Bilbo’s first encounter with Gollum in the goblin tunnels beneath the Misty Mountains.

If you have not read The Hobbit recently or not had the time, you are still welcome to attend any of these programs. For more information and to sign up, call 847-358-5881 or visit www.palatinelibrary.org. The Palatine Public Library District is your destination for knowledge, entertainment, and community. We serve approximately 90,000 residents predominantly within the communities of Palatine and Hoffman Estates.