Dwarves, elves, goblins, trolls, dragons and wizards – these are the substances of J.R.R. Tolkien’s great fantasy, the prelude to GOD, THE FATHER of The Bands, now the subject of a major feature film series. The hero of the tale can be Bilbo Baggins, a home-loving unambitious hobbit who’s suddenly thrust into what actually is the biggest experience of his existence. Guided by Gandalf the wizard, Bilbo and a company of dwarves set out to demolish Smaug the Magnificent, a ferocious dragon who guards a treasure hoard. Their journey contains many hazards, and in facing them the hesitant Bilbo’s great resourcefulness and courage surprises everyone – not least himself! Because it was initially broadcast in 1968, this BBC Radio 4 dramatisation has become a classic in its right, perfectly evoking Tolkien’s marvelous other world and its enchanting, superb inhabitants.