Tried to read this almost a decade ago and shelved it. This time I finished it. Don't think I am going to say anything new about it so I'll keep it short. I think the reason I was able to finish it this time was perhaps I have aged into it a bit. Bilbo is more relatable as a character as you get older. You grow to appreciate the wisdom of having a good home, hearth and household while understanding the pangs of wanting an occasional adventure. I may have read it with more warmth and humor than I was capable of a decade ago.
Probably would have been great had I not read a huge amount of stuff that is derived from this already.