There on the gray stone in the grass was an enormous thrush, nearly coal black, its pale yellow breast freckled with dark spots. ... It had caught a snail and knocking it on the stone. ... The dwarves never suspected him of him taking the sacred stone and he was praised by the dwarves for finding the mithril coat, which suited him well. ...

• Word Count: 646
• Approx Pages: 3
• Grade Level: High School

Frodo wakes in the house of Elrond in Rivendell. Gandalf is beside him and he tells the Hobbit that his friends are all safe. The wizard knows about most of their journey because the Hobbit has been talking in his sleep. Gandalf was delayed and could not guide them because he was held captive. Frodo...

• Word Count: 7779
• Approx Pages: 31
• Grade Level: High School