There and Back Again by Pat Murphy writing as Max Merriwell is a great spaced-up version of The Hobbit It started as a joke between Pat and her editor; something Pat, as Max, had been daydreaming about doing but was sure she'd never have the nerve to try. Pat really had nothing to worry about because this novel is completely delightful. Even on its own, for someone who's never read The Hobbit (is there such a person?) it's a great intergalactic romp. It's great as space opera, and the characters are well-developed. If you remember the original story the plot of There and Back Again is predictable, but exactly how the things that happen will happen is fun to watch unfold. Reading this fun piece will give the reader a more well-rounded view of Pat Murphy's work.