J.R.R. Tolkien's Lord of the Rings saga stands as a monumental work in fantasy literature, inspiring one of the most celebrated film trilogies of all time. This epic tale, weaving themes of friendship, heroism, and the eternal battle between good and evil, continues to captivate audiences. With the second season of Rings of Power on the horizon and a new Lord of the Rings movie slated for 2026, now is the perfect time to delve into the expansive world of Middle-earth.
For newcomers and seasoned fans alike, we've crafted a comprehensive guide to reading Tolkien's works, offering options to explore them either chronologically or by their original publication dates. So, settle in with your favorite reading lamp and embark on one of literature's greatest adventures.
How Many The Lord of the Rings Books Are There in the Series?
Tolkien's main Middle-earth saga consists of four books: The Hobbit and the trilogy known as The Lord of the Rings, comprising The Fellowship of the Ring, The Two Towers, and The Return of the King. Since Tolkien's passing in 1973, numerous companion volumes and collections have been released, enhancing the lore of Middle-earth. We've highlighted seven key additions to consider.
Lord of the Rings Book Sets
Whether you're a first-time reader or looking to expand your collection, there are several enticing book sets to consider. Our top pick? The luxurious leather-bound illustrated editions. However, there are plenty of styles to suit every taste.
The Lord of the Rings Deluxe Illustrated Edition
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The Hobbit And The Lord Of The Rings: Deluxe Pocket Boxed Set
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The Silmarillion Deluxe Illustrated Edition
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The Hobbit Deluxe Illustrated Edition
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The Lord of the Rings Books Reading Order
We've divided Tolkien's Middle-earth works into two sections: the core Lord of the Rings saga and additional readings. The saga, focusing on Bilbo and Frodo Baggins, is arranged by narrative chronology, while the additional readings, published posthumously, are listed by publication date. Here are brief synopses to guide you, with minimal spoilers.
1. The Hobbit
Tolkien's first foray into Middle-earth, The Hobbit, introduces us to Bilbo Baggins. Published in 1937, this tale follows Bilbo, Gandalf, and thirteen dwarves led by Thorin Oakenshield on a quest to reclaim their home from the dragon Smaug. Along their journey, they encounter Gollum, and Bilbo discovers the One Ring. The story culminates in the Battle of Five Armies, famously depicted in the final Hobbit film.
2. The Fellowship of the Ring
Seventeen years after The Hobbit, Tolkien began publishing The Lord of the Rings. Originally conceived as a single narrative, it was split into three volumes for release. The Fellowship of the Ring starts with Bilbo's 111th birthday, where he passes the One Ring to Frodo. After a 17-year gap, Frodo embarks on his quest to destroy the Ring, forming the Fellowship with companions Samwise, Pippin, Merry, Legolas, Gimli, Aragorn, Boromir, and Gandalf. By the book's end, Frodo decides to journey to Mordor alone, accompanied by the loyal Samwise.
3. The Two Towers
In The Two Towers, the second volume, the Fellowship splits into two groups. One group confronts orcs and Saruman, while Frodo and Sam, guided by Gollum, continue their quest towards Mordor.
4. The Return of the King
The final volume, The Return of the King, sees the Fellowship's journey to its climax in Mordor. The heroes battle Sauron's forces, and Frodo and Sam fulfill their mission. After the main conflict, the hobbits face one last challenge in the Shire, a storyline not included in the films. The book concludes with the resolution of each character's arc.
Additional LotR Reading
5. The Silmarillion
The Silmarillion
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The Silmarillion, released posthumously in 1977, is a collection of myths and legends edited by Tolkien's son, Christopher. It covers the history of Arda, encompassing the creation through the Third Age.
6. Unfinished Tales of Númenor and Middle-earth
Unfinished Tales Of Númenor And Middle-Earth
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Unfinished Tales, another posthumous work edited by Christopher Tolkien, offers over a dozen stories and histories of Middle-earth, including the origins of the wizards and Gandalf's role in The Hobbit.
7. The History of Middle-earth
The Complete History of Middle-Earth
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This twelve-volume series, published between 1983 and 1996, compiles and analyzes Tolkien's major works. Note that The History of The Hobbit, edited by John D. Rateliff, covers analyses of The Hobbit specifically.
8. The Children of Húrin
The Children of Hurin
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The Children of Húrin expands on a story from The Silmarillion, set during the First Age. It follows Húrin Thalion and his children, Túrin and Nienor, in a tragic tale of defiance against Morgoth.
9. Beren and Lúthien
Beren And Lúthien
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Beren and Lúthien, a love story from the First Age, was compiled by Christopher Tolkien into a cohesive narrative. It draws inspiration from Tolkien's own romance with his wife Edith.
10. The Fall of Gondolin
The Fall Of Gondolin
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The Fall of Gondolin tells the story of Tuor, whose actions lead to Morgoth's downfall. It connects to The Lord of the Rings through his son Eärendil and grandson Elrond.
11. The Fall of Númenor
The Fall of Númenor
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The Fall of Númenor, published in 2022, gathers stories from the Second Age, including the rise and fall of Númenor and the forging of the Rings of Power, compiled by Brian Sibley.
How to Read The Lord of the Rings By Release Date
- The Hobbit (1937)
- The Fellowship of the Ring (1954)
- The Two Towers (1954)
- The Return of the King (1955)
- The Silmarillion (1977)
- Unfinished Tales (1980)
- The History of Middle-earth (1983–1996)
- The Children of Húrin (2007)
- Beren and Lúthien (2017)
- The Fall of Gondolin (2018)
- The Fall of Númenor (2022)
Part of the main four-book Lord of the Rings saga
For those interested in further exploration, consider checking out new fantasy and sci-fi books, other works similar to The Lord of the Rings, or how to watch the Lord of the Rings movies in order. Every Lord of the Rings Blu-ray set is also available for collectors.
