J.R.R. Tolkien's Lord of the Rings saga stands as a cornerstone of fantasy literature, inspiring one of the most acclaimed film trilogies of all time. This epic tale of good versus evil, woven with themes of friendship and heroism, continues to captivate audiences. With Rings of Power gearing up for Season 2 and a new Lord of the Rings movie slated for 2026, there's never been a better time to delve into the expansive world of Middle-earth.
For newcomers and seasoned fans alike, we've crafted this comprehensive guide on how to navigate Tolkien's works, offering options to read them chronologically or by their release dates. So, get cozy, dim the lights, and embark on one of the greatest literary adventures of all time.
How Many The Lord of the Rings Books Are There in the Series?
Tolkien's main Middle-earth saga comprises four books: The Hobbit and the three volumes of The Lord of the Rings (The Fellowship of the Ring, The Two Towers, The Return of the King). Additionally, several companion books and collections have been released posthumously, enhancing the lore of Middle-earth. We've highlighted seven of the most significant below.
Lord of the Rings Book Sets
Whether you're a first-time reader or looking to expand your collection, there are several appealing book sets to consider. Our top pick is the luxurious leather-bound illustrated editions, though various styles are available 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 organized Tolkien's Middle-earth works into two categories: the core Lord of the Rings saga and additional readings. The saga, which follows the adventures of Bilbo and Frodo Baggins, is presented in narrative chronology. The additional readings, published after Tolkien's passing, are listed by publication date. These summaries are crafted to avoid major spoilers, focusing on broad plot points and character introductions.
1. The Hobbit
Tolkien's first foray into Middle-earth, The Hobbit, sets the stage both chronologically and by release date (1937). The story follows Bilbo Baggins, who joins Thorin Oakenshield and a band of dwarves on a quest to reclaim their home from the dragon Smaug. Along the way, Bilbo encounters Gollum and acquires the One Ring, leading to the climactic Battle of Five Armies.
2. The Fellowship of the Ring
Published nearly two decades later in 1954, The Fellowship of the Ring marks the beginning of The Lord of the Rings. The narrative starts with Bilbo's 111th birthday, where he passes the One Ring to Frodo. After a 17-year gap, Frodo embarks on a quest to destroy the Ring, forming the Fellowship with companions like Samwise, Gandalf, and others, aiming for Mount Doom in Mordor.
3. The Two Towers
Continuing the saga in 1954, The Two Towers follows the split Fellowship. One group, including Frodo and Sam, journeys toward Mordor, while the others confront Saruman and his forces. The narrative weaves between these two groups, building tension and advancing the plot.
4. The Return of the King
The final volume, published in 1955, concludes the epic journey. The heroes face Sauron's armies, and Frodo and Sam reach the climax of their mission. The story wraps up with the hobbits returning to the Shire, facing one last challenge, and the fates of the characters are revealed.
Additional LotR Reading
5. The Silmarillion
The Silmarillion
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Published posthumously in 1977, The Silmarillion is a collection of myths and legends detailing the history of Arda, the world encompassing Middle-earth. Edited by Christopher Tolkien, it spans from the creation of Arda 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, released in 1980, offers a deeper look into Middle-earth's lore, including stories about the wizards, the alliance between Gondor and Rohan, and Sauron's quest for the One Ring.
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, provides an extensive analysis of Tolkien's writings, edited by Christopher Tolkien. It covers The Lord of the Rings, The Silmarillion, and other works, excluding The Hobbit, which is analyzed separately in The History of The Hobbit.
8. The Children of Húrin
The Children of Hurin
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Published in 2007, The Children of Húrin expands on a tale from The Silmarillion, focusing on the tragic story of Húrin and his children during the First Age.
9. Beren and Lúthien
Beren And Lúthien
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Released in 2017, Beren and Lúthien compiles various versions of this First Age love story, inspired by Tolkien's own romance with his wife Edith.
10. The Fall of Gondolin
The Fall Of Gondolin
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Published in 2018, The Fall of Gondolin tells the story of Tuor and the divine quest to defeat Morgoth, connecting to The Lord of the Rings through Tuor's son Eärendil.
11. The Fall of Númenor
The Fall of Númenor
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Released in 2022, The Fall of Númenor compiles stories from the Second Age, including the rise and fall of Númenor and the forging of the Rings of Power, edited 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
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