J.R.R. Tolkien's Lord of the Rings saga stands as a cornerstone of fantasy literature, inspiring not only one of the greatest film trilogies but also a universe ripe with tales of heroism, friendship, and the eternal struggle between good and evil. With the excitement around Rings of Power Season 2 and the announcement of a new Lord of the Rings movie set for 2026, delving into the expansive world of Middle-earth has never been more appealing. Whether you're a newcomer or a seasoned fan looking to revisit the saga, here's a comprehensive guide on how to read the books, either chronologically or by release date, to fully immerse yourself in one of the greatest adventures of all time.
How Many The Lord of the Rings Books Are There in the Series?
There are four books in Tolkien’s main Middle-earth saga: The Hobbit and the three volumes of The Lord of the Rings (Fellowship of the Ring, Two Towers, Return of the King). Since Tolkien's passing in 1973, numerous other collections and companion books have been released, enriching the lore of Middle-earth. We’ve curated a list of seven essential companion books to enhance your journey through Tolkien's universe.
Lord of the Rings Book Sets
For those embarking on their first adventure into the world of Middle-earth or looking to expand their collection, several appealing book sets are available. Our top recommendation is the leather-bound illustrated editions, which bring Tolkien's world to life in stunning detail. However, there are various 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 main Lord of the Rings saga and additional reading. The saga itself, including The Hobbit and the Lord of the Rings trilogy, follows the adventures of Bilbo and Frodo Baggins and is presented here in narrative chronological order. The additional reading section comprises Middle-earth-related works published posthumously, listed by publication date.
1. The Hobbit
Tolkien's first foray into Middle-earth, The Hobbit, sets the stage for the saga. Released in 1937, it introduces us to Bilbo Baggins, who joins Thorin and Company on a quest to reclaim the dwarves’ mountain home from the dragon Smaug. This journey introduces pivotal characters like Gandalf and Gollum and lays the groundwork for the larger story of the One Ring.
2. The Fellowship of the Ring
Seventeen years after The Hobbit, Tolkien began the epic tale of The Lord of the Rings with The Fellowship of the Ring, published in 1954. The story picks up at Bilbo's 111th birthday, where he bequeaths the One Ring to Frodo, setting off a chain of events that leads to the formation of the Fellowship tasked with destroying the Ring in the fires of Mount Doom.
3. The Two Towers
The narrative continues in The Two Towers, where the Fellowship divides into two groups. One group battles against Saruman's forces, while Frodo and Sam, guided by Gollum, press on toward Mordor. This volume deepens the lore and expands the scope of the battle against evil.
4. The Return of the King
The saga concludes with The Return of the King, where the fate of Middle-earth hangs in the balance. The hobbits' journey culminates in the destruction of the Ring, followed by a return to the Shire to face one last challenge, a story arc absent from the film adaptation.
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 that span the creation of Arda to the Third Age, providing a broader understanding of Middle-earth's history.
6. Unfinished Tales of Númenor and Middle-earth
Unfinished Tales Of Númenor And Middle-Earth
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Unfinished Tales offers further insights into Middle-earth's lore, including the origins of the wizards and the backstory leading to the events of The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings.
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, delves deeply into the development of Tolkien's Middle-earth writings, offering a fascinating look at his creative process.
8. The Children of Húrin
The Children of Hurin
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Set during the First Age, The Children of Húrin explores the tragic tale of Húrin and his children, providing a deeper look into the early history of Middle-earth.
9. Beren and Lúthien
Beren And Lúthien
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A romantic narrative from the First Age, Beren and Lúthien tells the story of a mortal man and an immortal elf, inspired by Tolkien’s own love story with his wife.
10. The Fall of Gondolin
The Fall Of Gondolin
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The Fall of Gondolin recounts the tale of Tuor and the city of Gondolin, connecting directly to the lineage of characters in The Lord of the Rings.
11. The Fall of Númenor
The Fall of Númenor
5$40.00 save 46%$21.54 at Amazon
Published in 2022, The Fall of Númenor compiles stories related to the Second Age of Middle-earth, offering insights into the events leading up to The Lord of the Rings.
How to Read The Lord of the Rings By Release Date
For those interested in following the timeline of Tolkien's publications:
- 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 looking to expand their reading further, consider exploring new fantasy and sci-fi books, the best books like 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 avid collectors.
