J.R.R. Tolkien's Lord of the Rings saga remains a cornerstone of fantasy literature, captivating readers with its epic tale of good versus evil, friendship, and heroism. 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 rich tapestry of Middle-earth.
For those new to Tolkien's world, we've crafted a comprehensive guide on how to read the series, whether you prefer chronological order or by release date. So, settle in, 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 consists of four books: The Hobbit and the three volumes of The Lord of the Rings—The Fellowship of the Ring, The Two Towers, and The Return of the King. Additionally, several companion books have been released posthumously, with seven of the most significant included in our list below.
Lord of the Rings Book Sets
For newcomers or collectors looking to enhance their library, there are several excellent book sets available. Our top recommendation is the leather-bound illustrated editions, but a variety of styles cater to different tastes.
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 works into two sections: the main Lord of the Rings saga and additional reading. The saga follows the adventures of Bilbo and Frodo Baggins, listed in narrative chronology. The additional reading includes works published after Tolkien's death, organized by publication date. These summaries contain mild spoilers, focusing on broad plot points and character introductions.
1. The Hobbit
Tolkien's first Middle-earth book, The Hobbit, was published in 1937 and introduces us to Bilbo Baggins. The story follows Bilbo, Gandalf, and thirteen dwarves led by Thorin Oakenshield as they seek to reclaim their home from the dragon Smaug. Along the way, Bilbo encounters Gollum and acquires the One Ring, culminating in the Battle of Five Armies.
2. The Fellowship of the Ring
Published nearly two decades after The Hobbit, The Fellowship of the Ring begins the Lord of the Rings trilogy. The story starts at Bilbo's 111th birthday, where he passes the One Ring to Frodo. After a 17-year gap, Frodo sets out on his quest to destroy the Ring, forming the Fellowship with Samwise Gamgee, Pippin Took, Merry Brandybuck, Legolas, Gimli, Aragorn, Boromir, and Gandalf. By the end of the book, Frodo decides to continue alone to Mordor, accompanied only by Sam.
3. The Two Towers
In The Two Towers, the Fellowship splits into two groups. One group, including Frodo and Sam, continues toward Mordor, while the others confront orcs and the corrupted wizard Saruman. Frodo and Sam meet Gollum, who guides them on their perilous journey.
4. The Return of the King
The final volume, The Return of the King, sees the culmination of the Fellowship's mission. The heroes battle Sauron's forces while Frodo and Sam push toward Mount Doom. After the climax, the hobbits return to the Shire to face one last challenge, omitted from the film adaptation. The book concludes with the fates of the characters, marking the end of Frodo's journey.
Additional LotR Reading
5. The Silmarillion
The Silmarillion
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Published posthumously in 1977, The Silmarillion is a collection of myths and stories detailing the history of Arda, the world encompassing Middle-earth. Edited by Christopher Tolkien, it spans from Arda's 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 is a collection of stories and histories edited by Christopher Tolkien, covering topics like the origins of the five wizards, the alliance between Gondor and Rohan, and Sauron's search 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, compiles and analyzes Tolkien's writings on Middle-earth, excluding The Hobbit. The History of The Hobbit, edited by John D. Rateliff, was published separately in 2007.
8. The Children of Húrin
The Children of Hurin
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Set during the First Age, The Children of Húrin expands on the story of Húrin Thalion and his children, Túrin and Nienor, as they face the consequences of Húrin's defiance against Morgoth.
9. Beren and Lúthien
Beren And Lúthien
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Beren and Lúthien is a First Age love story between the mortal man Beren and the immortal Elf Lúthien. Edited by Christopher Tolkien, 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 recounts the tale of Tuor's divine mission to Gondolin and the events leading to Morgoth's defeat. It connects to the Lord of the Rings through Tuor's son Eärendil, who fathers Elrond.
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 Tolkien's writings on the Second Age, including the rise and fall of Númenor, the forging of the Rings of Power, and the Last Alliance of Elves and Men.
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 Further Browsing:
New Fantasy and Sci-Fi Books
Best Books Like Lord of the Rings
How to Watch The Lord of the Rings Movies in Order
Every Lord of the Rings Blu-ray Set
