How to Read The Lord of the Rings Books in Order

J.R.R. Tolkien's Lord of the Rings saga is a cornerstone of fantasy literature, inspiring one of cinema's most celebrated trilogies. Tolkien's epic tale of good versus evil resonates with timeless themes of friendship and heroism. With The Rings of Power entering its second season and a new Lord of the Rings film slated for 2026, exploring the rich history of Middle-earth is more compelling than ever.

For newcomers to Tolkien's Middle-earth (and its companion books), this guide offers two reading orders: chronological and by publication date. Prepare for an unforgettable adventure!

How Many Books Are in The Lord of the Rings Series?

Tolkien's core Middle-earth saga comprises four books: The Hobbit and the three volumes of The Lord of the Rings (Fellowship of the Ring, Two Towers, Return of the King).

Numerous companion books and collections have been published posthumously (since 1973), seven of which are highlighted below.

Lord of the Rings Book Sets

Whether you're a first-time reader or a seasoned collector, several stunning book sets enhance the experience. We particularly recommend the leather-bound illustrated editions, though many styles are available.

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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Lord of the Rings Reading Order

This guide divides Tolkien's works into two sections: the main Lord of the Rings saga and supplementary readings. The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings follow Bilbo and Frodo Baggins' journeys, presented chronologically. The supplementary section, ordered by publication date, includes post-Tolkien Middle-earth works. Plot summaries below contain only minor spoilers.

1. The Hobbit

Chronologically and publication-wise, The Hobbit (1937) begins the Middle-earth narrative. It follows Bilbo Baggins, Gandalf, and thirteen dwarves led by Thorin Oakenshield as they reclaim Erebor from Smaug. This adventure introduces Gollum and 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 (1954) commences on Bilbo's 111th birthday, when he bequeaths the One Ring to Frodo. Gandalf urges Frodo to leave the Shire, beginning his journey. Frodo, joined by various companions, forms the Fellowship, tasked with destroying the One Ring in Mount Doom. The Fellowship faces betrayal, leading Frodo and Samwise on a solitary path towards Mordor.

3. The Two Towers

The Two Towers (1954) continues the Fellowship's journey, now split. One party confronts orcs and Saruman, while Frodo and Sam encounter Gollum, progressing towards Mordor.

4. The Return of the King

The Return of the King (1955) concludes the Fellowship's quest. Our heroes battle Sauron's forces, with Sam and Frodo completing their mission. The hobbits face a final adversary in the Shire. The book details the fates of each character, bringing Frodo's journey to a close.

Additional Lord of the Rings Reading

5. The Silmarillion

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Published in 1977, The Silmarillion, edited by Christopher Tolkien, is a legendarium of Arda, encompassing Middle-earth's history from creation to the Third Age.

6. Unfinished Tales of Númenor and Middle-earth

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This collection, also edited by Christopher Tolkien, features stories on the origins of the wizards, the Gondor-Rohan alliance, Gandalf's role in The Hobbit, and Sauron's pre-Lord of the Rings activities.

7. The History of Middle-earth

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A twelve-volume series (1983-1996), edited by Christopher Tolkien, analyzing The Lord of the Rings, The Silmarillion, and other writings. The History of The Hobbit (2007), edited by John D. Rateliff, offers a separate analysis of The Hobbit.

8. The Children of Húrin

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A complete version of "Of Túrin Turambar" from The Silmarillion, set during the First Age, telling the tragic tale of Húrin Thalion and his children.

9. Beren and Lúthien

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A First Age love story, compiled by Christopher Tolkien, about Beren and Lúthien, inspired by Tolkien's own romance.

10. The Fall of Gondolin

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The complete version of a tale from The Silmarillion and Unfinished Tales, detailing Tuor's journey to Gondolin and its connection to The Lord of the Rings.

11. The Fall of Númenor

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Published in 2022, edited by Brian Sibley, this volume collects Tolkien's writings on the Second Age, including the rise and fall of Númenor, the creation of the Rings of Power, and the Last Alliance.

Lord of the Rings Reading Order 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)

For Further Reading:

[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]