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 greatest trilogies. Tolkien's epic tale of good versus evil resonates with timeless themes of friendship and heroism. With Rings of Power entering its second season and a new Lord of the Rings film slated for 2026, there's never been a better time to explore the rich tapestry of Middle-earth.

For newcomers to Tolkien's Middle-earth (and its companion works), this guide offers two reading orders: chronological and by publication date. Gather your blankets, dim the lights, and 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, seven of which are highlighted below.

Lord of the Rings Book Sets

Whether you're a first-time reader or a seasoned collector, several excellent Lord of the Rings book sets are available. While we favor the leather-bound illustrated editions, many styles cater to diverse 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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Lord of the Rings Reading Order

This guide presents Tolkien's Middle-earth works in two sections: the core Lord of the Rings saga and supplemental reading. The Hobbit and Lord of the Rings books follow Bilbo and Frodo Baggins' journeys, presented chronologically. The supplemental section, ordered by publication date, includes post-Tolkien works. Plot summaries are provided with minimal spoilers.

1. The Hobbit

Chronologically and publication-wise, The Hobbit is the first Middle-earth book. Published in 1937, it precedes The Lord of the Rings by 17 years. This adventure follows Bilbo Baggins, Gandalf, and thirteen dwarves led by Thorin Oakenshield as they reclaim Erebor from Smaug. We're introduced to Gollum and witness Bilbo's acquisition of the One Ring, culminating in the Battle of Five Armies.

2. The Fellowship of the Ring

Published nearly two decades after The Hobbit, this begins on Bilbo's 111th birthday, where he bequeaths the One Ring to Frodo. Unlike the film, a 17-year gap separates this event and Frodo's quest, initiated by Gandalf. Frodo gathers companions, forming the Fellowship, tasked with destroying the Ring in Mount Doom. The Fellowship faces betrayal, leading Frodo and Samwise on a solitary journey toward Mordor.

3. The Two Towers

The second volume continues the Fellowship's journey, now split. One party confronts orcs and Saruman, while Frodo and Sam encounter Gollum.

4. The Return of the King

The final volume concludes the Fellowship's quest, culminating in battles against Sauron's forces. Sam and Frodo complete their mission, and the hobbits face a final adversary in the Shire (omitted from the films). The fates of the characters are revealed.

Additional Lord of the Rings Reading

5. The Silmarillion

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Published posthumously in 1977, The Silmarillion is a legendarium of Arda, encompassing Middle-earth's history from creation to the Third Age. Edited by Christopher Tolkien, it covers myths and stories across various ages.

6. Unfinished Tales of Númenor and Middle-earth

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This collection, also edited by Christopher Tolkien, includes stories about 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, compiling and analyzing The Lord of the Rings, The Silmarillion, and other writings. The History of The Hobbit (edited by John D. Rateliff) covers The Hobbit.

8. The Children of Húrin

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A complete version of Of Túrin Turambar from The Silmarillion, set in 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 from various versions by Christopher Tolkien, inspired by Tolkien's romance with his wife.

10. The Fall of Gondolin

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The complete version of a tale from The Silmarillion and Unfinished Tales, relating Tuor's quest to Gondolin and its connection to The Lord of the Rings. The last Middle-earth novel edited by Christopher Tolkien.

11. The Fall of Númenor

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Published in 2022, this collection, edited by Brian Sibley, covers the Second Age, including the rise and fall of Númenor, the Rings of Power, Sauron's rise, and the Last Alliance.

Lord of the Rings Reading Order by Publication 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)

Further Reading:

New Fantasy and Sci-Fi BooksBest Books Like Lord of the RingsHow to Watch The Lord of the Rings Movies in OrderEvery Lord of the Rings Blu-ray Set

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