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, there's never been a better time to journey into the rich tapestry of Middle-earth.

For newcomers to Tolkien's Middle-earth (and its companion works), this guide provides reading order options: chronological or by publication date. Prepare for an unforgettable adventure!

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

Tolkien's main 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 excellent book sets are available. Our top recommendation is the leather-bound illustrated edition, but many styles cater to various preferences.

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 Reading Order

This guide divides Tolkien's Middle-earth works into two sections: the core Lord of the Rings saga and supplemental readings. The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings follow Bilbo and Frodo Baggins' journeys, presented chronologically. The supplemental section includes posthumously published works, ordered by publication date. Plot summaries offer minimal spoilers.

1. The Hobbit

Chronologically and historically, The Hobbit (1937) is the first Middle-earth tale. It follows Bilbo Baggins, Gandalf, and thirteen dwarves led by Thorin Oakenshield as they reclaim the dwarves' ancestral home from Smaug the dragon. 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 begins on Bilbo's 111th birthday, when he bequeaths the One Ring to Frodo. Gandalf urges Frodo to leave the Shire, initiating a journey to destroy the Ring in Mount Doom. Frodo, Samwise Gamgee, Pippin Took, Merry Brandybuck, Legolas, Gimli, Aragorn, Boromir, and Gandalf form the Fellowship, facing betrayal and ultimately splitting into two groups.

3. The Two Towers

The Two Towers continues the divided Fellowship's journey. One group confronts orcs and Saruman, while Frodo and Sam encounter Gollum and press onward to Mordor.

4. The Return of the King

The final volume concludes the Fellowship's quest, culminating in battles against Sauron's armies and a final confrontation at the Shire. The fates of the characters are revealed as Frodo's journey ends.

Additional LotR Reading

5. The Silmarillion

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The Silmarillion (1977), 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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Unfinished Tales (1980), also edited by Christopher Tolkien, presents various stories and histories, including the origins of the wizards, the Gondor-Rohan alliance, and Gandalf's role in The Hobbit.

7. The History of Middle-earth

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The History of Middle-earth (1983-1996), a twelve-volume series edited by Christopher Tolkien, compiles and analyzes The Lord of the Rings, The Silmarillion, and other writings.

8. The Children of Húrin

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The Children of Húrin (2007) tells the tragic tale of Húrin Thalion and his children during the First Age.

9. Beren and Lúthien

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Beren and Lúthien (2017) is a love story set in the First Age, inspired by Tolkien's own romance.

10. The Fall of Gondolin

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The Fall of Gondolin (2018) tells the story of Tuor and his journey to Gondolin, connecting to The Lord of the Rings through his son Eärendil.

11. The Fall of Númenor

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The Fall of Númenor (2022), edited by Brian Sibley, collects writings about the Second Age, including the rise and fall of Númenor and the creation of the Rings of Power.

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)

For Further Exploration:

[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]