Guide to Reading The Lord of the Rings Series in Order

J.R.R. Tolkien's Lord of the Rings saga remains a cornerstone of fantasy literature, inspiring one of the most acclaimed film trilogies and now fueling further excitement with the upcoming Season 2 of Rings of Power and a new Lord of the Rings movie slated for 2026. This rich tapestry of Middle-earth's history is the perfect backdrop for diving into Tolkien's world of epic battles, timeless friendships, and heroic deeds.

For those eager to embark on this literary journey but unsure where to start, we've crafted a comprehensive guide on how to read Tolkien's works, both chronologically and by their publication dates. So, cozy up with your favorite blanket, dim the lights, and let’s explore one of the greatest adventures in literature.

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

Tolkien’s main Middle-earth saga comprises four books: The Hobbit and the three volumes of The Lord of the Rings (The Fellowship of the Ring, The Two Towers, The Return of the King). In addition, numerous other collections and companion books have been released since Tolkien's passing in 1973. We’ve highlighted seven of the most significant works below.

Lord of the Rings Book Sets

Whether you're a newcomer to the world of Middle-earth or looking to expand your collection, there are several enticing book sets available. Our top pick is the luxurious leather-bound illustrated editions, though 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 organized Tolkien’s Middle-earth works into two sections: the core Lord of the Rings saga and additional readings. The saga, featuring Bilbo and Frodo Baggins, follows a narrative chronology, while the additional works, published posthumously, are arranged by their publication dates. Here are brief, spoiler-light synopses to guide you.

1. The Hobbit

As the first book in both in-universe chronology and real-world publication (1937), The Hobbit introduces us to Bilbo Baggins. Alongside Thorin and Company, including Gandalf and thirteen dwarves, Bilbo embarks on a quest to reclaim the Lonely Mountain from the dragon Smaug. This journey introduces pivotal characters like Gollum and the One Ring, culminating in the epic Battle of Five Armies.

2. The Fellowship of the Ring

Published nearly two decades later in 1954, The Fellowship of the Ring initiates the epic tale of the One Ring. The story begins at Bilbo's 111th birthday celebration, where he passes the ring to his cousin Frodo. After a 17-year gap not depicted in the films, Frodo sets out on his quest to destroy the ring, forming the Fellowship with companions like Samwise, Pippin, Merry, Legolas, Gimli, Aragorn, Boromir, and Gandalf. The volume concludes with Frodo’s decision to continue to Mordor alone, though Sam remains steadfastly by his side.

3. The Two Towers

Continuing the saga, The Two Towers (1954) follows the splintered paths of the Fellowship. One group battles orcs and faces Saruman, while Frodo and Sam, guided by Gollum, push towards Mordor, facing trials that test their resolve and loyalty.

4. The Return of the King

The final volume, The Return of the King (1955), brings the epic to a close. As the Fellowship confronts Sauron's forces, Frodo and Sam reach the climax of their journey. After defeating Sauron, the hobbits return to the Shire to face one last challenge, absent from the films. The book wraps up with the fate of each character, marking the end of Frodo’s adventure.

Additional LotR Reading

These works, published after Tolkien's death, offer deeper insights into Middle-earth’s lore and history.

5. The Silmarillion

Published in 1977 and edited by Christopher Tolkien, The Silmarillion is a collection of myths and stories detailing the history of Arda, from its creation through the Third Age.

6. Unfinished Tales of Númenor and Middle-earth

Released in 1980, this collection, also edited by Christopher Tolkien, includes stories about Middle-earth’s history, such as the origins of the wizards and Sauron’s search for the One Ring.

7. The History of Middle-earth

A twelve-volume series published between 1983 and 1996, edited by Christopher Tolkien, this extensive collection analyzes Tolkien’s writings on Middle-earth, excluding The Hobbit.

8. The Children of Húrin

Published in 2007, this complete version of a tale from The Silmarillion set during the First Age, follows the tragic story of Húrin and his children, Túrin and Nienor.

9. Beren and Lúthien

This 2017 publication compiles various versions of a love story from the First Age, inspired by Tolkien’s own romance with his wife Edith.

10. The Fall of Gondolin

Published in 2018, this work tells the tale of Tuor and the fall of Gondolin, connecting to The Lord of the Rings through Tuor’s son Eärendil.

11. The Fall of Númenor

The latest addition, published in 2022, this collection, edited by Brian Sibley, covers the Second Age of Middle-earth, including the rise and fall of Númenor and the forging of the Rings of Power.

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