"Guide to Reading Lord of the Rings in Sequence"

J.R.R. Tolkien's Lord of the Rings saga is a cornerstone of fantasy literature that has inspired one of the most acclaimed film trilogies of all time. This epic tale of good versus evil weaves timeless themes of friendship and heroism into its narrative, making it ever-relevant. With the second season of "Rings of Power" on the horizon and a new Lord of the Rings movie set for 2026, there's no better time to delve into the expansive universe of Middle-earth.

If you're new to Tolkien's world or looking to revisit it, we've crafted a comprehensive guide on how to read the Middle-earth books, whether you prefer chronological order or by their release dates. So, prepare for an unforgettable journey through one of literature's greatest adventures.

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 trilogy known as "The Lord of the Rings," which includes "The Fellowship of the Ring," "The Two Towers," and "The Return of the King."

Since Tolkien's passing in 1973, numerous companion books and collections have been released. Below, we've highlighted the seven most significant additions to the Middle-earth lore.

Lord of the Rings Book Sets

For those embarking on their first journey through Middle-earth or looking to enhance their collection, several book sets are worth considering. Our top recommendation is the elegant leather-bound illustrated editions, though various 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 works into two categories: the main Lord of the Rings saga and additional readings. The saga follows the adventures of Bilbo and Frodo Baggins, listed in narrative chronology, while the additional readings, published posthumously, are ordered by their publication dates.

These summaries are designed for newcomers and contain only mild spoilers, focusing on broad plot points and character introductions.

1. The Hobbit

"The Hobbit" marks the beginning of Tolkien's Middle-earth saga both chronologically and in terms of publication, first released in 1937. It narrates the journey of Bilbo Baggins, who joins a group led by Thorin Oakenshield to reclaim the dwarves' mountain home from the dragon Smaug. Along the way, Bilbo encounters Gollum and acquires the One Ring. The story culminates in the epic Battle of Five Armies.

2. The Fellowship of the Ring

Published nearly two decades after "The Hobbit," "The Fellowship of the Ring" initiates the Lord of the Rings trilogy. The narrative starts at Bilbo's 111th birthday party, where he leaves the One Ring to Frodo. After a 17-year gap, Frodo embarks on his quest to destroy the Ring. Accompanied by a diverse group of companions, they form the Fellowship of the Ring, tasked with taking the Ring to Mount Doom in Mordor. By the end, Frodo, betrayed, decides to continue alone, with Samwise loyally following.

3. The Two Towers

In "The Two Towers," the Fellowship splits into two groups: Frodo and Sam, guided by Gollum, continue towards Mordor, while the others confront orcs and the fallen wizard Saruman, navigating their own challenges.

4. The Return of the King

The final volume, "The Return of the King," sees the culmination of the Fellowship's quest. As the heroes clash with Sauron's forces, Frodo and Sam reach the climax of their mission. Post-victory, the hobbits return to a changed Shire, confronting one last enemy. The book concludes with the resolution of each character's story and Frodo's final departure.

Additional LotR Reading

5. The Silmarillion

The Silmarillion

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"The Silmarillion," published posthumously in 1977, is a collection of myths and legends detailing the history of Arda, the world encompassing Middle-earth, from its creation to the Third Age.

6. Unfinished Tales of Númenor and Middle-earth

Unfinished Tales Of Númenor And Middle-Earth

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"Unfinished Tales" gathers various stories and histories of Middle-earth, edited by Christopher Tolkien. It delves into topics like the origins of the wizards, the alliance between Gondor and Rohan, Gandalf's motivations in "The Hobbit," and Sauron's quest for the One Ring.

7. The History of Middle-earth

The Complete History of Middle-Earth

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"The History of Middle-earth" is a comprehensive twelve-volume series, published between 1983 and 1996, that compiles and analyzes Tolkien's writings, excluding "The Hobbit," which is covered in "The History of The Hobbit."

8. The Children of Húrin

The Children of Hurin

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"The Children of Húrin" expands on the story of Túrin Turambar from "The Silmarillion," set in the First Age. It explores the tragic consequences of Húrin's defiance against Morgoth.

9. Beren and Lúthien

Beren And Lúthien

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"Beren and Lúthien" compiles various versions of the love story between the mortal Beren and the immortal Elf Lúthien, set during the First Age. This tale is deeply personal to Tolkien, inspired by his relationship 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, leading to Morgoth's downfall. This story connects to "The Lord of the Rings" through Tuor's son Eärendil, father of Elrond.

11. The Fall of Númenor

The Fall of Númenor

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"The Fall of Númenor," published in 2022, compiles stories from the Second Age, including the rise and fall of Númenor, the forging of the Rings of Power, and the rise of Sauron.

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
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• How to Watch The Lord of the Rings Movies in Order
• Every Lord of the Rings Blu-ray Set