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, exploring Middle-earth's rich history is more compelling than ever.

This guide helps readers navigate Tolkien's Middle-earth saga (and its companion books), offering reading orders by chronology and release 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 since Tolkien's passing in 1973; seven key works are detailed below.

Lord of the Rings Book Sets

Whether you're a newcomer or a seasoned collector, several exceptional Lord of the Rings book sets grace the market. Our top recommendation features beautifully illustrated, leather-bound editions, but diverse styles cater to every preference.

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

This guide divides Tolkien's Middle-earth works into two sections: the core 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 Middle-earth works published posthumously. Plot summaries below contain only minor spoilers.

1. The Hobbit

Chronologically and by release date (1937), The Hobbit is the first Middle-earth book. It introduces Bilbo Baggins, Gandalf, and thirteen dwarves led by Thorin Oakenshield as they embark on a quest to reclaim their ancestral home from the dragon 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, this first volume of The Lord of the Rings begins on Bilbo's 111th birthday, when he bequeaths the One Ring to Frodo. A seventeen-year gap elapses before Gandalf urges Frodo to leave the Shire. Frodo's journey forms the Fellowship, tasked with destroying the One Ring in Mordor. The Fellowship faces betrayal, leading Frodo and Samwise on a solitary path to Mordor.

3. The Two Towers

Continuing the Fellowship's journey, this second volume follows the divided party: Frodo and Sam, and the remaining members. One group confronts orcs and Saruman, while Frodo and Sam encounter Gollum.

4. The Return of the King

The final volume concludes the Fellowship's journey, depicting battles against Sauron's armies and the hobbits' final confrontation in the Shire (omitted from the films). The fates of the characters are revealed as Frodo's quest concludes.

Additional LotR Reading

5. The Silmarillion

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Published posthumously 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 wizards' origins, 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 Middle-earth writings. The History of The Hobbit (2007), edited by John D. Rateliff, covers The Hobbit.

8. The Children of Húrin

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A complete version of a story from The Silmarillion, set in the First Age, detailing 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, telling the story of Tuor and his role in defeating Morgoth. It connects to The Lord of the Rings through Tuor's son Eärendil.

11. The Fall of Númenor

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

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 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]