How to Read The Lord of the Rings Books in Order News - Latest Updates and Information

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, woven with themes of friendship and heroism, continues to captivate audiences. With the release of Season 2 of *Rings of Power* and the announcement of a new *Lord of the Rings* movie slated for 2026, it's an exciting time to delve into the expansive world of Middle-earth.

For those eager to embark on this literary journey, we offer a comprehensive guide on how to read the Middle-earth saga, whether by chronological order or by publication date. So, get cozy, dim the lights, and prepare for an unforgettable adventure through one of literature's greatest worlds.

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

**Tolkien's main Middle-earth saga consists of four books**: *The Hobbit* and the trilogy of *The Lord of the Rings* (*The Fellowship of the Ring*, *The Two Towers*, *The Return of the King*). Additionally, since Tolkien's passing in 1973, several other collections and companion books have enriched the lore, with seven key works included in our list 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 exquisite book sets available. Our top pick is the leather-bound illustrated editions, though numerous styles cater to every reader's taste.

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 have organized Tolkien's Middle-earth works into two sections: the primary *Lord of the Rings* saga and additional reading material. The saga follows the adventures of Bilbo and Frodo Baggins, listed in narrative chronology, while the additional reading section includes works published posthumously, ordered by their release date. These summaries are crafted to be spoiler-free, focusing on broad plot points and character introductions for new readers.

1. The Hobbit

*The Hobbit* marks the beginning of Tolkien's Middle-earth saga both in-universe and in real-world publication, first released in 1937. It chronicles the journey of Bilbo Baggins, who joins Thorin and Company—a group led by Thorin Oakenshield, along with Gandalf and thirteen dwarves—to reclaim their ancestral home from the dragon Smaug. This adventure introduces us to Gollum and the One Ring, culminating 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 story begins at Bilbo's 111th birthday celebration, where he passes the One Ring to his cousin Frodo. After a 17-year gap, Gandalf prompts Frodo to leave the Shire with the ring. Frodo, joined by a diverse group of companions, forms the Fellowship tasked with destroying the One Ring in the fires of Mount Doom. By the end of the book, Frodo faces betrayal and decides to continue his journey alone, accompanied only by the loyal Samwise.

3. The Two Towers

In *The Two Towers*, the second volume of the trilogy, the Fellowship splits into two groups. One group, including Frodo and Sam, continues their perilous journey toward Mordor, encountering Gollum along the way. The other group battles orcs and confronts the corrupted wizard Saruman, striving to protect Middle-earth from further harm.

4. The Return of the King

The final volume, *The Return of the King*, brings the saga to a dramatic close. The heroes engage in a fierce battle against Sauron's forces, while Frodo and Sam strive to complete their mission. After the climax, the hobbits return to the Shire to face one last challenge, a sequence not included in the film adaptation. The book concludes with the resolution of each character's journey, marking the end of Frodo's epic quest.

Additional LotR Reading

5. The Silmarillion

The Silmarillion

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*The Silmarillion*, published posthumously in 1977, is a collection of myths and stories edited by Tolkien's son, Christopher. It spans the history of Arda, the world encompassing Middle-earth, from its creation through the Third Age, providing a rich backdrop to the events of *The Hobbit* and *The Lord of the Rings*.

6. Unfinished Tales of Númenor and Middle-earth

Unfinished Tales Of Númenor And Middle-Earth

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*Unfinished Tales*, also edited by Christopher Tolkien, is a compilation of over a dozen stories and histories of Middle-earth. It delves into the origins of the wizards, the alliance between Gondor and Rohan, Gandalf's role in *The Hobbit*, and Sauron's quest for the One Ring before the events of *The Lord of the Rings*.

7. The History of Middle-earth

The Complete History of Middle-Earth

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*The History of Middle-earth* is a twelve-volume series published between 1983 and 1996, edited by Christopher Tolkien. This extensive collection analyzes *The Lord of the Rings*, *The Silmarillion*, and other writings, offering deep insights into Tolkien's creative process. Note that analyses of *The Hobbit* are found in *The History of The Hobbit*, edited by John D. Rateliff and published in 2007.

8. The Children of Húrin

The Children of Hurin

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*The Children of Húrin* is a complete version of the story of Túrin Turambar from *The Silmarillion*, set during the First Age. It explores the tragic consequences of Húrin's defiance against Morgoth, the precursor to Sauron as Middle-earth's main antagonist.

9. Beren and Lúthien

Beren And Lúthien

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*Beren and Lúthien* is a love story set in the First Age, compiled by Christopher Tolkien from various versions of the tale. It follows the adventures of the mortal Beren and the immortal Elf Lúthien, inspired by Tolkien's own romance with his wife Edith.

10. The Fall of Gondolin

The Fall Of Gondolin

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*The Fall of Gondolin* is the complete version of a tale found in *The Silmarillion* and *Unfinished Tales*. It narrates the story of Tuor, sent on a divine mission to Gondolin, leading to events that contribute to Morgoth's defeat. 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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Published in November 2022, *The Fall of Númenor* is a collection of Tolkien's works related to the Second Age of Middle-earth, assembled by Brian Sibley. It covers the rise and fall of Númenor, the forging of the Rings of Power, the rise of Sauron, and the Last Alliance of Elves and Men.

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*

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