"Guide to Reading The Lord of the Rings Series in Sequence" - News

J.R.R. Tolkien's Lord of the Rings saga stands as a cornerstone of fantasy literature, inspiring not only one of the most acclaimed film trilogies but also a continuous stream of new content, including the upcoming Season 2 of Rings of Power and a new movie slated for 2026. This enduring narrative of good versus evil, woven with themes of friendship and heroism, invites readers to dive into the expansive world of Middle-earth. Whether you're new to this universe or a seasoned fan looking to revisit the saga, our guide will help you navigate the reading order of Tolkien's works, either chronologically or by publication date, ensuring you embark on one of the greatest literary adventures of all time.

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

Tolkien's main Middle-earth saga comprises four essential books: The Hobbit and the three volumes of The Lord of the Rings, namely The Fellowship of the Ring, The Two Towers, and The Return of the King. Beyond these, a variety of companion books and collections have been published posthumously, enhancing the lore. We've curated a list of the seven most significant of these works to enrich your journey through Middle-earth.

Lord of the Rings Book Sets

For those looking to start their collection or expand it, there are numerous book sets available, each offering a unique way to experience Tolkien's world. Our top recommendation is the luxurious leather-bound illustrated editions, but there's a style to suit every 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've organized Tolkien's works into two categories for your reading pleasure: the main saga, which follows the chronological adventures of Bilbo and Frodo Baggins, and additional reading, which includes works published after Tolkien's death, arranged by their release dates. Our summaries are designed to be spoiler-light, focusing on key plot points and introductions.

1. The Hobbit

Tolkien's first foray into Middle-earth, The Hobbit, introduces us to Bilbo Baggins and his unexpected journey with Thorin and Company to reclaim the Lonely Mountain from the dragon Smaug. This tale, which first appeared in 1937, sets the stage for the larger saga, introducing pivotal elements such as Gollum and the One Ring.

2. The Fellowship of the Ring

Published nearly two decades after The Hobbit, The Fellowship of the Ring marks the beginning of the epic Lord of the Rings trilogy. It follows Frodo Baggins as he inherits the One Ring from Bilbo and embarks on a quest to destroy it in the fires of Mount Doom. This volume introduces the diverse members of the Fellowship, who vow to aid Frodo in his mission.

3. The Two Towers

The narrative continues in The Two Towers, where the Fellowship splits into two groups. One group, led by Aragorn, confronts the forces of Saruman, while Frodo and Sam, guided by Gollum, continue their perilous journey toward Mordor, facing numerous challenges along the way.

4. The Return of the King

The saga concludes with The Return of the King, detailing the climactic battle against Sauron's forces and the completion of Frodo's quest. The aftermath sees the hobbits returning to a transformed Shire, facing one final challenge before the story's poignant conclusion.

Additional LotR Reading

5. The Silmarillion

The Silmarillion

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The Silmarillion, published posthumously in 1977, delves into the creation of Middle-earth and its history through the Third Age. Edited by Christopher Tolkien, it's a rich tapestry of myths and legends that provides deeper context 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, another collection edited by Christopher Tolkien, offers insights into the lesser-known stories and histories of Middle-earth, including the origins of the wizards and the events leading up to The Lord of the Rings.

7. The History of Middle-earth

The Complete History of Middle-Earth

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This comprehensive twelve-volume series, spanning from 1983 to 1996, explores the development of Tolkien's legendarium, providing a detailed look at the evolution of his works.

8. The Children of Húrin

The Children of Hurin

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Set during the First Age, The Children of Húrin recounts the tragic tale of Húrin and his children, offering a darker exploration of Middle-earth's history.

9. Beren and Lúthien

Beren And Lúthien

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This romantic tale, inspired by Tolkien's own life, follows the adventures of the mortal Beren and the immortal Elf Lúthien, set in the First Age.

10. The Fall of Gondolin

The Fall Of Gondolin

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The Fall of Gondolin, the last Middle-earth novel edited by Christopher Tolkien, tells the story of Tuor and the divine quest that leads to the downfall of Morgoth, connecting to the lineage of Elrond in The Lord of the Rings.

11. The Fall of Númenor

The Fall of Númenor

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Published in 2022, The Fall of Númenor compiles stories from the Second Age, detailing the rise and fall of Númenor, the creation of the Rings of Power, and the rise of Sauron.