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"Mastering the Order: How to Read The Lord of the Rings Series"

by Benjamin May 04,2025

J.R.R. Tolkien's Lord of the Rings saga is not just a cornerstone of fantasy literature but has also inspired one of the most acclaimed film trilogies of all time. The epic narrative, revolving around themes of good versus evil, friendship, and heroism, continues to captivate audiences. With the excitement building around the second season of "Rings of Power" and the announcement of a new Lord of the Rings movie slated for 2026, there's never been a better moment to delve into the vast and intricate world of Middle-earth.

For those new to Tolkien's universe, or seasoned fans looking to revisit the saga, we offer a comprehensive guide on how to read the books. Whether you prefer to follow the chronological order of the story or the sequence of their release, we've got you covered. So, get cozy, dim the lights, and let's embark on one of the greatest literary adventures ever told.

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

The core of Tolkien's Middle-earth saga comprises four books: The Hobbit and the trilogy of The Lord of the Rings, which includes The Fellowship of the Ring, The Two Towers, and The Return of the King. Beyond these, numerous companion books and collections have been released posthumously, enhancing the lore of Middle-earth. We've selected seven of the most significant works to include in our guide.

Lord of the Rings Book Sets

For newcomers eager to start their journey into Middle-earth or collectors looking to expand their shelves, there are several enticing book sets available. Our top pick is the luxurious leather-bound illustrated editions, but a variety of styles cater to every taste.

The Lord of the Rings Deluxe Illustrated Edition

0See it at Amazon

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

4See it at Amazon

The Lord of the Rings Books Reading Order

We've organized Tolkien's works into two categories: the main saga, which follows the adventures of Bilbo and Frodo Baggins, and additional readings, which provide deeper insights into Middle-earth's history and lore. The saga is listed in narrative chronological order, while the additional readings are arranged by publication date.

To keep things fresh for newcomers, we've included 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 in-universe and by its publication in 1937. This tale chronicles Bilbo Baggins' unexpected journey with Thorin and Company, which includes Gandalf and thirteen dwarves, to reclaim the Lonely Mountain from the dragon Smaug. Along the way, Bilbo encounters Gollum and acquires the One Ring, setting the stage for future adventures. 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 epic journey of Frodo Baggins. The narrative begins with Bilbo's 111th birthday, where he passes the One Ring to Frodo. A significant 17-year gap in the book (not shown in the films) leads to Frodo's departure from the Shire under Gandalf's guidance. Frodo assembles a diverse group of companions, forming the Fellowship tasked with destroying the One Ring in the fires of Mount Doom. By the end of the volume, Frodo, betrayed, sets off alone towards Mordor, with only Samwise by his side.

3. The Two Towers

In The Two Towers, the Fellowship fragments into two groups. Frodo and Sam continue their perilous journey towards Mordor, guided by Gollum, while the remaining members confront orcs and the corrupted wizard Saruman. This volume intensifies the stakes and expands the scope of the conflict.

4. The Return of the King

The saga concludes with The Return of the King, where the battle against Sauron reaches its climax. While Sam and Frodo face their final challenges, the rest of the Fellowship engages in epic battles. After the destruction of the Ring, the hobbits return to the Shire to confront one last adversary, a plot point not included in the film adaptation. The book ends with farewells and the resolution of each character's journey.

Additional LotR Reading

5. The Silmarillion

The Silmarillion

7See it at Amazon

The Silmarillion, published posthumously in 1977, is a collection of myths and legends that trace the history of Arda, the world encompassing Middle-earth, from its creation to the Third Age. Edited by Christopher Tolkien, this work enriches the lore of Middle-earth.

6. Unfinished Tales of Númenor and Middle-earth

Unfinished Tales Of Númenor And Middle-Earth

7See it at Amazon

Unfinished Tales offers over a dozen stories and histories of Middle-earth, also edited by Christopher Tolkien. It includes tales about the wizards, the alliance between Gondor and Rohan, Gandalf's role in The Hobbit, and Sauron's quest for the One Ring before The Lord of the Rings.

7. The History of Middle-earth

The Complete History of Middle-Earth

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The twelve-volume series The History of Middle-earth, published between 1983 and 1996, provides an extensive analysis of Tolkien's works, including The Lord of the Rings and The Silmarillion. Notably, it does not include The Hobbit, which is covered in The History of The Hobbit by John D. Rateliff.

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 during the First Age, it delves into the tragic consequences of Húrin's defiance against Morgoth, offering a deep dive into the darker aspects of Middle-earth's history.

9. Beren and Lúthien

Beren And Lúthien

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

10. The Fall of Gondolin

The Fall Of Gondolin

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The Fall of Gondolin completes the tale of Tuor's journey to Gondolin, a story previously explored in The Silmarillion and Unfinished Tales. It details the divine mission that leads to the downfall of Morgoth and connects to The Lord of the Rings through Tuor's lineage, culminating in Elrond, a key figure in the main saga.

11. The Fall of Númenor

The Fall of Númenor

5$40.00 save 46%$21.54 at Amazon

Published in 2022, The Fall of Númenor compiles stories from The Silmarillion, Unfinished Tales, and The History of Middle-earth, focusing on the Second Age. Edited by Brian Sibley, this collection explores the rise and fall of Númenor, the forging of the Rings of Power, and the rise of Sauron.