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

Author：Kristen Update：May 18,2025

J.R.R. Tolkien's Lord of the Rings saga is a cornerstone of fantasy literature, inspiring one of the most acclaimed film trilogies of all time. The narrative, centered on the timeless themes of friendship and heroism, continues to captivate audiences. With the second season of "Rings of Power" on the horizon and a new Lord of the Rings movie slated for 2026, there's never been a better time to delve into the expansive world of Middle-earth.

For those new to Tolkien's universe, we've crafted a comprehensive guide on how to read the Middle-earth saga, whether you prefer chronological order or by publication date. So, prepare for an epic journey by settling in with a cozy blanket and a reading lamp.

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 three volumes of "The Lord of the Rings" ("The Fellowship of the Ring," "The Two Towers," and "The Return of the King").

Since Tolkien's passing in 1973, numerous additional collections and companion books have been released. We've highlighted the seven most pertinent ones in our list below.

Lord of the Rings Book Sets

Whether you're embarking on your first journey through the LoTR books or expanding your collection, there are several excellent book sets to consider. Our top pick is the leather-bound illustrated editions, though various styles are available to suit different tastes.

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 Middle-earth works into two sections: the core Lord of the Rings saga and additional reading. The saga, which follows the adventures of Bilbo and Frodo Baggins, is listed in narrative chronology. The additional reading section, featuring works published posthumously, is ordered by publication date.

Our plot summaries are designed to be spoiler-free, focusing on broad plot points and character introductions for those new to the series.

1. The Hobbit

"The Hobbit" marks the beginning of Tolkien's Middle-earth saga both chronologically and by publication date, first released in 1937. It chronicles the journey of Bilbo Baggins, who joins Thorin and Company—a group including Gandalf and 13 dwarves led by Thorin Oakenshield—to reclaim their ancestral home from the dragon Smaug. Along the way, Bilbo encounters Gollum and acquires 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. Originally conceived as a single narrative, it was divided into three volumes for publication. The story begins at Bilbo's 111th birthday, where he passes the One Ring to Frodo. After a 17-year gap, Frodo embarks on his quest to destroy the Ring, forming the Fellowship with companions including Samwise Gamgee, Pippin Took, Merry Brandybuck, Legolas, Gimli, Aragorn, Boromir, and Gandalf. By the end of the volume, Frodo decides to continue alone to Mordor, accompanied only by Sam.

3. The Two Towers

"The Two Towers" continues the saga, with the Fellowship now divided. One group, including Frodo and Sam, presses on toward Mordor, encountering Gollum, while the others confront orcs and the corrupted wizard Saruman.

4. The Return of the King

The final volume, "The Return of the King," brings the Fellowship's quest to a close. The heroes face Sauron's dark forces, and Frodo and Sam complete their mission. After the climax, the hobbits return to the Shire to confront one last adversary, a storyline not included in the film adaptation. The book concludes with the resolution of each character's journey.

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 covers the history of Arda, the world encompassing Middle-earth, from its creation through the Third Age.

6. Unfinished Tales of Númenor and Middle-earth

Unfinished Tales Of Númenor And Middle-Earth

7See it at Amazon

"Unfinished Tales," edited and published by Christopher Tolkien, contains over a dozen stories and histories of Middle-earth, including the origins of the five wizards, the alliance between Gondor and Rohan, and Sauron's search 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," a twelve-volume series published between 1983 and 1996, compiles and analyzes Tolkien's writings on Middle-earth, excluding "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 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. The tale is 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" details the tale of Tuor, sent on a divine mission to Gondolin, leading to the eventual defeat of Morgoth. 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

5$40.00 save 46%$21.54 at Amazon

"The Fall of Númenor," published in 2022, compiles Tolkien's writings on the Second Age, including the rise and fall of Númenor, the forging of the Rings of Power, and the rise of Sauron.