J.R.R. Tolkien's Lord of the Rings saga is a cornerstone of fantasy literature, inspiring one of the greatest film trilogies of all time. At its heart, Tolkien's epic tale explores timeless themes of good versus evil, friendship, and heroism. With the launch of Season 2 of Rings of Power and the announcement of a new Lord of the Rings movie slated for 2026, there's never been a better time to delve into the rich tapestry of Middle-earth.
For those yet to embark on this legendary journey, we've crafted a comprehensive guide on how to read the books, whether you prefer chronological order or by their release dates. So, cozy up, dim the lights, and prepare for 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 books: The Hobbit, and the three volumes of The Lord of the Rings—Fellowship of the Ring, Two Towers, and Return of the King.
Since Tolkien's passing in 1973, numerous companion books and collections have been published. Below, we've listed seven of the most significant additions.
Lord of the Rings Book Sets
Whether you're a first-time reader or looking to expand your collection, there are several outstanding book sets available. Our top pick is the luxurious leather-bound illustrated editions, though many other styles cater to different tastes.
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 Middle-earth works into two categories: The Lord of the Rings saga and additional reading materials. The Hobbit and the LotR books follow the adventures of Bilbo and Frodo Baggins, listed according to their narrative chronology. The additional reading section includes works published posthumously, arranged by their publication dates.
For new readers, we've included brief plot summaries that avoid major spoilers, focusing instead on broad plot points and character introductions.
1. The Hobbit
The Hobbit marks the beginning of Tolkien's Middle-earth journey, both in-universe and by its 1937 publication date. This tale introduces Bilbo Baggins, who joins Thorin and Company—a group of dwarves led by Thorin Oakenshield, along with Gandalf—to reclaim their ancestral home from the dragon Smaug. Along the way, Bilbo encounters Gollum and acquires the One Ring, leading to the climactic Battle of Five Armies.
2. The Fellowship of the Ring
Published nearly two decades after The Hobbit, The Fellowship of the Ring launches the epic tale of The Lord of the Rings. The story begins at Bilbo’s 111th birthday party, where he passes the One Ring to Frodo. After a 17-year gap, Gandalf prompts Frodo to leave the Shire, embarking on a quest to destroy the Ring. Joined by a diverse group forming the Fellowship, they set out for Mount Doom in Mordor. By the book's end, Frodo faces betrayal and continues with the loyal Samwise.
3. The Two Towers
The Two Towers continues the saga, splitting the Fellowship into two groups: Frodo and Sam on one path, and the others confronting orcs and the corrupted wizard Saruman. Frodo and Sam, with Gollum as their guide, push onward toward Mordor.
4. The Return of the King
In the final volume, the quest reaches its climax as the heroes battle Sauron’s forces while Sam and Frodo strive to complete their mission. After the main conflict, the hobbits return to the Shire for one last confrontation, omitted from the film. We witness the conclusion of each character's journey as Frodo's adventure comes to an end.
Additional LotR Reading
5. The Silmarillion
The Silmarillion
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Published posthumously in 1977, The Silmarillion is a collection of stories detailing 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
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Unfinished Tales, edited by Christopher Tolkien, compiles various stories and histories of Middle-earth, including the origins of the wizards, the alliance between Gondor and Rohan, and Sauron’s hunt 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, provides a detailed analysis of The Lord of the Rings, The Silmarillion, and other writings. Note that The History of The Hobbit, edited by John D. Rateliff, was published in 2007 and covers analyses of The Hobbit.
8. The Children of Húrin
The Children of Hurin
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The Children of Húrin expands on the story of Of Túrin Turambar from The Silmarillion, set during the First Age. It delves into the tragic tale of Húrin and his children, Túrin and Nienor, amidst their defiance of Morgoth.
9. Beren and Lúthien
Beren And Lúthien
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Beren and Lúthien, inspired by Tolkien's love story with his wife Edith, follows the romantic and adventurous journey of the mortal Beren and the immortal Elf Lúthien during the First Age.
10. The Fall of Gondolin
The Fall Of Gondolin
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The Fall of Gondolin details the divine quest of Tuor to the city of Gondolin, leading to the eventual defeat of Morgoth. This tale connects to The Lord of the Rings through Tuor's son, Eärendil, who fathers Elrond.
11. The Fall of Númenor
The Fall of Númenor
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Published in 2022, The Fall of Númenor compiles stories related to the Second Age, including the rise and fall of Númenor, the forging of the Rings of Power, 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
