How to Read The Lord of the Rings Books in Order

J.R.R. Tolkien's Lord of the Rings saga is a cornerstone of fantasy literature, inspiring one of cinema's greatest trilogies. Tolkien's epic tale of good versus evil explores timeless themes of friendship and heroism. With The Rings of Power entering its second season and a new Lord of the Rings film slated for 2026, there's never been a better time to delve into the rich history of Middle-earth.

For newcomers to Tolkien's Middle-earth (and its companion works), this guide outlines reading orders—chronological and by publication date. Gather your blankets, dim the lights, and prepare for an unforgettable adventure.

How Many Lord of the Rings Books Are There?

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, Return of the King). Numerous companion books and collections have been published posthumously (since 1973), seven of which are highlighted below.

Lord of the Rings Book Sets

Whether you're a first-time reader or a seasoned collector, several excellent book sets are available. We particularly recommend the leather-bound illustrated editions, though many styles exist.

Lord of the Rings Reading Order

This guide divides Tolkien's Middle-earth works into two sections: the core Lord of the Rings saga and supplementary readings. The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings follow Bilbo and Frodo Baggins' journeys and are ordered chronologically. Supplementary works, published after Tolkien's death, are listed by publication date. Plot summaries below contain only minor spoilers.

1. The Hobbit

Chronologically and by release date (1937), The Hobbit is Tolkien's first Middle-earth book. It follows Bilbo Baggins, Gandalf, and thirteen dwarves led by Thorin Oakenshield as they reclaim the dwarves' ancestral home from Smaug the dragon. The story introduces Gollum and reveals Bilbo's acquisition of the One Ring, culminating in the Battle of Five Armies.

2. The Fellowship of the Ring

Published nearly two decades after The Hobbit, this begins on Bilbo's 111th birthday, where he bequeaths the One Ring to Frodo. Unlike the film, a 17-year gap exists before Frodo's adventure begins. Gandalf urges Frodo to leave the Shire, leading to the formation of the Fellowship—Frodo, Samwise Gamgee, Pippin Took, Merry Brandybuck, Legolas, Gimli, Aragorn, Boromir, and Gandalf—tasked with destroying the One Ring in Mordor. The Fellowship faces betrayal, and Frodo, accompanied by Sam, sets off towards Mordor.

3. The Two Towers

Continuing the Fellowship's journey, the story now follows two separate parties: Frodo and Sam, and the remaining members. One group confronts orcs and Saruman, while Frodo and Sam encounter Gollum and continue their perilous quest.

4. The Return of the King

The final volume concludes the Fellowship's journey, culminating in battles against Sauron's armies. Sam and Frodo complete their mission, and the hobbits face a final adversary in the Shire (a scene absent from the films). The fates of the characters are revealed, bringing Frodo's journey to a close.

Additional Lord of the Rings Reading

5. The Silmarillion

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Published in 1973, The Silmarillion is a legendarium of Arda, the world encompassing Middle-earth. Edited by Christopher Tolkien, it covers Arda's history from creation through the Third Age (the setting of The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings).

6. Unfinished Tales of Númenor and Middle-earth

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Another collection edited by Christopher Tolkien, this book contains stories on the origins of the wizards, the Gondor-Rohan alliance, Gandalf's role in The Hobbit, and Sauron's pre-Lord of the Rings search for the One Ring.

7. The History of Middle-earth

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A twelve-volume series (1983-1996) edited by Christopher Tolkien, compiling and analyzing The Lord of the Rings, The Silmarillion, and other writings. The History of The Hobbit (edited by John D. Rateliff, 2007) covers The Hobbit.

8. The Children of Húrin

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A complete version of a story from The Silmarillion, set during the First Age, telling the tragic tale of Húrin Thalion and his children.

9. Beren and Lúthien

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A First Age love story, compiled from various versions by Christopher Tolkien, said to be inspired by Tolkien's relationship with his wife.

10. The Fall of Gondolin

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The complete version of a tale from The Silmarillion and Unfinished Tales, telling the story of Tuor and his connection to The Lord of the Rings.

11. The Fall of Númenor

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Published in 2022, this collection, edited by Brian Sibley, covers the Second Age, including the rise and fall of Númenor, the Rings of Power, and the Last Alliance.

Reading Order by Publication 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)