How to Read The Lord of the Rings Books in Order: A Chronological Guide to Tolkien’s Works

Embarking on a journey through Middle-earth, crafted by the legendary J.R.R. Tolkien, is like a rite of passage for fans of fantasy. But with many books and publications set in the universe, it can be challenging for new readers to know where to start.

So here’s how to navigate the vast and intricate world of The Lord of the Rings books, offering a path that considers both publication order and chronological storytelling.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Explore Middle-earth through chronological or publication order based on preference.

Tolkien's series is praised for its rich lore and complex characters and has a global fanbase.

The series' successful film adaptations have introduced Tolkien's epic saga to a broader audience.

The Lord of the Rings: Chronological Reading Order

For those who wish to experience the story as it unfolds in the timeline of Middle-earth, this order dives deep into the lore from the very beginning:

• The Silmarillion (1977): Start with the universe’s creation and Middle-earth’s early events.
• The Children of Hurin (2007): Follows the tragic tale of Húrin’s children, Túrin and Niënor.
• Beren and Lúthien (2017): The epic love story of a mortal man and an elf maiden.
• The Fall of Gondolin (2018): Details the destruction of the hidden city of Gondolin.
• Unfinished Tales (1980): Provides deeper insight into the characters and events from The Silmarillion to The Lord of the Rings.
• The Hobbit (1937): The adventure of Bilbo Baggins that sets the stage for the epic trilogy.
• The Lord of the Rings (1954-1955): The trilogy that forms the core of Tolkien’s work, consisting of The Fellowship of the Ring, The Two Towers, and The Return of the King​​​​.

The Lord of the Rings: Publication Reading Order

For those interested in the order in which Tolkien published his works, here’s how the world of Middle-earth was revealed to readers:

• The Hobbit (1937)

• The Lord of the Rings Trilogy:

• The Fellowship of the Ring (1954)
• The Two Towers (1954)
• The Return of the King (1955)

• The Adventures of Tom Bombadil (1962): A collection of poetry.

• The Silmarillion (1977)

• Unfinished Tales (1980)

• The History of Middle-earth (1983-1996): A 12-volume series edited by Christopher Tolkien exploring the extensive background of Middle-earth​​.

Additional Reading: The History of Middle-earth

For the avid Tolkien enthusiast, The History of Middle-earth series presents a comprehensive exploration of Middle-earth lore, characters, and events.

This is based on J.R.R. Tolkien’s notes and drafts and is compiled and edited by his son, Christopher Tolkien:

1. The Book of Lost Tales, Part I
2. The Book of Lost Tales, Part II
3. The Lays of Beleriand
4. The Shaping of Middle-earth
5. The Lost Road and Other Writings
6. The Return of the Shadow
7. The Treason of Isengard
8. The War of the Ring
9. Sauron Defeated
10. Morgoth’s Ring
11. The War of the Jewels
12. The Peoples of Middle-earth.

What Is the Best Order to Read The Lord of the Rings?

There’s no one-size-fits-all way to enjoy Tolkien’s Middle-earth. Whether you choose the chronological path to delve into the ancient history of the world, follow the publication order to experience the story as it was first revealed, or mix and match based on your interests, you’re in for an unforgettable journey.

Remember, there is no real fantastic white-and-black way to read the Lord of the Rings Canon, as preferences vary from reader to reader. Whether you’re diving into Tolkien’s world for the first time or revisiting it, choose the path that most appeals to you​​.