FallenKingdomReads’ Beginner’s Guide to The Lord of the Rings by J.R.R. Tolkien
We also have a Reading Guide for all of Tolkien’s Books in Order if that’s what you’re looking for!
The Lord of the Rings is a fantasy novel series written by J.R.R. Tolkien. It is one of the most popular and beloved works of fantasy literature in the world, having sold over 150 million copies worldwide. The story has been adapted into a series of award-winning films directed by Peter Jackson. The books are set in Middle-earth, a fictional world created by Tolkien that is inhabited by various creatures such as hobbits, elves, dwarves, and orcs.
Who is J.R.R. Tolkien?
J.R.R. Tolkien was an English writer, poet, and academic who was born in 1892 and died in 1973. He is best known for his works of high fantasy, including The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit. Tolkien was a professor of Anglo-Saxon at Oxford University and had a passion for languages, which is reflected in the detailed and intricate languages he created for Middle-earth.
What to Expect from the Books
The Lord of the Rings is a trilogy consisting of three books: The Fellowship of the Ring, The Two Towers, and The Return of the King. The story follows the hobbit Frodo Baggins as he embarks on a perilous journey to destroy the One Ring, a powerful artifact that has the power to enslave all of Middle-earth. Along the way, he is joined by a fellowship of characters, including Gandalf the wizard, Aragorn the ranger, Legolas the elf, and Gimli the dwarf. The books are known for their epic battles, complex characters, and intricate world-building.
Books in Publication Order
The Lord of the Rings books were originally published in the following order:
- The Fellowship of the Ring (1954)
- The Two Towers (1954)
- The Return of the King (1955)
In addition to The Lord of the Rings trilogy, Tolkien also wrote other books set in Middle-earth, including The Hobbit (1937), The Silmarillion (1977), and Unfinished Tales (1980). These books provide additional context and detail for the world of Middle-earth.
Film Adaptations:
The Lord of the Rings books have been adapted into a series of award-winning films directed by Peter Jackson. The films were released in three parts, with The Fellowship of the Ring (2001), The Two Towers (2002), and The Return of the King (2003). The films were critically acclaimed and won a total of 17 Academy Awards. In addition, The Hobbit, a prequel to The Lord of the Rings, was also adapted into a trilogy of films directed by Peter Jackson, released between 2012 and 2014.
Conclusion
The Lord of the Rings is a timeless classic that has captivated readers and viewers for decades. Whether you are a longtime fan of the books or are just starting to explore the world of Middle-earth, there is something for everyone in this epic tale of adventure and heroism. With its memorable characters, intricate world-building, and stunning visuals, The Lord of the Rings is sure to continue to enchant audiences for generations to come.
