Here is The Ultimate Middle-Earth Reading Guide for you to get started on your journey into Middle-Earth!
J.R.R. Tolkien‘s Middle-earth is one of the most beloved and influential fictional worlds ever created. From The Hobbit to The Lord of the Rings to The Silmarillion, Tolkien’s books have captured the imaginations of generations of readers. But with so many books, where do you start? In this ultimate Middle-earth reading guide, we’ll provide a comprehensive list of all Tolkien and related books in a sensible reading order.
The Hobbit
We recommend starting with The Hobbit, which tells the story of Bilbo Baggins, a hobbit who goes on an unexpected adventure with a group of dwarves and the wizard Gandalf. This book serves as an excellent introduction to Middle-earth and sets the stage for the events of The Lord of the Rings.
The Lord of the Rings
Next up is The Lord of the Rings, which is often considered Tolkien’s masterpiece. This epic trilogy tells the story of Frodo Baggins and his quest to destroy the One Ring, an ancient artifact that has the power to enslave the entire world. Along the way, Frodo and his companions encounter a variety of memorable characters and face countless challenges. The Lord of the Rings is a must-read for any fan of fantasy literature.
The Silmarillion
The Silmarillion is a collection of Tolkien’s earlier works, including stories that were written before The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings. The book provides a comprehensive history of Middle-earth, from its creation to the events leading up to The Lord of the Rings. While The Silmarillion can be dense and challenging at times, it is an essential read for those who want to delve deeper into the lore of Middle-earth.
Unfinished Tales
Unfinished Tales is a collection of stories and essays by Tolkien that were left unfinished at the time of his death. The book provides additional context and backstory for many of the events and characters in The Lord of the Rings and The Silmarillion.
The Children of Hurin
The Children of Hurin is a standalone novel set in Middle-earth. The book tells the tragic story of Turin Turambar, a hero cursed with a terrible fate. While The Children of Hurin can be read on its own, it provides additional context for many of the events and characters in The Silmarillion.
Beren and Luthien
Beren and Luthien is another standalone novel set in Middle-earth. The book tells the story of Beren, a mortal man, and Luthien, an elf princess, who fall in love and go on a quest to recover a Silmaril, a powerful gem created by the elves. Beren and Luthien is a beautiful and poignant love story that provides additional context for many of the events and characters in The Silmarillion.
The Fall of Gondolin
The Fall of Gondolin is the latest standalone novel set in Middle-earth. The book tells the story of Tuor, a mortal man, who seeks out the hidden city of Gondolin and becomes embroiled in a conflict between the elves and the evil Morgoth. The Fall of Gondolin provides additional context for the events leading up to The Lord of the Rings.
The Fall of Númenor
The Fall of Númenor is a newly published fantasy work edited by Brian Sibley, which compiles all of J.R.R. Tolkien’s Second Age writings. The book covers the foundation of Númenor, the forging of the Rings of Power, and the Last Alliance against Sauron, and includes new introductions and commentaries by the editor to bring Tolkien’s writings together.
Conclusion
There you have it, the ultimate Middle-earth reading guide. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or a newcomer to Tolkien’s world, these books are sure to provide hours of enjoyment and wonder. So grab a copy of The Hobbit and start your journey through Middle-earth today!
