a guide to Tolkien

The Silmarillion Illustrated by the Author (2022)

The Silmarillion Illustrated by Ted Nasmith (2021 Edition)

The Silmarillion (1977)

I: Ainulindalë: The Music of the Ainur

We begin with the Ainulindalë, which is the story of the creation, by Eru, of the spirits known as the Ainur, and the world of Arda, which was to be the scene of all the following tales of the Quenta Silmarillion, The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings.

The Ainulindalë comprises pages 1-10 of The Silmarillion volume.

II: Valaquenta: Account of the Valar and Maiar according to the lore of the Eldar

The Valaquenta describes the pantheon of the Valar (the “Powers”), the lesser spirits called the Maiar, and the enemies which include Melkor (Morgoth), Sauron, and the fire spirits known as Balrogs.

The Valaquenta comprises pages 11-20 of The Silmarillion volume.

III: Quenta Silmarillion: The History of the Silmarils

The Quenta Silmarillion is the history of the First Ages of Arda and tells the story of the Silmaril jewels, wrought by Fëanor, and the War of the Exiled Elves against the great enemy, Morgoth. Several tales of victory and tragedy are caught up in it, but it ends with eucatastrophe, and the passing of the Ancient World.

The Quenta Silmarillion is the main work in The Silmarillion volume and comprises pages 21-244.

For the time being, skip the fourth and fifth parts of The Silmarillion volume - the Akallabêth and Of the Rings of Power and the Third Age. The material found here will be covered in the next book below…

The Fall of Númenor Illustrated by Alan Lee (2022)

The Fall of Númenor and Other Tales from the Second Age of Middle-earth (2022)

Renowned for his statement that the Second Age of Middle-earth was a "dark age" with limited historical accounts, J.R.R. Tolkien left much of its story untold. However, Brian Sibley has taken 'The Tale of Years' from The Lord of the Rings as a foundation for his new book. He has skillfully compiled the scattered published texts into a single volume, presenting, for the first time, the comprehensive narrative of the Second Age. This epoch in Middle-earth's history sets the stage for the events of the Third Age, including the War of the Ring depicted in The Lord of the Rings.

After the introductory pages, read “The Tale of Years (Chronology of the Westlands)” which comprise pages 1-215.

Now skip both Appendix A - A Brief Chronicle of the Third Age of Middle-earth - and Appendix B - The Númenórean Chapters from The Lost Road. You are not yet ready to embark into the Third Age, and The Lost Road material is unnecessary at this time.

The Silmarillion (1977) - IV: Akallabêth

To supplement your reading of the history and downfall of the island nation of Númenor, read now the Akallabëth comprising pages 245-269 of The Silmarillion.

It tells the story of the Downfall of Númenor after the Númenóreans, the descendants of those Men who aided the Elves in their fight against Morgoth during the First Age, turned by degrees against the Valar, and were later corrupted by Sauron. The Akallabêth was written by Elendil near the end of the Second Age and was preserved in Gondor.

It is the official published text of the Númenor story.

The Hobbit Illustrated by Alan Lee (2020 Edition)

The Hobbit (1937)

Now read the text that started it all - The Hobbit.

In a quiet and cozy hole in the ground, Bilbo Baggins, a timid and unassuming hobbit, leads a peaceful life in the Shire. But his world is turned upside down when the wise and enigmatic wizard Gandalf arrives with a band of thirteen boisterous dwarves. They have a daring plan: to reclaim their lost kingdom and treasure from the clutches of the fearsome dragon Smaug.

Reluctantly drawn into their quest, Bilbo embarks on an extraordinary adventure beyond his wildest imagination. From treacherous mountains and mysterious forests to riddle contests with peculiar creatures, he encounters both friend and foe along the way. With danger lurking at every turn, Bilbo must summon untapped reserves of courage and resourcefulness, discovering within himself a hero he never knew existed.

The Lord of the Rings Illustrated by Alan Lee (2020 Edition)

The Lord of the Rings (1954-55)

Now the great text itself - The Lord of the Rings.

I: The Fellowship of the Ring

In a world threatened by darkness, a courageous group embarks on a perilous journey. Frodo Baggins, a humble hobbit, inherits a powerful ring and must undertake a quest to destroy it. Joined by a fellowship of diverse allies, they face unimaginable challenges and forge unbreakable bonds in their quest to save Middle-earth.

II: The Two Towers

As darkness gathers, the battle for Middle-earth intensifies. Separated and tested, the members of the Fellowship face new perils and unexpected alliances. With evil forces growing stronger, their paths converge in a race against time. In 'The Two Towers,' the fate of Middle-earth hangs in the balance.

III: The Return of the King

The final battle for Middle-earth begins. With Sauron's forces on the brink of victory, the shattered Fellowship must rally their strength for one last stand. In 'The Return of the King,' destinies are fulfilled, sacrifices are made, and the fate of all hangs by a thread.

Hutchinson Hardcover Edition (2002)

Bilbo’s Last Song (1974)

Sung by Bilbo as he is about to depart Middle-earth for the West, this poem reflects Bilbo's sentiments and beautifully encapsulates his bittersweet departure and his deep connection to the world he is leaving behind. It serves as a heartfelt conclusion to Bilbo's character arc and resonates with themes of discovery and reflection.

The Silmarillion (1977) - V: Of the Rings of Power and the Third Age

To act as a bowtie to the saga of the Rings of Power, now read the fifth part of The Silmarillion - Of the Rings of Power and the Third, which comprise pages 271-292 of The Silmarillion volume.

This text delves into the history of the Rings of Power, forged by the Elves and the Dark Lord Sauron, and their significance in the Third Age of Middle-earth. It explores the treacherous allure of the Rings, the war against Sauron, and the pivotal events that shaped the fate of the world.

The Lord of the Rings Illustrated by the Author (2021 Edition)

The appendices to The Lord of the Rings are additional sections included at the end of The Return of the King that provide supplementary information about the world of Middle-earth. They expand upon the narrative and offer insights into the history, languages, and cultures of Tolkien's fictional universe.

Appendix A: Annals of the Kings and Rulers

I: The Númenórean Kings

(i) Númenor (Found here is a synopsis of the events of The Silmarillion, focusing especially on the Akallabêth)
(ii) The Realms in Exile (This is a list of the kings of Arnor and Gondor, including the Chieftains of the Dúnedain and the Ruling Stewards of Gondor.)
(iii) Eriador, Arnor, and the Heirs of Isildur (Here will be found the history of the Northern Kingdom, through the time of Aragorn II)
(iv) Gondor and the Heirs of Anarion (Here is the history of Gondor, including a few details of the lives of Denethor II, Boromir, and Faramir.)
(v) Here Follows a Part of the Tale of Aragorn and Arwen (This text traces the love story of that couple, including their final fates.)

II: The House of Eorl (Here is recounted the history of Rohan.)

III: Durin's Folk (This text focuses on the Dwarves of that line. Some of the events leading up to the Quest of Erebor are given. This section contains a family tree of Durin, including some details about Gimli.)

Appendix B: The Tale of Years (Chronology of the Westlands)

The Second Age (It covers the major events of the little-documented Second Age, concerning Númenor and the Rings of Power.)

The Third Age (It covers the years 2 - 3017 of the Third Age, focusing mainly on events in Arnor, Gondor, and The Shire.)

The Great Years (It covers specific dates for particular events of the time period of The Lord of the Rings (the years 3018 and 3019); it begins with Gandalf's return to Hobbiton and concludes with the destruction of the Ring. This section also gives a brief account of the battles of the Northern campaign during the War of the Ring that are not mentioned in the main book.)

The Lord of the Rings (2005 50th Anniversary Edition)

The Chief Days from the Fall of Barad-dur to the End of the Third Age (It finishes the events of The Lord of the Rings, giving specific dates up through Sam's return to Bag End.)

Later Events Concerning the Members of the Fellowship of the Ring (It gives a chronology of the early Fourth Age (although dates are given in the Shire-reckoning, and primarily follow what happened with the hobbits). The last entry tells the final fate of Aragorn, Legolas, and Gimli.)

Appendix C: Family Trees

This section provides genealogical charts for the lineages of the Hobbits.

Appendix D: Calendars

This section explains the different calendars used in Middle-earth, including the Shire-reckoning, the Kings' Reckoning, and the Stewards' Reckoning. It also provides conversion tables for the various calendars.

Appendix E: Writing and Spelling

I: Pronunciation of Words and Names
II: Writing

(These sections outline how to pronounce particular sounds in the languages of Middle-earth, and also offer accounts of the writing systems, including the Tengwar script and the Cirth runes.)

Appendix F:

I: The Languages and Peoples of Middle-earth (This section provides additional information about the languages spoken by the various peoples of Middle-earth, including Elvish, Dwarvish, and Mannish languages. It includes sample phrases and explanations of the linguistic relationships.)

II: On Translation (Included here is a commentary on some of the difficulties of translating all the languages into modern English for today's readers.)

Now we turn our attention to the 1980 publication, Unfinished Tales of Númenor and Middle-earth. But, it is necessary to skip Part I and most of Part II, as that content will be dealt with elsewhere down the road.

The Appendices to The Lord of the Rings (1955)

Unfinished Tales of Númenor and Middle-earth Illustrated by Alan Lee, John Howe and Ted Nasmith (2020 Edition)

Part II: The Second Age - IV: The History of Galadriel and Celeborn, and of Amroth King of Lórien

This chapter is not actually a "history", but a selection of texts in which Tolkien tried to develop the stories of the Elven realms of the Second Age and the place of Galadriel, Celeborn, and Amroth among them. The text comprises pages 247-286.

Part III: The Third Age - I: The Disaster of the Gladden Fields

This text tells the story of Isildur’s death and the loss of the Ring in year 2 of the Third Age and how the story was preserved through Gondor through the years. The story comprises pages 289-306.

Part III: The Third Age - II: Cirion and Eorl and the Friendship of Gondor and Rohan

(i) The Northman and the Wainriders
(ii) The Ride of Eorl
(iii) Cirion and Eorl
(iv) The Tradition of Isildur

This text tells of the origins of the alliance between Gondor and Rohan. In the face of the Balchoth threat, Cirion, the steward of Gondor, sends a message seeking aid from Eorl, the leader of the Éothéod. Eorl and his riders swiftly come to Gondor's aid, turning the tide of battle. Impressed by Eorl's valor, Cirion grants him the land of Calenardhon, which becomes Rohan, cementing the friendship and alliance between the two realms. These stories comprise pages 307-339.

Part III: The Third Age - III: The Quest of Erebor

This work explains how and why Gandalf arranged for the retaking of the Lonely Mountain (Erebor in Sindarin). This text comprises pages 340-356.

Part III: The Third Age - IV: The Hunt for the Ring

This text reveals the covert efforts undertaken by various individuals and groups in Middle-earth to find the One Ring, which had been lost for centuries. It describes the actions of the Nazgûl, Sauron's dreaded Ringwraiths, as they scour the land in search of the Ring's bearer, Frodo Baggins. The text also reveals the endeavors of Gandalf the Wizard, Aragorn, and other members of the White Council, who attempt to gather information and thwart the efforts of Sauron's servants. This text comprises pages 357-375.

Part III: The Third Age - V: The Battles of the Fords of Isen

This text provides an account of a crucial time in Rohan during the War of the Ring before the arrival of Gandalf, Aragorn, Legolas, and Gimli in Edoras. It specifically focuses on the initial and subsequent assaults on the vital Isen river crossing. These attacks resulted in the death of King Théoden's son, Théodred, and set the stage for the imminent siege on the Hornburg, the stronghold of Rohan. This story comprises pages 376-395.

Part IV: I. The Drúedain

This essay explores the mysterious race of the Drúedain, known as the Woses or the Wild Men of the Woods. It highlights their physical characteristics, their historical alliances with other peoples of Middle-earth, and their eventual withdrawal from the affairs of the land. The text offers a glimpse into the enigmatic nature of the Drúedain and their dwindling presence over time. This essay comprises pages 399-410.

Part IV: II. The Istari

This essay details the arrival and mission of the Istari, a group of powerful wizards, sent to Middle-earth to aid in the fight against Sauron. It discusses their origins as angelic spirits, their purpose to inspire and guide, and their roles in the events leading up to the War of the Ring. This essay comprises pages 411-426.

Part IV: III. The Palantíri

This third and final essay focuses on the magical seeing stones known as the Palantíri and explores their creation, distribution, and usage throughout Middle-earth. It describes the abilities of the Palantíri to communicate across vast distances and their significance in shaping the course of events, including their role in the downfall of Gondor. This essay comprises pages 427-439.

Unfinished Tales of Númenor and Middle-earth (1980)

Unfinished Tales of Númenor and Middle-earth (1980 First Edition)

STOP
This is where the guide to the essential works of J.R.R. Tolkien ends. However, if you would like to dig deeper into the great stories of Middle-earth, continue on…

The Children of Húrin (2007)

The main text of this book had been previously published as “Narn i Hîn Húrin” in Unfinished Tales, here edited by Christopher Tolkien to form a consistent narrative as an independent work. It is an expanded version of the story first told in The Silmarillion.

Beren and Lúthien (2017)

This book is a collection of writings, edited by Christopher Tolkien to comprise a single book. It contains the various versions of the story of Lúthien and Beren previously published throughout the volumes of The History of Middle-earth.

The Fall of Gondolin (2018)

This book is a compilation of texts edited by Christopher Tolkien that brings all the extant texts of the story of The Fall of Gondolin into one volume.

The Great Tales of Middle-earth (2007-2018)

STOP
Continuing on means you are an absolute die-hard Tolkien fan and cannot rest until you have consumed every bit of information pertaining to his works — the following is not for the faint of heart…

The Book of Lost Tales: Part I (1983)

This first volume showcases the earliest versions of J.R.R. Tolkien's mythology and introduces the world of Middle-earth through tales told to a mariner named Eriol by the Elves. It includes the creation myth, the arrival of the Elves, and stories about the Sun, Moon, and other mythical events. It provides a foundation for the later development of Middle-earth and offers insights into Tolkien's creative process.

The Shaping of Middle-earth (1986)

The fourth volume details the gradual progression from the earlier "primitive" mythology found in "The Book of Lost Tales" to the eventual formation of The Silmarillion. It includes the "Sketch of the Mythology," which can be seen as an early version of the "Silmarillion" itself. The book also features the Ambarkanta, a compilation of maps and diagrams depicting Tolkien's envisioned world. Additionally, it presents the Annals of Valinor and Beleriand, originally conceived as timelines but developed into complete narratives over time.

The Treason of Isengard (1989)

The seventh volume continues the exploration of the creation of The Lord of the Rings, including additional many scenes never before read. The narrative explores the expansion of the story into new lands, introducing Lothlórien, Ents, the Riders of Rohan, and Saruman in Isengard. It showcases early drafts featuring Galadriel, the history of Gondor, and the original meeting of Aragorn and Éowyn. The book also provides a detailed account of the original map that shaped Middle-earth's geography. It offers valuable insights into the creative process and the development of key elements in Tolkien's masterpiece.

Morgoth’s Ring (1993)

After completing The Lord of the Rings, J.R.R. Tolkien returned to the "Matter of the Elder Days." The book explores the full text of The Annals of Aman, providing a detailed account of the Blessed Land in the West. Additionally, previously unknown writings reveal the challenges Tolkien encountered in his later years. New and groundbreaking ideas emerged, challenging the existing narratives and reshaping the core mythology. The destinies of Men and Elves, the dichotomy between mortals and immortals, and a heightened understanding of the malevolence of Melkor, the Shadow upon Arda, take center stage. The second part of the book delves into the evolving legends of Beleriand after the conclusion of The Lord of the Rings. It offers insights into the developments that occurred in the later Silmarillion.

The Book of Lost Tales: Part II (1984)

The second volume expands on the early mythology with new tales told by the Elves to the mariner Eriol. The stories include Beren and Tinúviel's love story, Turambar's heroic quest, and the tragic fall of the Elven city of Gondolin. It provides further insights into Tolkien's evolving mythology and the development of key characters and locations in Middle-earth.

The Lost Road and Other Writings (1987)

The fifth volume explores early myths and legends that influenced J.R.R. Tolkien's epic tale, The Silmarillion. The volume covers the period when Tolkien began writing The Lord of the Rings and includes later versions of the Annals of Valinor and Beleriand. It discusses the expanded Silmarillion, the legend of Númenor's downfall, the "time-travel" story "The Lost Road," and features "The Lhammas" essay on languages and an Elvish vocabulary. It offers insights into the evolution of Tolkien's mythology, connections between eras, and linguistic aspects of Middle-earth.

The War of the Ring (1990)

The eighth volume covers significant events such as the Battle of Helm's Deep, the flooding of Isengard by the Ents, Frodo, Sam, and Gollum's journey to the Pass of Cirith Ungol, the war in Gondor, and the parley between Gandalf and the ambassador of the Dark Lord at the Black Gate of Mordor. The book is enhanced with illustrations showcasing evolving concepts of locations like Orthanc, Dunharrow, Minas Tirith, and the tunnels of Shelob's Lair. Through its detailed exploration of these events and the accompanying visuals, the book provides readers with a deeper understanding of the epic tale and its evolving world.

The War of the Jewels (1994)

The eleventh volume continues Christopher Tolkien's exploration of the later history of The Silmarillion. It depicts the ruinous conflict between the High Elves, their human allies, and the Dark Lord in Middle-earth. This book includes J.R.R. Tolkien's later narrative writings, completing the extensive history of The Silmarillion from its beginnings in "The Book of Lost Tales." It features The Grey Annals, the primary record of “The War of the Jewels,” and unveils a previously unpublished tale of tragedy involving the forest-dwelling people of Brethil and Hurin the Steadfast. These materials provide valuable insights into Tolkien's work and offer a deeper understanding of the enigmatic state of The Silmarillion at the time of his death.

The Lays of Beleriand (1985)

This third volume contains J.R.R. Tolkien's epic poems and lays, including the renowned "Lay of Leithian" about Beren and Lúthien's quest. The book also features poems on the tragic stories of Túrin Turambar and the fall of Gondolin. It showcases Tolkien's poetic prowess and adds depth to Middle-earth's mythology.

The Return of the Shadow (1988)

This sixth volume features a captivating exploration of the early stages of the creation of The Lord of the Rings. We witness the transformation of Bilbo's magical ring into the perilous Ruling Ring of the Dark Lord. It reveals the unexpected moment when a Black Rider first enters the peaceful Shire. The character known as Trotter (later known as Strider or Aragorn) is introduced, and Frodo's companions undergo various changes in their names and personalities throughout the narrative. This book provides valuable insights into the evolution of the story's plot, characters, and the early development of key elements that would shape the epic tale.

Sauron Defeated (1992)

This ninth volume completes Christopher Tolkien’s comprehensive study of The Lord of the Rings. The first section covers significant events, starting with Sam rescuing Frodo from the Tower of Cirith Ungol. It presents a different account of the Scouring of the Shire and concludes with unpublished versions of the Epilogue, where Sam, years later, tries to answer his children's inquiries. The second section features "The Notion Club Papers," which were discovered in the early 21st century. These papers detail the discussions held by an Oxford club in 1986-1987. While the topics vary initially, the focus later shifts to the legend of Atlantis, the peculiar communications received from the past by club members, and the sudden appearance of the legend in northwestern Europe, resulting in violent disruptions.

The Peoples of Middle-earth (1996)

The twelve and last volume explores the development of the Appendices to The Lord of the Rings, which provide a detailed historical framework for the Second and Third Ages. These appendices encompass various elements such as calendars, Hobbit genealogies, and the Westron language. The book also presents two remarkable abandoned stories: "The New Shadow," which takes place in Gondor during the Fourth Age, and the tale of Tal-Elmar, offering a perspective on the arrival of Númenórean ships during the Dark Years from the viewpoint of the people of Middle-earth. In this book, the extensive history of J.R.R. Tolkien's creation is brought to completion, providing a deeper understanding of the enigmatic state of his work.

The History of Middle-earth (1983-1996)

Christopher Tolkien's monumental work, The History of Middle-earth, is a comprehensive series that delves into the creative process, evolution, and development of J.R.R. Tolkien's legendarium. The series consists of twelve volumes, each focusing on a different aspect of the mythology and showcasing the extensive notes, drafts, and revisions made by Tolkien over several decades.

HarperCollins hardcover (2021)

The Nature of Middle-earth (2021)

This book presents J.R.R. Tolkien's final collection of unpublished writings on Middle-earth. It encompasses a wide range of subjects, exploring both the metaphysical and natural/historical aspects of this beloved world. With a focus on Middle-earth's nature and Tolkien's own views, this book is a must-read for fans, readers, and scholars seeking deeper insights. It complements Unfinished Tales and The History of Middle-earth series, serving as an unofficial fourteenth volume. Of particular interest are texts that delve into the lands, flora, fauna, and lives of Númenor and its people, making it a captivating read.