J. R. R. Tolkien

J. R. R. Tolkien was an English writer, poet, philologist, and academic, best known for his high fantasy works 'The Hobbit' and 'The Lord of the Rings'. Born on January 3, 1892, in Bloemfontein, South Africa, he served as a professor of Anglo-Saxon at Oxford University. His works have had a profound impact on fantasy literature and established many of the genre's tropes. Tolkien passed away on September 2, 1973, in Bournemouth, England.

Books

This list of books are ONLY the books that have been ranked on the lists that are aggregated on this site. This is not a comprehensive list of all books by this author.

  1. 1. The Lord of the Rings

    This epic high-fantasy novel centers around a modest hobbit who is entrusted with the task of destroying a powerful ring that could enable the dark lord to conquer the world. Accompanied by a diverse group of companions, the hobbit embarks on a perilous journey across Middle-earth, battling evil forces and facing numerous challenges. The narrative, rich in mythology and complex themes of good versus evil, friendship, and heroism, has had a profound influence on the fantasy genre.

  2. 2. The Hobbit

    In this fantasy novel, a timid and unadventurous hobbit named Bilbo Baggins is whisked away on a grand adventure by a wizard and a group of dwarves. Their mission is to reclaim the dwarves' homeland and treasure from a fearsome dragon. Throughout the journey, Bilbo grows in courage and cunning, proving himself a true hero as he encounters trolls, goblins, giant spiders, and other perils. The novel culminates with a great battle involving various races of Middle Earth, after which Bilbo returns home, forever changed by his experiences.

  3. 3. The Silmarillion

    The book is a collection of mythopoeic stories that form the prelude to a well-known fantasy saga, detailing the creation of the world and the history of its early ages. It encompasses the tragic tale of the quest for the titular jewels, which imbue their creators with great power and beauty. The narrative follows the rebellion of a group of elves against the gods, the subsequent wars and the downfall of noble houses, interwoven with themes of heroism, fate, and the struggle against the ultimate evil. The work is rich with languages, cultures, and epic poetry, setting the stage for the later adventures in the renowned fantasy realm.

  4. 4. Unfinished Tales

    "Unfinished Tales" is a collection of stories and essays by J.R.R. Tolkien, compiled and edited by his son Christopher Tolkien. The book includes tales from Middle-earth that were left incomplete or unpublished during the author's lifetime, as well as background information and notes on the creation of his fictional world. The stories range from the early days of Middle-earth to the events leading up to "The Lord of the Rings," providing fans with a deeper understanding of Tolkien's complex and intricate mythology.