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Cover of The Lord of the Rings
Fantasy· United Kingdom

The Lord of the Rings

by J.R.R. Tolkien
Aggregate Editorial Score45/100
BBC Big Read
Published 1954492 pagesEnglish
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About This Book

J.R.R. Tolkien's The Lord of the Rings (1954) stands as one of the most significant works of fantasy of its era. The Fellowship of the Ring—a hobbit, a wizard, elves, dwarves, and men—embarks on a quest to destroy the One Ring and save Middle-earth from the Dark Lord Sauron. Tolkien's epic fantasy, voted the nation's best-loved book in the BBC Big Read, created the template for the modern fantasy genre. Themes of good vs. evil, friendship, journey run through the work. The book has received recognition from BBC Big Read 1954.

Book Details

AuthorJ.R.R. Tolkien
Published1954
Country of Origin🇬🇧 United Kingdom
LanguageEnglish
Pages492
Category🐉 Fantasy
ISBN9780544003415
Editorial Score45/100
About the Category

🐉 Fantasy

Stories set in imaginary worlds with magical or supernatural elements.

Explore all Fantasy books →
Country of Origin

🇬🇧 United Kingdom

This book is part of United Kingdom's rich literary tradition.

Explore books from United Kingdom →

Editorial Assessment

The Lord of the Rings by J.R.R. Tolkien sits within the tradition of fantasy that treats language as seriously as plot. Published in 1954 in United Kingdom, it engages with good vs. evil, friendship, journey, sacrifice in ways that have earned it lasting critical attention. The book's place in the literary record rests on its presence across major prize lists and critical surveys. Among its recognitions: BBC Big Read 1954. Its aggregate editorial score of 45/100 reflects recognition from 1 independent editorial sources, from international prizes to specialist critical journals. The appeal of The Lord of the Rings lies partly in its refusal to offer easy answers. Its exploration of good vs. evil, friendship, journey, sacrifice is sustained, textured, and genuinely thought-provoking in ways that stay with readers well after the final page. The Lord of the Rings reflects J.R.R. Tolkien's place in a wider literary tradition. The book's concerns resonate with United Kingdom's broader cultural preoccupations, even as they reach beyond any single national context.
About this assessment: Editorial scores are aggregated from 1 independent sources including major literary prizes, critical surveys, and leading publications. Our editorial team reviews and contextualises this data. Rankings reflect critical consensus, not personal opinion or popularity metrics. Learn about our methodology.

Awards & Recognition

BBC Big Read
list · national
195417
✍️
About the Author
J.R.R. Tolkien
United Kingdom
View Author →

J.R.R. Tolkien is a celebrated author from United Kingdom known for influential works of fantasy.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is The Lord of the Rings about?

The Fellowship of the Ring—a hobbit, a wizard, elves, dwarves, and men—embarks on a quest to destroy the One Ring and save Middle-earth from the Dark Lord Sauron. Tolkien's epic fantasy, voted the nation's best-loved book in the BBC Big Read, created the template for the modern fantasy genre.

Who wrote The Lord of the Rings?

The Lord of the Rings was written by J.R.R. Tolkien, from United Kingdom. First published in 1954.

What awards has The Lord of the Rings won?

The Lord of the Rings has received the following awards and honours: BBC Big Read 1954.

Is The Lord of the Rings worth reading?

The Lord of the Rings is a book that has earned critical recognition, with an aggregate editorial score of 17/100 on 50 Best Books, based on mentions across 1 editorial source. It is particularly recommended for readers interested in good vs. evil, friendship, journey.

Where can I buy The Lord of the Rings?

You can buy The Lord of the Rings on Amazon. Click the Buy on Amazon button above to find the best edition.

What category is The Lord of the Rings?

The Lord of the Rings is classified as Fantasy. Stories set in imaginary worlds with magical or supernatural elements.

What country is The Lord of the Rings from?

The Lord of the Rings originates from United Kingdom's literary tradition. Explore more books from United Kingdom on our country page.

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