For enthusiasts of J.R.R. Tolkien`s legendary world, “The Complete History of Middle-earth” offers an unparalleled deep dive into the origins and lore of his creation. This substantial hardcover collection, spanning 5,440 pages across three books, compiles all 12 volumes of Tolkien`s posthumously published series, providing an exhaustive look at his intricate legendarium.
Beyond the complete collection, several distinct 2024 hardcover box sets are also available, which group volumes from “The History of Middle-earth” along with “The Silmarillion”.
The Complete History of Middle-earth Collection
“The Complete History of Middle-earth” collection, originally published in 2020, is noted for its quality presentation. Each volume is protected by a dust jacket and housed within a custom display case featuring a distinctive Tolkien logo. This series is an extensive compilation drawn from Tolkien`s vast legendarium—a monumental collection of backstories, lore, and personal notes detailing Middle-earth`s millennia-long history. The original 12 volumes were compiled and edited by Christopher Tolkien, the author`s son and literary executor, between 1983 and 1996.
The 12 Volumes in Chronological Order:
- Book of Lost Tales, Part I
- Book of Lost Tales, Part II
- The Lays of Beleriand
- The Shaping of Middle-earth
- The Lost Road and Other Writings
- The Return of the Shadow
- The Treason of Isengard
- The War of the Ring
- Sauron Defeated
- Morgoth`s Ring
- The War of the Jewels
- The Peoples of Middle-earth
Comprising 5,440 pages in total, this three-book set is likely one of the most substantial additions to any Tolkien fan`s library. While individual volumes were also released, the box set provides a cohesive collection.
The History of Middle-earth 2024 Box Sets
- Box Set 1 (4 Books)
- Box Set 2 (3 Books)
- Box Set 3 (4 Books)
- Box Set 4 (4 Books)
While “The Complete History of Middle-earth” offers all 12 volumes in a single collection, the 2024 box sets present an appealing alternative. These editions boast stunning, fully illustrated dust jackets and coordinating display cases. For those who prefer a classic aesthetic, the reversible dust jackets offer the original graphics on solid-color backgrounds. These four sets collectively contain all 12 volumes of “The History of Middle-earth,” along with additional works. Publisher William Morrow thoughtfully included “The Silmarillion” as the inaugural book in Box Set 1. Often associated with “The History of Middle-earth” due to its foundational lore and the inclusion of its early drafts within the 12-volume series, “The Silmarillion” stands as one of Tolkien`s most celebrated works, alongside “The Lord of the Rings” and “The Hobbit.” Box Set 1 further enhances the collection with “Unfinished Tales,” and the final set is complemented by a comprehensive book-length index.
Further Tolkien Collections
William Morrow has also expanded its line of decorative Tolkien hardcover box sets. Notable additions include “Tolkien Myths and Legends,” a four-book set, and “The Great Tales of Middle-earth,” which brings together Tolkien`s final three novels.
The Lord of the Rings Deluxe Illustrated Box Set
For those seeking a luxurious rendition of the core saga, “The Lord of the Rings Deluxe Illustrated Box Set” is a remarkable offering. Released last October, this exquisite three-volume hardcover set features over 50 new illustrations by the acclaimed artist Alan Lee. Each book is meticulously crafted with cloth boards, quarter-bound in leather, and adorned with new artwork stamped on the covers. The set is presented in a custom cloth board display case, foil-stamped with a silver emblem that complements the typography on the covers and spines. The page edges and the interior of the display case are further enhanced with illustrations depicting Mount Doom`s eruption.