The Silmarillion by J.R.R. Tolkien, 2nd Edition

Tolkien: The Silmarillion is a history of Middle-earth’s creation and First Age, following the Silmarils, Fëanor’s rebellion and the war against Morgoth. This English-language edition is listed at 416 pages and provides the legendarium’s background rather than a continuation of The Lord of the Rings.

At a glance

Covers the creation of the world and the First Age of Middle-earth.
Centers on the Silmarils, Fëanor and his kin, their return from Valinor, and their war against Morgoth.
Provides background for the history and characters referenced in The Lord of the Rings.

Price

$21.24Save 53%

Reference price: ~~$45.00~~

Price checked: Nov 14, 2026

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Pros and cons

Pros

Offers a broad account of Middle-earth’s early history and mythology in one 416-page volume.
English-language edition with ISBN-10 and ISBN-13 listed for edition identification.

Technical specifications

9 specifications

Edition and publication
Publisher	William Morrow
Publication date	November 15, 2004
Edition	2nd ed.
Language	English
Print length	416 pages
ISBN-10	0618391118
ISBN-13	978-0618391110

Dimensions and installation
Weight listed	3.5 pounds
Dimensions	7.38 x 1.37 x 9.62 inches

What to know before buying

The listing describes the narrative as ancient history and mythic drama. Customer feedback reports that some readers find its style and readability challenging, so it may suit readers seeking lore more than a straightforward adventure. The listed weight is 3.5 pounds.

Who is it for?

A good fit for

Tolkien readers looking for Middle-earth’s creation and First Age history.
Readers interested in the origins of figures and events referenced in The Lord of the Rings.
Readers comfortable with mythic, history-focused fantasy.

Less suited to

Readers who mainly want a fast-paced, straightforward adventure narrative.
Readers seeking an illustrated edition, since illustration details are not specified for this edition.

The Silmarillion by J.R.R. Tolkien, 2nd Edition · photo 2 — Additional product photo 2

Customer reviews on Amazon

4.7 / 5 · 24,784 ratings

5 stars84%84%
4 stars11%11%
3 stars3%3%
2 stars1%1%
1 star1%1%

Customer feedback highlights the book’s expansive Middle-earth history and story, with positive reactions to its content and appeal for Tolkien enthusiasts. Readers differ on the writing style and ease of reading: some praise its literary quality and find it engaging, while others describe it as difficult or turgid. That divide matters here because the book’s First Age history and mythic scope are central to its appeal, but readers wanting a direct, easy-to-follow adventure may find the approach less accessible.

Positive themes

Customers praise the breadth of Middle-earth history and the book’s content.
Feedback notes appeal for Tolkien enthusiasts and readers interested in the story’s historical background.

Mixed feedback

Readers report mixed reactions to readability, engagement and writing style, with some finding it literary and others finding it difficult or turgid.

Frequently asked questions

What is The Silmarillion about?

The listing describes the creation of the world and Middle-earth’s First Age, including the Silmarils, Fëanor’s rebellion and the conflict with Morgoth.

Is this the same kind of story as The Lord of the Rings?

It is presented as background history and mythic drama that The Lord of the Rings’ characters look back on, rather than as a continuation of that story.

What edition details are listed?

The listing specifies a 2nd edition published by William Morrow, in English, with 416 pages.