The Silmarillion
by John Ronald Reuel Tolkien
Perfection Learning 1979
Easy read — content targets 9th–12th grade
Reading level 7.9 (7th grade) but themes aimed at ages 14+
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Genre
Themes
- creation and myth-making
- good vs. evil
- pride and hubris
- fate and free will
- sacrifice
- loss and exile
- power and corruption
- heroism
About this book
Tolkien’s The Silmarillion gathers the myths and legends that shape the earliest ages of Middle-earth—from the creation of the world to the rise of the first great evil. Readers follow Elves, Men, and other beings through epic struggles, tragic heroism, and the forging of powerful realms and jewels. The language is rich and classical, making it best for strong, patient readers who love deep world-building. Fans of The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings enjoy discovering the origin stories behind familiar names and places.
Setting: the world of Arda—primarily Beleriand in the First Age of Middle-earth
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is The Silmarillion right for my child?
It depends — here's what to consider for The Silmarillion. The reading level is AR 7.9, which is typical for 7th grade. The interest level is rated Upper Grades (9–12), meaning the themes and content are designed for ages 14+ (9th–12th grade). Themes include creation and myth-making, good vs. evil, pride and hubris.
How long does it take to read The Silmarillion?
At a typical 7th grade reading pace, The Silmarillion takes around 12h to finish. The book has 130,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does The Silmarillion have an AR quiz?
Yes — The Silmarillion has an AR quiz available, worth 20 points. Your child will need to take and pass the quiz through their school's Accelerated Reader program to earn credit. The quiz is typically 5–20 multiple choice questions about plot, characters, and setting.
What grade level is The Silmarillion?
The Silmarillion has an AR reading level of 7.9, which places it at a 7th grade reading difficulty. The interest level is rated Upper Grades (9–12) — this reflects the age-appropriateness of the content and themes, not just the reading difficulty. A strong younger reader may handle the words fine while the themes are aimed at an older audience, or vice versa.