12 Reasons Why You Should Read Game of Thrones

When the credits rolled on the final episode of Game of Thrones, I sat back, reflecting on the epic journey I had just witnessed. As someone who has watched the show twice (up to the 6th season – because let’s be honest, that’s when the magic starts to fade), I couldn’t help but wonder if there was more to this tale.

Being a reader first and a viewer later, I decided to dive into George R.R. Martin‘s A Song of Ice and Fire series to satiate my curiosity. I mean, if I were a TV show and movie fanatic, you’d be reading my blog about the latest binge-worthy series, but alas, here I am, championing the written word.

Now, running a book blog is no easy feat; you have to read a plethora of books and then write about them. Watching a movie takes much less time than reading a book with the same story.

Fortunately, I’ve been devouring stories for the past 20 years (or 21? Not important), so I’m up for the challenge. But enough about me, let’s return to the topic at hand – why you should read the A Song of Ice and Fire series even after watching the TV show.

I started reading it after watching a conversation between George R.r. Martin and Stephen King on YouTube. The way King described his experience of reading Martin’s epic series, I thought I had to try them too (when Stephen King recommends a book, you read it – period).

I’m currently engrossed in the fourth book, A Feast for Crows, and though I haven’t completed the series, I’ve read enough to confidently say that the GOT or ASOIAF books are worth your time. In fact, I’ve managed to compile a list of 12 reasons why you should still read this epic fantasy series by George R.R. Martin, even if you’ve already seen the entire television adaptation.

So, without further ado, let’s get on this literary journey together and explore the captivating world of Westeros and beyond:

1. There’s more to the story

Remember the feeling when your favorite show ended, and you craved more? That’s where the books come in. George R.R. Martin’s series is a treasure trove of additional storylines, subplots, and intricate details that were left out of the TV adaptation.

For instance, the Lady Stoneheart subplot adds a whole new layer of depth to the story of Catelyn Stark that the series didn’t explore. Picking up the books will satisfy your hunger for more Westerosi tales and give you a richer understanding of the world.

2. More characters to explore

If you thought the show had a massive cast of characters, just wait until you dive into the books. Martin introduces a plethora of personalities that didn’t make it to the screen, like the charming Arianne Martell, the cunning Victarion Greyjoy, or the enigmatic Young Griff. These characters have compelling stories of their own, and their presence adds new dimensions to the tale we thought we knew.

3. A different journey

The books and the show are like two siblings – similar but with their own unique quirks. While the series provided a thrilling ride, the books take you on a different adventure altogether, full of twists and turn that the TV adaptation couldn’t capture. For example, book Sansa’s storyline takes a different path from her TV counterpart, as she remains in the Vale and becomes entangled in political intrigue.

4. You Don’t want to miss the author’s fantastic writing style

There’s a reason George R.R. Martin is considered one of the greats in the fantasy genre. His writing style is rich and immersive, pulling you into the world of Westeros with ease. The way he describes feasts is enough to make your mouth water, and his battle scenes are so vivid you can practically hear the clang of swords. Experiencing the story through Martin’s prose is a delight that you shouldn’t miss out on.

5. TV adaptations/Movies are actually fanfictions

As much as we loved the TV series, it’s essential to remember that it’s an adaptation – a visual interpretation of the source material. That means some creative liberties were taken, and not everything aligns with Martin’s vision. For instance, the show omitted the entire Greyjoy Rebellion subplot, which is a crucial part of Theon’s character development in the books.

Reading the novels allows you to experience the original, unfiltered tale straight from the mind of its creator.

6. The Joy of discovering Easter eggs and foreshadowing

One of the most rewarding aspects of reading the books is uncovering hidden gems, Easter eggs, and foreshadowing that you may have missed while watching the show. Remember the cryptic prophecy of Cersei’s downfall? The books provide a more detailed account of it, offering readers the thrill of piecing together clues and theorizing about future events.

7. The winds of Winter anticipation

The show may have concluded, but the book series is still ongoing, with two more installments to come. The Winds of Winter and A Dream of Spring promise to bring more excitement, and diving into the books now will give you a front-row seat to the anticipation and speculation surrounding the upcoming releases. Also, the books might have different endings as the storyline is quite different, and many were disappointed at the ending of the HBO Show.

8. More Rich History and Lore

The series barely touched this part of the novel. The books offer a wealth of information about the history, legends, and customs of Westeros. From the tales of the Age of Heroes to the complex family trees of noble houses, it’s a goldmine for anyone who loves to immerse themselves in a well-built and detailed fictional world.

The depth and scope of Martin’s world-building are awe-inspiring. By reading the books, you’ll be able to fully appreciate the intricate tapestry of cultures, religions, and landscapes that he has created.

9. Fill in the gaps left by the show

The TV series left out some subplots and characters that added depth to the story. For example, the books explore the Greyjoy family and their struggles in more detail, which was largely skipped over in the show.

10. A Chance to debate book vs. Show

Reading the books opens up a whole new world of discussions and debates with fellow fans. As someone who loves engaging in spirited conversations about my favorite stories, I’ve found that comparing and contrasting the books with the TV show has led to some fascinating insights and friendly disagreements. It’s always interesting to see which aspects other readers enjoyed more in one medium over the other.

11. Unleash your imagination

One of the most rewarding aspects of reading is the ability to create a unique mental picture of the world and its inhabitants. As I read the A Song of Ice and Fire series, I found myself immersed in the world of Westeros, visualizing the characters and landscapes according to my own interpretation. It’s like painting your own mental canvas, with every detail colored by your imagination, resulting in a deeply personal and enriching experience.

12. Relive the excitement

One of the most gratifying aspects of reading the A Song of Ice and Fire series, especially as someone who has watched the TV show, is the anticipation of how George R.R. Martin will ultimately conclude the story. The show’s ending left some fans unsatisfied, and the prospect of experiencing a different (and potentially more satisfying) conclusion in the books is incredibly appealing.

Not to mention, there’s something special about being part of the journey as the final books are released, and the fandom comes together to discuss, dissect, and celebrate the story’s conclusion.

Final Thoughts

Embarking on the A Song of Ice and Fire journey after watching the Game of Thrones TV series has been an enlightening and rewarding experience for me. From rediscovering my favorite characters to engaging my imagination, it has deepened my appreciation for the world of Westeros and the art of storytelling. I encourage you to dive into the books and experience these joys for yourself.