Why Reading A Game of Thrones Blew Me Away (Even After Watching the Show)

During the pandemic, I finally gave in and decided to watch Game of Thrones. When it was airing, especially the later seasons, it felt like everyone I knew was watching and loving it. I thought it was okay, but by season 5 or 6, I lost interest and stopped watching.

Last night, however, I finished the first book in A Song of Ice and Fire, A Game of Thrones, and it completely blew me away. The book was incredible. From start to finish, I was fully engrossed in the story. The writing is both dense and layered, yet still easy to follow. The characters are all fascinating, even the ones you’re meant to hate. And the world George R.R. Martin has created feels rich with history and lore, making it feel alive in a way that few fantasy worlds do.

I’d always heard that the books were amazing, but I didn’t fully understand why—until now. It’s phenomenal.

Why Didn’t the Show Click for Me?

After reflecting on why the show didn’t have the same impact, I think a big part of it comes down to the medium. I’m not much of a TV person in general, and while the adaptation is fairly faithful (at least based on the first season and book), something was missing for me.

While the show captures the grimdark, medieval fantasy vibe, it lacks the depth of feeling that the book has. The characters felt distant on-screen, and despite strong performances from the actors, I never really cared about their fates. In the book, however, I was completely invested in their journeys. Even when I knew a character was walking into a trap or making a bad decision, I found myself hoping they’d figure it out, because the book made me care so much about them.

The Book Brought the World to Life

What truly sets the book apart is how vividly Martin’s world comes to life. Every detail—from the sprawling castles to the political intrigue—feels textured and real. There’s a sense of history that you can feel in every conversation and every scene. In the show, that richness is harder to convey, but in the book, it’s front and center.

I’m a little jealous of those who get to experience these books for the first time without any spoilers from the show. Reading A Game of Thrones has made me excited to dive into the rest of the series—and yes, I know I’ll eventually have to join everyone else in waiting for the final books (fingers crossed they actually come out!).

Conclusion: If You’ve Only Seen the Show, Read the Book

If, like me, you’ve only seen the show, I highly recommend giving the book a chance. It adds so much more depth to the world and characters you thought you knew. A Game of Thrones is a must-read, and I can’t wait to see what happens next.

Comments

Why Outer Dark is Cormac McCarthy’s Most Unsettling Masterpiece

This book is wild. Just reading the back cover, I knew I was in for something crazy, but Outer Dark surpassed even my wildest expectations. Outer Dark back cover: "A woman bears her brother's child, a boy; he leaves the baby in the woods and tells her he died of natural causes. Discovering her brother's lie, she sets forth alone to find her son. Both brother and sister wander separately through a countryside being scourged by three terrifying and elusive strangers, headlong toward an eerie, apocalyptic resolution." This is an extremely dark read, but I loved every word McCarthy wrote. It was fantastic. As I mentioned in my review of All the Pretty Horses , Cormac McCarthy is probably my favourite author. Outer Dark continues to reinforce that belief. Interestingly, as I started reading Outer Dark , a Vanity Fair article surfaced claiming that Cormac McCarthy had a 16-year-old muse late in his life. While I haven’t been able to access the full article due to subsc...

Ten Books Everyone Should Read: A Comprehensive List

As an avid reader, I've come across many incredible stories that have shaped my love for literature. Here are some of my favourite books that I believe everyone should explore: 1. Hyperion by Dan Simmons Hyperion is a masterful blend of science fiction and fantasy that weaves together the stories of seven pilgrims on a journey to the distant world of Hyperion. Each character shares their tale, revealing deep philosophical themes, rich world-building, and an unforgettable exploration of time and sacrifice. Simmons' intricate narrative structure draws readers in, making it a profound experience that leaves a lasting impression. 2. The Pillars of the Earth by Ken Follett Set in 12th-century England, The Pillars of the Earth follows the construction of a grand cathedral in the fictional town of Kingsbridge. Follett intricately details the lives of various characters, from architects to nobility, against a backdrop of political intrigue and social upheaval. This epic historical ...

Big Ideas, Short Stories: Why Ted Chiang’s Stories of Your Life and Others is a Must-Read

I absolutely loved Stories of Your Life and Others ! This short story collection was something new for me. I usually gravitate toward longer works, so I wasn’t sure what to expect from these shorter pieces (the only other short story collections I’d read were the first two Witcher books). But wow—these stories were perfect. They never felt rushed, nor did they overstay their welcome. Each one felt like its own immersive journey, with just the right balance. The collection is rooted in science fiction and speculative fiction, my favourite genres, especially when there’s a philosophical twist woven into the plot. Chiang’s writing explores big ideas without feeling heavy or overly abstract—it’s like he makes you ponder the universe while staying grounded in the human experience. I think that’s what made this such a standout read for me. It’s hard to choose a favourite, but “Tower of Babylon” and “Liking What You See: A Documentary” are definitely at the top. “Liking What You See” especia...

A Blog on Books

Search This Blog