If you’re a fan of fantasy literature or have recently become captivated by the world of “Game of Thrones” through the hit TV series, you might be wondering: What is the best order to read Game of Thrones books? This question is essential for anyone new to the series or looking to revisit George R.R. Martin’s epic “A Song of Ice and Fire” saga. In this article, we’ll dive deep into the reading order of the Game of Thrones series, offering recommendations that will enhance your reading experience. We’ll also explore key reasons why reading the books in a particular order can maximize your enjoyment.
Why You Should Read Game of Thrones Books
Before we jump into the reading order, it’s important to understand why reading the Game of Thrones books is crucial. The books provide a much deeper exploration of the world of Westeros than what you may have seen on TV. Richly detailed, Martin’s series gives fans complex characters, intricate political plots, and lore that expands far beyond the HBO adaptation.
Reading the Game of Thrones series allows you to immerse yourself in Martin’s world at your own pace, savoring each plot twist and understanding the backstories that sometimes get glossed over in the show. Now, let’s dive into the recommended order to read Game of Thrones books.
The Chronological Reading Order of “A Song of Ice and Fire”
The Game of Thrones series, also known as A Song of Ice and Fire, is not a simple fantasy series with just a beginning and an end. The series is composed of multiple novels and novellas. The core novels should be read in order to understand the complex, intertwining stories of the characters. Below is the suggested chronological order for reading these books:
1. A Game of Thrones (1996)
This is the book that started it all. In A Game of Thrones, readers are introduced to the seven kingdoms of Westeros and the powerful families that control them. Major characters such as Eddard Stark, Jon Snow, Daenerys Targaryen, and Tyrion Lannister are all introduced in this first novel. As the opening book of the saga, it sets the stage for the political intrigue, wars, and family betrayals that define the series. If you’re asking “What order should I read Game of Thrones in?”, starting with this book is a no-brainer.
2. A Clash of Kings (1998)
The second book, A Clash of Kings, follows the fallout from the death of King Robert Baratheon. Several contenders for the Iron Throne emerge, and the book follows the various battles and alliances that ensue. It also marks the rise of power for key characters like Robb Stark and Stannis Baratheon. You’ll also see the magical elements of the series becoming more pronounced as Daenerys grows in power and the mysterious red priestess Melisandre uses her abilities to influence events.
3. A Storm of Swords (2000)
The third book, A Storm of Swords, is arguably the most action-packed of the series. It’s filled with major plot twists, including the infamous Red Wedding, and is essential for any fan of the series. The complexity of the story deepens as Martin expertly weaves multiple plotlines together. This book will give you a solid foundation for understanding the conflicts and rivalries that dominate the series moving forward.
4. A Feast for Crows (2005)
Following the intense action of A Storm of Swords, Martin slows down the pace slightly in A Feast for Crows. This book primarily focuses on the power struggle in King’s Landing and the aftermath of the civil war. The Ironborn and Dornish factions receive more attention here, and readers will enjoy the intricate political maneuvering. Though some fans find this book slower, it’s essential for setting up the events in the following installments.
5. A Dance with Dragons (2011)
A Dance with Dragons overlaps in timeline with A Feast for Crows, covering the stories of characters like Jon Snow, Tyrion Lannister, and Daenerys Targaryen, who were not as present in the previous book. This novel reintroduces the complex web of intrigue across Westeros and Essos, focusing on political scheming, military campaigns, and the rising threat of the White Walkers.
6. The Winds of Winter (Upcoming)
Though not yet released at the time of writing, The Winds of Winter is highly anticipated by fans. When this book finally comes out, it will continue the stories of Jon, Daenerys, and Tyrion, as well as the broader conflicts unfolding in Westeros. The release of this book will be a major event in the world of fantasy literature, and it’s recommended to dive into it as soon as it’s available.
7. A Dream of Spring (Upcoming)
The planned final book in the A Song of Ice and Fire series is A Dream of Spring. This novel will presumably bring the sprawling epic to a close, resolving the remaining storylines and deciding the ultimate fate of the Iron Throne. While details about this book are scarce, it’s expected to tie together all the major plot threads that Martin has been weaving since A Game of Thrones.
Optional Reading: Companion Novels and Novellas
In addition to the main series, there are several companion novels and novellas that enrich the Game of Thrones reading experience. While these aren’t essential for following the core plot, they add significant depth to the world of Westeros. Here’s a list of optional reads in the Game of Thrones universe:
1. The Tales of Dunk and Egg
This series of novellas, including The Hedge Knight, The Sworn Sword, and The Mystery Knight, follows the adventures of Ser Duncan the Tall and his squire, Egg (who later becomes King Aegon V Targaryen). Set about 90 years before the events of A Game of Thrones, these stories are a great way to learn more about the history of the Seven Kingdoms.
2. Fire & Blood (2018)
Fire & Blood is a prequel that details the history of House Targaryen, from Aegon’s Conquest to the reign of King Aegon III. This book is essential for anyone interested in the lore of Westeros, particularly those fascinated by the Targaryen dynasty and their dragons. Reading Fire & Blood provides crucial context for the TV series House of the Dragon.
3. The World of Ice & Fire (2014)
For readers who want an in-depth look at the world of Westeros and Essos, The World of Ice & Fire serves as a historical compendium. It covers the rise and fall of noble houses, key events in Westerosi history, and detailed accounts of places and cultures not fully explored in the main series.
Reading the Books Versus Watching the Series
Some fans may wonder whether they should bother reading the books if they’ve already seen the TV series. The answer is a resounding yes! While the HBO adaptation of Game of Thrones is visually stunning and has its own merits, the books offer a much richer experience. For one, George R.R. Martin’s writing delves deep into the thoughts and motivations of the characters, something that can be difficult to capture on screen.
Additionally, many storylines in the books were either altered or entirely omitted in the show. For example, characters like Lady Stoneheart and Arianne Martell play significant roles in the books but don’t appear in the TV series. Reading the books allows you to experience these lost storylines and characters, adding new dimensions to the world you thought you knew.
Why Following the Correct Reading Order Matters
The reading order of the Game of Thrones books is vital for understanding the progression of events and appreciating the complex narrative arcs. Skipping around or reading out of order can lead to confusion, as many of the plotlines build on one another.
For example, if you were to read A Dance with Dragons before A Storm of Swords, you would miss important developments and character deaths that shape the later novels. Reading the series in order also allows you to grow with the characters, experiencing their triumphs and tragedies in a way that feels natural.
Conclusion: Read Game of Thrones in the Right Order for Maximum Enjoyment
If you’re ready to dive into the world of Game of Thrones and experience the epic story in its full form, following the proper reading order is essential. Start with A Game of Thrones and work your way through the core novels, supplementing your journey with optional novellas like The Tales of Dunk and Egg or historical works like Fire & Blood.
Reading the Game of Thrones series offers a deeper understanding of George R.R. Martin’s intricate world-building, character development, and complex political landscapes. Whether you’re a newcomer to the series or a fan looking to revisit the books, reading them in the correct order will ensure you get the most out of your experience.
