Game Of Thrones: 10 Ways The Show Differs From The Book (For The Better)

Got8 Translating George R.R. Martin's A Song of Ice and Fire novels to television was always going to be a tall order. The sprawling narrative covers the fictional land of Westeros and beyond with more characters involved than most adaptations would know what to do with. HBO's Game of Thrones manages not only to provide a fantastic on-screen version of Martin's story but also streamlines certain aspects and arguably improves on others. Proving that epic fantasy can garner mainstream appeal with engaging scripting and strong performances, there is little even R.R. Martin diehards can complain of. As we have reached the end of season 3 €“ which also marks the end of A Storm of Swords €“ we're only two books behind Martin in terms of material to draw from. It's a relief then to see the love that the writers have for the world created in A Song of Ice and Fire, and their ability to not only adapt the existing narrative but to build upon it and create something that is a joy to watch. There was never any way to include every nuance from the novels €“ they are freaking huge, after all €“ but the writers have managed to fit all of the important plot points into their version while even adding some characterization of their own. This is where Game of Thrones really elevates itself from the source material, and it's these changes this article concerns itself with. Yet before we begin, I must point out that there's a SPOILER WARNING in effect.
Contributor
Contributor

A pop culture mad writer from the North East who loves films, television and debating them with whoever will listen. Follow me on Twitter @Johno_Patterson