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Open Library readers: 4.22 / 5 from 762 ratings. Separate from ratings here.Catalogue checked 2026-10-02.
A Game of Thrones is the inaugural novel in A Song of Ice and Fire, an epic series of fantasy novels crafted by the American author George R. R. Martin. Published on August 1, 1996, this novel introduces readers to the richly detailed world of Westeros and Essos, where political intrigue, power struggles, and magical elements intertwine.
The story unfolds through multiple perspectives, each chapter focusing on a different character, allowing readers to experience the narrative from various angles. This complex structure has become a hallmark of Martin's storytelling, immersing readers in the lives and motivations of a diverse cast.
### Plot Summary
Set in the fictional continents of…
A Game of Thrones is the inaugural novel in A Song of Ice and Fire, an epic series of fantasy novels crafted by the American author George R. R. Martin. Published on August 1, 1996, this novel introduces readers to the richly detailed world of Westeros and Essos, where political intrigue, power struggles, and magical elements intertwine.
The story unfolds through multiple perspectives, each chapter focusing on a different character, allowing readers to experience the narrative from various angles. This complex structure has become a hallmark of Martin's storytelling, immersing readers in the lives and motivations of a diverse cast.
### Plot Summary
Set in the fictional continents of Westeros and Essos, the narrative revolves around the power struggles among noble families vying for the Iron Throne, the seat of power in the Seven Kingdoms of Westeros. The story is rich with political intrigue, betrayal, and epic battles, as well as a deep exploration of themes such as loyalty, honor, and the consequences of power.
### Themes
The novel explores themes of power, loyalty, and the moral complexities of leadership. It delves into the consequences of ambition and the struggle between personal honor and political necessity. The richly detailed world-building and intricate character development make
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Bibliographic source: Open LibraryA Game of Thrones is by George R. R. Martin. The catalogue records its first publication in 1996. A later edition may have a different publication date on its copyright page.
The catalogue records 801 pages for a representative edition. Pagination varies with the publisher, format, type size and translation, so check the edition you intend to read.
### Key Characters
- Eddard "Ned" Stark: The honorable Lord of Winterfell and Warden of the North, known for his unwavering honor and sense of duty.
- Catelyn Stark: The devoted wife of Eddard Stark, whose strength and wisdom guide her family through challenging times.
- Robert Baratheon: The King of the Seven Kingdoms, who won the throne through rebellion. His reign is marked by political intrigue and personal struggles, reflecting the broader conflicts of the realm.
- Cersei Lannister: The ambitious and cunning Queen of Westeros, whose political acumen and determination make her a formidable presence in the court.
- Jaime Lannister: A skilled swordsman and member of the Kingsguard, known for his prowess in battle and complex loyalties.
- Tyrion Lannister: The witty and resourceful dwarf, known for his sharp mind and cunning, navigating the treacherous politics of the realm.
- Daenerys Targaryen: An exiled princess of House Targaryen, seeking to reclaim her birthright and restore her family's dynasty.
- Jon Snow: The bastard son of Eddard Stark, who joins the Night's Watch and faces unique challenges in the far north.
- Sansa Stark: The eldest daughter of Eddard Stark, initially known for her naivety and romantic ideals, who learns to navigate the complexities of court life.
- Arya Stark: The youngest daughter of Eddard Stark, known for her spirited and adventurous nature, seeking her own path in the world.
- Bran Stark: The second son of Eddard Stark, whose life takes a dramatic turn.
### Awards and Recognition
- Winner of the 1997 Locus Award
- Nominated for the 1997 Nebula Award
- Nominated for the 1997 World Fantasy Award
- Winner of the 1997 Hugo Award for Best Novella for "Blood of the Dragon," which includes the Daenerys Targaryen chapters from the novel
- Became a New York Times Bestseller in January 2011 and reached No. 1 on the list in July 2011
Followed by: [A Clash of Kings]
Compare the publisher, publication date, language, format and ISBN in the editions section. If you need a particular translation or a matching book-club copy, confirm those details with the seller. A work-level page brings different editions together; its first-publication year does not identify your individual copy.
Check a copy's editionCreasy Spines ratings come from readers here. The separate Open Library score is 4.22 out of 5 from 762 ratings in our catalogue snapshot. It belongs to a different reader community and is not combined with our ratings.
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Look for a copyA Game of Thrones
Bantam Books, 2019
ISBN 9780593158203
A Game of Thrones
Bantam Books, 2017 / Paperback, 720 pp.
ISBN 9780553386790
A Game of Thrones
Harper Voyager, 2017 / Ebook
ISBN 9780007378425
A Game of Thrones
Bantam Books, 2017 / Ebook
ISBN 9780553897845
A Game of Thrones
Bantam Books, 2016 / Mass market
ISBN 9780553593716
A Game of Thrones: Book One of A Song of Ice and Fire
Bantam Books, 2016 / Hardcover, 881 pp.
ISBN 9780553808049
A Game of Thrones
Harper Voyager, 2016 / Hardcover, 896 pp.
ISBN 9780008209100
A Game of Thrones
Harper Voyager, 2016 / Ebook
ISBN 9780008249618
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