What don't we know about the world of Game of Thrones? Fans have obsessed over the show and the Song of Ice and Fire book series for years now, crafting incredibly elaborate fan theories and meticulously detailed wikis. What could the new The World of Ice and Fire book possibly say that we don't already know?
Well, a whole lot, it turns out. In fact, 300 pages worth. Sure, it isn't all brand new information, but it's the first time a comprehensive history of George R.R. Martin's fantasy world has been presented in such an easily digestible form.
Martin wrote the book himself along with Elio Garcia Jr. and Linda Antonsson of the Westeros.org fan site, the only two people on the planet who just might know as much about Westeros as Martin himself. Together they've crafted the ultimate resource for curious fans wondering about which Targaryen married which, the history of the First Men and the horror of the Long Night.
Along the way the trio fills in numerous blanks in the Song of Ice and Fire timeline that hardcore fans have been curious about for years. Ever wanted to know what all made the Mad King Aerys so, well, mad? A desire to learn everything about the Targaryen war of succession, the Dance of the Dragons? Want to know how the free cities became so free? Or read all there is about the Doom of Valyria? It's all here, in more detail than ever before.
The book is divided into a few main sections, the first detailing the ancient history of the world before moving on to Aegon the Conqueror and the reign of the Targaryen kings in Westeros. The reign of each king is explained in great detail, and Martin does a good job of reminding readers who the various players of the "game of thrones" at the time are.
The remainder of the book is, for the most part, dedicated to taking an in-depth look at each region of the world, the bulk of it dedicated to the seven kingdoms of Westeros. From the ruling noble house in each region to their seat of power, every aspect of realm is examined, as well as the region's heritage and history. Essos, the continent that lies to the east of Westeros, is even given a moment in the spotlight too. It proves to be one of the more interesting parts of the book, as fans don't know nearly as much about the other continents of Martin's world as they do about Westeros, the land of knights and nobles. All the free cities, like Braavos and Volantis, are highlighted, and more information than ever before is given about Sothoryos, the mysterious southern continent of Martin's world that is comprised of lush jungle and ancient ruins.
Of course, no discussion of The World of Ice and Fire is complete without mentioning the more than two dozen talented fantasy artists who help bring Martin's characters, events and locations to life with their work. From depictions of the massive and twisted Iron Throne above (the most accurate portrayal of the throne so far, says Martin) to epic battle scenes, the art in this book is a dream come true for fans and includes numerous never-before-seen pieces. Also maps. There are lots of maps.
While the more than 300 pages of content is interesting in and of itself, the way it's all presented is also worth talking about. The entire book is written in universe so to speak, with Martin penning the book as if it was the life work of one Maester Yondel of the Citadel. As the entire book is written by a character in the Song of Ice and Fire world, Yondel doesn't always know every fact about every location or event, and some pieces of history are left unknown. When talking about White Walkers, the Others and others mystical creatures, Yondel is often skeptical of their ongoing existence, even though readers and watchers of Game of Thrones know all too well the Others are very much alive and kicking. Like a real historical work, Yondel often cites the work of other Maesters, sometimes commenting on their theories while presenting his own. The book is even intended as a gift to King Tommen.
It's those touches that elevate The World of Ice and Fire from what would be an above average quality coffee-table book filled with facts and into what is a must-read for serious Game of Thrones fans. There is so much new information here about Westerosi ancient history, the noble houses and the Targaryen reign that it more than justifies the cover price, not to mention all the stunning illustrations and painstakingly detailed maps. George R.R. Martin's latest book isn't Winds of Winter, but it should more than appease even the most die hard Song of Ice and Fire fan.
Photos: All images courtesy of Random House
