A Game Of Thrones #1
Book One of A Song of Ice and Fire
Based on the novel by George R.R. Martin
Adapted by Daniel Abraham
Art by Tommy Patterson
Letters by Marshall Dillion
Colors by Ivan Nunes
Covers by Alex Ross, Mike S. Miller
Dynamite Entertainment
Release Date: September 21, 2011
Cover Price: $3.99

George R.R. Martin‘s books are iconic fantasy novels that I hold in the highest regard. A Game Of Thrones #1 was everything I could ever want in an adaptation…and more. Unlike the HBO miniseries of the same name, this comic book delivers a better depth of the book as opposed to trying to make it fit into segmented television programs. Not that I disliked the show, but it was a concise version of one of the greatest fantasy books I’ve ever read.

While it doesn’t quite match up visually to what my mind created while reading the original book, A Game Of Thrones #1 brings a certain depth that many comics are missing today. Through a combination of Tommy Patterson‘s art and Daniel Abraham‘s writing, we get a thorough view of the world of the Seven Kingdoms and beyond. From the quick justice of Eddard Stark, Lord of Winterfell, to the sad straits of Daenerys Targaryen, Princess of Dragonstone, we are shown both the beauty and the horror of this harsh world.

I’m quite sure that as this series continues and the world is expanded upon, we will be amazed by the sights shown in these comics. I was also impressed with both the concentration on the primary characters and the details in the background, that helped to enhance the overall feel of the story.

We see a bit of the intrigue in this issue, though little is made of it. As far as introductory issues go, this comic both told a story and dangled the proverbial carrot in front of us. The primary plots are begun but not spoiled by the release of too much information, thereby raising the reader’s awareness that much, much more is forthcoming. George R.R. Martin is the master of stories within stories, so even a casual reader is able to see that these characters have an intensity far beyond that of the average comic, each one having his or her own story to tell. And from what I can see, this series from Dynamite Entertainment is going to make sure we witness them all.

I would easily give this series to both comic and non-comic fans alike. I truly loved this adaptation more than I would have thought. My only criticism would be that some of the characters don’t appear to be aged as much as I would have expected. But really, that’s almost a non-issue as it probably stems from my perception of the characters from many years ago. I hope you find the comic as enjoyable as I did. Of course, to do so, you will have to go buy it…thereby ensuring the continued production of the series. Now, go pick it up. Seriously, go now.