Prepare for the Final Season of Game of Thrones

If you’re like many of us here at the library, you’re in deep denial that the final season of HBO’s “Game of Thrones” is starting this month. And to make it worse, we STILL don’t have the sixth book in the “A Song of Ice and Fire” series from George, yet!

So what’s a Westeros junkie supposed to do without Jon Snow and Daenerys and Tyrion and Cersei, and all the rest of them, until “The Winds of Winter” is finally published?

Go to the library, of course!

While we can’t give you the next installment of George R. R. Martin’s epic series (as of this posting), we can offer up some great ideas to get you through the dark days ahead and maybe even spark an interest in a new series or two.

Plus, if you need to start the series from the beginning or get caught up before watching, you can check out all of the previous television seasons of “Game of Thrones” (GoT) on DVD, or you can get started reading or listening to the books!

Prequels to A Song of Ice and Fire

Bran may have the greensight of the Three-Eyed Raven, but the rest of us can use some help seeing the past. Go back hundreds of years before even the Mad King was sitting the Iron Throne and hear the adventures and histories of the people of Westeros.

A Knight of the Seven Kingdom: Being the Adventures of Ser Duncan the Tall, and His Squire, Egg by George R. R. Martin
A volume of three previously uncollected novellas set nearly a century before the events of GoT shares historical insights and includes the tale of a young boy who grows up to become the great-grandfather of Daenerys. Also available as an audiobook/CD and eBook on OverDrive.

Fire and Blood: 300 Years Before ‘A Game of Thrones’ (a Targaryen History) by George. R.R. Martin
The first volume of a definitive two-part history of the Targaryens in Westeros is set centuries before the events of GoT and answers key questions about the dynasty’s origins, conflicts and relationships with dragons. Also available as an audiobook/CD.

The Hedge Knight: A Graphic Novel by George R.R. Martin (Book 1 in series)
The graphic novel version of the “A Knight of the Seven Kingdom” novellas. The series includes “The Hedge Knight,” “Sworn Sword,” and “Mystery Knight.”

What to Watch Next

If you love George R.R. Martin’s other sci-fi/fantasy adventures, then give “Nightflyers” a go. But if you’re looking for more epic battles and intrigue a la the Seven Kingdoms, then it’s the “Vikings” television series for you!

Nightflyers Complete Season 1 (DVD)
The crew of the spaceship Nightflyer set out to intercept an alien ship that might hold the key to humanity’s survival. Based on the novella by George R.R. Martin.

Vikings –Seasons 1-5 (DVDs)
A series inspired by the sagas of Viking Ragnar Lothbrok, one of the best-known legendary Norse heroes and the scourge of England and France.

Dinner is Coming

Arya hungry? Take a look at these GoT cookbooks and find inspiration to create a meal worthy of the Great Hall. Want something a bit lighter? Jammy Lannister’s “Game of Scones” might be a good choice.

A Feast of Ice and Fire: The Unofficial Companion Cookbook by Chelsea Monroe-Cassel
This cookbook replicates a stunning range of cuisines from across the Seven Kingdoms, from the sumptuous delicacies enjoyed in the halls of power at King’s Landing, to the warm and smoky comfort foods of the frozen North, to the rich, exotic fare of the mysterious lands east of Westeros.

Game of Scones: All Men Must Die (a Parody) by Jammy Lannister
A spoof recipe book combines clever puns, delicious recipes and humorous photos based on the series, including Red (Velvet) Wedding Cake, Joffrey’s Jaffas, Bran Muffins and Oberyn’s Smashing Head Surprise.

The Unofficial Game of Thrones Cookbook: from Direwolf Ale to Auroch Stew by Alan Kistler
Eat like a Lannister. Brew spirits to warm you in the coming winter. Treat guests to exotic sweets and alchemy-inspired cocktails. Every dish finds its roots in the pages that brought Westeros to life.

For the True Fan

If you can speak Dothraki or High Valyrian, or you know all the different House sigils, then you’re a true GoT fan. Me nem nesa.*

100 Things Game of Thrones Fans Should Know & Do Before They Die by Rowan Kaiser
Pop culture critic Rowan Kaiser has collected every essential piece of GoT knowledge and trivia, as well as must-do activities, and ranks them all from 1 to 100, providing an entertaining checklist as you progress on your way to fan superstardom!

The Art of Language Invention: from Horse-Lords to Dark Elves, the Words Behind World-Building by David Peterson
The linguist describes his methods for creating an artificial language, describing the details of word and sound formation and sentence construction and using examples from his own language creations like Dothraki for GoT.

Game of Thrones and Philosophy: Logic Cuts Deeper than Swords ed. Henry Jacoby
This book delves into the many philosophical questions that arise in this complex, character-driven series, including: Is it right for a “good” king to usurp the throne of a “bad” one and murder his family? How far should you go to protect your family and its secrets? In a fantasy universe with medieval mores and ethics, can female characters reflect modern feminist ideals? Also available as an eBook via OverDrive.

* “It is known” in Dothraki

Look Like Sansa or Jamie

Looking to get started on your cosplay outfit for Fort Collins Comic Con (August 17-18, 2019) and want some ideas and inspiration? Look no further!

Badass Braids: From Viking to Game of Thrones: 45 Maverick Braids, Buns, and Twists by Shannon Burns
Learn how to transform your hair, step by step, into braids and styles from a full spectrum of fantasy worlds (and galaxies), from ancient adversaries and Viking warriors to romantic renegades and sci-fi heroines.

The Costume Making Guide: Creating Armor & Props for Cosplay by Svetlana Quindt
Packed with more than 30 step-by-step demonstrations that teach the skills you need to bring all your favorite characters to life no matter the genre. Tutorials cover design planning, fabricating body armor, 3D painting techniques and more.

Another excellent Game of Thrones cosplay at Fort Collins Comic Con.
Photo: Mike Berry