How close is the show to the book A Game of Thrones?

Watched the season end of Game of Thrones. Loved the show so much I simply cannot wait until next year for season 2. I was thinking I'd pick up the books see what happens next. So this question is for anyone that has read the first book and watched the entire first season of the show.



How close is the show to the book? If I just jump straight into the second book will I be pretty much caught up? Or will i be missing anything that the show didn't put in?How close is the show to the book A Game of Thrones?
You do need to read the first book before reading the second book. The show followed the book very closely, but not perfectly. Some characters were combined, storylines simplified, etc. You'll miss a lot if you don't read the first book.How close is the show to the book A Game of Thrones?
I love the show too! And I started the 1st book midway through the season and finished in a week. Therefore I knew enough ahead of time what was going to happen by the end. The season follows as closely as any movie adaptation I've ever seen for a book. Really pretty incredible how good they were about that but there are some things left out, or scenes that were added just because they needed a sex scene or had to explain something that they didn't show on tv but was in the book. I highly suggest reading book 1. It's worth it just so you can lay the groundwork for the next books. For instance, the Erie is a much bigger ordeal then they showed in the show. I mean that place is supposed to be super impressive because of how high it is but they only touched on that in the show. In my opinion you should read it.How close is the show to the book A Game of Thrones?
The dire wolves play a much bigger part in the book, plus they are MUCH larger.



The books go much deeper into the politics of each House. You will learn much more about the family history of the dragon princess. The author also hints at things as well that will leave you thinking. For example, who is Jon Snows mother? (Many think she might be the sister of the old Targaryan King - that is why Ned took Snow home, to protect him from King Robert. If so then that would put Snow in a position to bid for Kingship.) But you need to start with book 1. If you liked the episodes you will love the books. Best fantasy series ever written.