Published in 1937, 'The Hobbit' is a children's fantasy novel that introduces readers to the richly imagined world of Middle-earth. The story follows Bilbo Baggins, a home-loving hobbit, who is persuaded by Gandalf to join Thorin and his twelve dwarves on a quest to reclaim their treasure from the dragon Smaug. During the journey, Bilbo encounters various creatures, including trolls, goblins, and the mysterious Gollum, and discovers a magical ring that renders the wearer invisible. The novel is a prequel to 'The Lord of the Rings' and explores themes of personal growth, courage, and unexpected heroism[2][4][5].
A Song of Ice and Fire is a series of high fantasy novels that takes place in a fictional world where seasons last for years. The story is set primarily in the Seven Kingdoms of Westeros and follows multiple plotlines, including a civil war for the Iron Throne among several competing families, the threat of the supernatural Others beyond the Wall, and the rise of dragons in the east. The series is known for its complex characters, intricate plots, and detailed world-building, drawing comparisons to J.R.R. Tolkien's The Lord of the Rings[2][4][5].
The Lord of the Rings, written by J.R.R. Tolkien, is an epic high fantasy novel set in Middle-earth. The story follows Frodo Baggins, a hobbit who inherits the One Ring from his uncle Bilbo. The Ring, forged by Sauron, holds the power to control all other Rings of Power and must be destroyed in the fires of Mount Doom to prevent Sauron's return. Frodo is joined by a fellowship of other characters, including Gandalf the Grey, Samwise Gamgee, Aragorn, Legolas, Gimli, and Boromir, as they embark on a dangerous quest across Middle-earth. The novel explores themes of good vs. evil, the corrupting influence of power, and the struggle between fate and free will[3][4][5].
The play revolves around Rosencrantz and Guildenstern, childhood friends of Hamlet, who are summoned by King Claudius to investigate Hamlet's apparent madness. The story intertwines with the events of Hamlet, but focuses on the existential crises and philosophical musings of the two protagonists as they navigate their roles in the larger drama. The play is known for its witty dialogue, absurd situations, and deep exploration of fate, free will, and the nature of reality.
Ray Bradbury's 'A Sound of Thunder' is a short story exploring the concept of time travel and its consequences. The story follows a hunting expedition that travels to the prehistoric era, where a seemingly insignificant act of killing a butterfly has unforeseen and catastrophic effects on the present. The story highlights the interconnectedness of events and the butterfly effect, where small changes can have large-scale repercussions. It's a classic example of science fiction exploring themes of causality and the fragility of time. The story's impact on the reader is profound, leaving them to ponder the implications of altering the past.
A Feast for Crows explores the consequences of the civil war in Westeros, with Cersei Lannister ruling as regent and new alliances forming. The book introduces new characters and plotlines while continuing the stories of Arya and Sansa Stark. It marks a shift in focus towards the political intrigue and personal struggles of the surviving characters.
A Storm of Swords is the gripping third book in George R.R. Martin's A Song of Ice and Fire series. It follows the ongoing War of the Five Kings, with Joffrey, Stannis, Robb Stark, and Balon Greyjoy vying for power. Meanwhile, Daenerys Targaryen seeks to reclaim her throne, and Jon Snow faces threats beyond the Wall. The novel is renowned for its complex characters, epic battles, and shocking plot twists.
The 'Wild Cards' series is set in a world where an alien virus, released in 1946, alters human DNA, resulting in superpowered Aces and deformed Jokers. The series explores themes of power, identity, and society through a mosaic of stories by various authors. It combines elements of science fiction and superhero genres, offering a gritty and adult take on the traditional comic book universe.
A Dance with Dragons is the fifth novel in George R. R. Martin's A Song of Ice and Fire series. The book follows multiple storylines, including Daenerys Targaryen's struggles to maintain control in Meereen, Tyrion Lannister's journey across the Narrow Sea, and Jon Snow's challenges at the Wall. The novel explores themes of power, loyalty, and survival in a world torn apart by war and magic.
George R.R. Martin is an author and a television producer and writer. He’s most famous for his series, “A Song of Ice and Fire,” which was then adapted by HBO into the overwhelmingly popular television drama, “Game of Thrones.” In 2017, Time Magazine dubbed him an “American Tolkien.” He joins Google for a Q&A session and to share more about his novel, "A Dance with Dragons."
Originally published in August 2011. Watch this episode at youtube.com/TalksAtGoogle.
Talks at Google 
