Pictures of HBO’s version of the Iron Throne are all over the internet these days — in publicity stills, in the teasers and trailers, probably as wallpaper. Love it.

I thought some of you might enjoy having a look at the FIRST Iron Throne: the one that Bantam had built as the centerpiece of their booth at the 1996 American Booksellers’ Association (ABA) show in Chicago.

photo copyright Andrew I. Porter

The official publication date of A GAME OF THRONES — first edition, first printing, with its now infamous embossed silver foil cover — was still months in the future when the 1996 ABA was held, but Bantam had hundreds of glossy hardcovers there at the show, and gave them all away to booksellers. Which is why I have always regarded the US edition as the true first of GAME, even though the British edition from Harper Collins had an earlier official pubdate. The American edition actually EXISTED earlier, and I handed out hundreds of them to the schools of piranha… er, retailers… who appeared out of nowhere whenever a new giveaway began.

Signed most of ’em too. Often while sitting in the giant Iron Throne. Which was actually made of wood, for what it’s worth. As the show was winding down, Bantam offered to let me have it, but somehow I didn’t think the airline would accept it as checked baggage.

Besides, the thing was really uncomfortable. That part they got just right.

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Here’s the latest treat from the good folks at HBO.

This one is called “Invitation to Westeros.”

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Just a reminder… for me and Ty as much as for you folks…

With the HBO series scheduled to debut on April 17, a lot of new people may be finding their way here. People who have seen the show, but have never read the books.

With that in mind, I think we have to put a lid on all spoilers in the comments (and for that matter, in my own posts). Yes, I know that GAME OF THRONES was published fifteen years ago… but for those who have not read it, it will be brand new, and I want some of the twists and turns and deaths in the book to come as a surprise to new readers in 2011, just as they did for my original readership in 1996.

I have not been consistent about this in the past, I know, even the very recent past… but from this point on, Ty and I are going to try and be more vigilant. All comments that include even glancing references to deaths, maimings, and major plot twists will henceforth be removed without posting. I respectfully request your understanding and cooperation.

Thanks.

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