BookPath
Portraits Of His Children
George R. R. Martin

Portraits Of His Children

Quick Answer

Read "Portraits Of His Children" as the 6th book in the Short Story Collections & Novellas (Author Compiled) sequence. This follows the recommended publication order to preserve character development.

Sequence Warning

⚠️ Do NOT read before "Songs The Dead Men Sing" (Book 5)

❓ Can I skip this book?
❌ No — Required

This book is essential to the core narrative and character development.

Verdict Insight: As the 6th installment, this volume is critical for following the central narrative progression and plot development.

Is this helpful?
1992353 pp
The winner of a Nebula and three Hugos invites readers to view his gallery of very unusual portraits--some bizarre, some touching, all unforgettable. Martin is well-known for his television writing for such programs as The Twilight Zone and Beauty and the Beast.
Next Recommended Book

Dreamsongs I

Book #7 of 16 in Series

Complete Series Reading Order

Publication Order

Preserves character reveals and plot twists exactly as the author intended.

Chronological Order

May spoil surprises but improves timeline clarity for deep lore fans.

Order Confidence

high Confidence

Why this order?

Our team of curators analyzes publication history, author interviews, and internal narrative continuity to establish the definitive reading sequence. This ensures zero spoilers and maximum narrative impact.

Why This Order Is Confusing

Many reading lists for Short Story Collections & Novellas (Author Compiled) conflict because early publishers often labeled short story collections as standalone novels, or rearranged internal chronologies for marketing. This guide follows original author intent and narrative continuity to settle the debate for good.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I skip reading Portraits Of His Children?

This book is essential to the core narrative and character development.

Can I read Portraits Of His Children before Songs The Dead Men Sing?

No. We recommend reading Songs The Dead Men Sing first. Portraits Of His Children is the 6th book in the series and follows the core narrative established in earlier volumes.

Is Portraits Of His Children required reading for the Short Story Collections & Novellas (Author Compiled)?

Yes, it is a core installment in the series reading order and contains critical character development and plot progression.

What comes after Portraits Of His Children in the reading order?

The next recommended book after Portraits Of His Children is Dreamsongs I (Book #7).