Well, now I know what a podcast is.  (Very new apprentice.)

Yes, there are differences between book and tv.  First, I wondered if JB had intended for tv writers to explore two or three years before first book.  That way they wouldn't step on his plot line until he could advance it further in the books.  Your podcast explained pilot had to be redone, so now that makes sense.

I'm surprised both of you think Harry is like book Harry.  Book Harry is more deadpan, geeky, "shambles" when he walks.  TV Harry is more wisecracking gumshoe, with a *very* mobile face, mercurial, with shiny dark eyes.  I think they are alike in humor and deep desire to avoid sentimentality.  It's a good translation from book to tv, but translation is not same as original.

Bob is great, Bob is wonderful, Bob is a huge improvement over the leering smartass skull in book.  To have a talking skull would be too cartoony.  Where does this endless stream of British (he is Brit, right?) character actors come from?  My husband has not read the books, doesn't like the show much, but thinks Bob is great.  And what a gig!  He can be over the top and still be perfect.

Eewe! Did Harry have to fall for redheaded werewolf?  SUCH a chump where women are concerned--just like the book.

Big challenge: who could they possibly cast as Michael? As Lasciel?  Wow!  Can't wait!