Neil Gaiman, long inspired by ancient mythology in creating the fantastical realms of his fiction, presents a bravura rendition of the Norse gods and their world from their origin though their upheaval in Ragnarok.
In Norse Mythology, Gaiman stays true to the myths in envisioning the major Norse pantheon: Odin, the highest of the high, wise, daring, and cunning; Thor, Odin's son, incredibly strong yet not the wisest of gods; and Loki--son of a giant--blood brother to Odin and a trickster and unsurpassable manipulator.
Gaiman fashions these primeval stories into a novelistic arc that begins with the genesis of the legendary nine worlds and delves into the exploits of deities, dwarfs, and giants. Through Gaiman's deft and witty prose, these gods emerge with their fiercely competitive natures, their susceptibility to being duped and to duping others, and their tendency to let passion ignite their actions, making these long-ago myths breathe pungent life again.
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I really enjoyed reading all the different stories about the Norse Gods. Most of them of course involve Loki (who doesn't love a good Loki Story?). Gaiman told these stories so well that once you start you won't want to stop. Also if you get the audiobook it is read by Neil Gaiman himself.
HPB Staff ReviewThis book is great! Neil Gaiman was able to take pieces of ancient stories and combine them in a logical way to make sense of Norse Mythology. He introduces the readers to the history behind the gods while telling intriguing tales of their triumphs and their failures. For someone like me, a lay person of Norse Mythology, I could understand and follow the stories and actually make sense of the movements of the worlds. I did not know what to expect when I picked it up. Then I couldn't let it go. I read it in one sitting. It is an easy and exciting read with enough entertainment to keep my interest! It was nice to read about the myths that "don't make the comics". I can see myself sharing the stories in this book around a campfire or on a night when the power is out. An instant favorite for me.
HPB Staff ReviewNeil Gaiman has made re-learning Norse Mythology exciting and addicting. In fact, his clever introduction pulls you in before reading any tales. In all mythology, there are gods, goddesses, and creatures that you fall in love with and cannot stand. These tales are no different and with every tale you change your mind about these beings. With the revival of Norse fascination (thanks to Marvel), it is great to reconnect with the actually stories of Thor, Odin, Loke, Feyre Sith, and other favorites. I am excited to continue reading these tales and being introduced to some that I do not know.
HPB Staff Review