Norse Mythology

Neil Gaiman

Feb 2017 · W. W. Norton & Company

About this ebook

From the #1 New York Times bestselling author and “one of the modern masters of fantasy writing,” (Huffington Post) a dazzling, witty telling of the Norse myths.

"A lively, funny, and very human rendition of Thor the thunder god, his father Odin, and the dark-hearted trickster Loki (plus countless other gods and monsters)." — Petra Mayer, NPR

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.

Ratings and reviews

Norse Mythology by Neil Gaiman is an extraordinary read that offers a fresh and captivating perspective on the ancient myths of the Viking era. As a fan of both mythology and Gaiman's work, I was excited to pick up this book and I was not disappointed. In fact, I was completely swept away by Gaiman's masterful storytelling and his ability to breathe new life into these age-old tales. One of the things I appreciate most about this book is the way Gaiman honors the source material while also putting his own spin on the stories. He remains true to the original myths while injecting his trademark wit and humor, making the book accessible and enjoyable for readers of all ages. Overall, I highly recommend Norse Mythology to anyone who loves mythology, fantasy, or just great storytelling. It's a beautifully written and thoroughly engaging book that deserves a spot on every bookshelf. Five stars, no question.

I feel like the book isn't as good as it is on audio. This is one of those times reading doesn't do the book justice gaiman has a fun time reading these tales. From what I'm hearing these are short compared to the real Norse tales. I know nothing of Norse mythology so maybe I had alot more fun than most. But if you don't have a clue to what norse even means this books is loads of fun.

Obviously this person knows nothing of Norse mythology. Loki isn't the blood brother of Odin. Odin is his son and secondly it would take a person strong and worthy enough to lift Thor's hammer. Also he wouldn't have to transform into a woman to get his hammer back. This is sickening for a true fan of Norse mythology and god's.

About the author

Neil Gaiman is the New York Times best-selling author of more than twenty books, including The Ocean at the End of the Lane, The Graveyard Book, Coraline, and Neverwhere. His fiction has received Newbery, Carnegie, Hugo, Nebula, and Eisner awards. American Gods and Sandman and Good Omens, written with Terry Pratchett, have aired as TV series. He is professor in the arts at Bard College.