Book Review: Norse Mythology, Neil Gaiman

Title: Norse Mythology
Author: Neil Gaiman
Published: 07/02/2017, Bloomsbury Publishing
Pages: 256
Source: Goodreads Giveaway
Format: ARC - Paperback
Rating: 3.5/5
Neil Gaiman has long been inspired by ancient mythology in creating the fantastical realms of his fiction. Now he turns his attention back to the source, presenting a bravura rendition of the great northern tales. In Norse Mythology, Gaiman fashions primeval stories into a novelistic arc that begins with the genesis of the legendary nine worlds; delves into the exploits of the deities, dwarves, and giants; and culminates in Ragnarok, the twilight of the gods and the rebirth of a new time and people. Gaiman stays true to the myths while vividly reincarnating Odin, the highest of the high, wise, daring, and cunning; Thor, Odin's son, incredibly strong yet not the wisest of gods; and Loki, the son of giants, a trickster and unsurpassable manipulator. From Gaiman's deft and witty prose emerges the gods with their fiercely competitive natures, their susceptibility to being duped and to dupe others, and their tendency to let passion ignite their actions, making these long-ago myths breathe pungent life again.

Well... I finally read my very first Gaiman and, I can definitely tell you know, I will be reading more! Norse Mythology is a fantastic, simple and fairly easy read centred on the Norse Gods. Prior to reading Norse Mythology, my knowledge of the Norse Gods was, it's safe to say, very limited. In fact, I think I was only aware of a few of their names. But this book was just so enjoyable that I can't wait to read more about them.

I really enjoyed the characters and Gaiman has a wonderful way of bringing them to life. I particularly liked Loki, though I don't think I would ever want to meet him! Haha! He's just so mischievous and conniving.

Norse Mythology is told via various short stories from a variety of characters. Though they are mainly centred on Odin, Thor and Loki. For someone with next-to-no prior knowledge, I found their stories so unique. Some are quite sad and some are more on the funny side.

I found Norse Mythology a very fast read - I would have probably read it in a day if I'd had the time! I also liked how all the stories sort of linked together - I may be wrong but I think there was a bit of a chronological order to them.

I really enjoyed Norse Mythology and would definitely recommend it those who want to learn or read more about the Norse Gods. I think those who haven't ever read Gaiman before, like me, can also appreciate this collection of stories. I honestly can't wait to read more Gaiman now!

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