TestFirst published in 2001, American Gods became an instant classic—an intellectual and artistic benchmark from the multiple-award-winning master of innovative fiction, Neil Gaiman. Now discover the mystery and magic of American Gods in this tenth anniversary edition. Newly updated and expanded with the author’s preferred text, this commemorative volume is a true celebration of a modern … volume is a true celebration of a modern masterpiece by the one, the only, Neil Gaiman.
A storm is coming . . .
Locked behind bars for three years, Shadow did his time, quietly waiting for the magic day when he could return to Eagle Point, Indiana. A man no longer scared of what tomorrow might bring, all he wanted was to be with Laura, the wife he deeply loved, and start a new life.
But just days before his release, Laura and Shadow’s best friend are killed in an accident. With his life in pieces and nothing to keep him tethered, Shadow accepts a job from a beguiling stranger he meets on the way home, an enigmatic man who calls himself Mr. Wednesday. A trickster and rogue, Wednesday seems to know more about Shadow than Shadow does himself.
Life as Wednesday’s bodyguard, driver, and errand boy is far more interesting and dangerous than Shadow ever imagined—it is a job that takes him on a dark and strange road trip and introduces him to a host of eccentric characters whose fates are mysteriously intertwined with his own. Along the way Shadow will learn that the past never dies; that everyone, including his beloved Laura, harbors secrets; and that dreams, totems, legends, and myths are more real than we know. Ultimately, he will discover that beneath the placid surface of everyday life a storm is brewing—an epic war for the very soul of America—and that he is standing squarely in its path.
Relevant and prescient, American Gods has been lauded for its brilliant synthesis of “mystery, satire, sex, horror, and poetic prose” (Michael Dirda, Washington Post Book World) and as a modern phantasmagoria that “distills the essence of America” (Seattle Post-Intelligencer). It is, quite simply, an outstanding work of literary imagination that will endure for generations.
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I love Neil Gaiman’s writing, but found this book confusing. I think I’ll understand it better on a second reading.
All books by this author I’ve found to be great reads
Slightly slower than I expected, you have to keep pushing to read it, but the double crosses are fantastic.
This has to be the most unusual book I think I’ve ever read. I’m not ever sure how to describe it other than very imaginative with a thread of possible reality mixed in. I was not ever sure how to rate it so it gets 4 stars.
This unique take on gods and America kept me turning the page and coming back for more. Long after I closed the book certain moments resonated with me, mostly in Shadow’s journey but others as well. Truly a remarkable book!
Fun book with unconventional archetypes of characters.
Fun
Full cast Audio Book is exceptional.
For 13 years Jack Kerouac’s On The Road On the Road has been my favorite book. I’ve reread it countless times and even visited the original scroll at the New York Public Library. American Gods is similar in the sense that it’s about a lost character, road tripping around the country, and meeting strange characters along the way.
This is the …
LOVE this book!
Everything I love in a book. Gaiman is amazing!
It’s Gaiman. Enough said.
Excellent read! Gain an doesn’t disappoint.
I don’t think this book needs another five star review, but just note: I seldom give five star reviews. This book urged me to redefine what my relationship with the sacred was, expanded my understanding of the downside of cultural appropriation, and engaged me with the issues involved when Gods prove to be all too human. But the thing is – all …
A great core idea and Neil Gaiman’s great writing… this is one of my favorites.
What is there to say about Neil Gaiman that hasn’t already been said? What a fascinating, creative mind. This book is about as well constructed as any. And if you have ever lived in the mid-west you’ll recognize the highways, towns and word pictures Neil makes. Simply wonderful fantasy otherwise.
This was a completely fresh take on some of my favorite mythologies, brought together in ways I don’t believe I would ever have have imagined myself.
One of my most favorite stories, ever.
Incorporated broad knowledge of myths from a range of cultures.
Unforgettable scenes
Neil Gaiman is just a genius.