Book Review: American Gods

Neil Gaiman's American Gods tells the story of what happens to legends and myths when people stop believing. In his novel, the gods walk the earth and many moved to America with their followers, only to be abandoned or forgotten over years and generations. Odin roams the country working as a grifter, while Thoth and Anubis run a funeral parlor.

Shadow, a recent parolee, loses almost everything he has to live for and takes a job working for a grizzled old man named Wednesday. As a result, he becomes involved in a (eternal) life and death struggle between the old gods and the new gods of technology. Shadow learns about himself, the gods, the changing world and love that transcends death.

A truly fascinating concept that is executed to perfection, American Gods is an enjoyable read that rewards more intense scrutiny. For any with an interest in mythology, I highly recommend it with the caveat that the gods may not be quite who you expect, because they have been forgotten and the years have not been kind.

Until later...