Taking a few modern liberties with the stories, GaimansNo contemporary fiction writer gets more of his power from the mythological tradition than Neil Gaiman. . . . As always, Gaimans a charming raconteur . . . [and he] recognizes a ripping yarn when he sees one.A gripping, suspenseful and quite wonderful reworking of these famous tales. Once you fall into the rhythm of its glinting prose, you will happily read on and on, in thrall to Gaimans skillful storytelling.Weaving together ancient Norse mythology with 21st-century sensibility, Gaiman's storytelling once again recreates an entire genre for the modern reader.In reinterpreting the tales so faithfully and with such abundant joy, Gaiman assumes the role of fireside bard, inviting us to sit close on a chilly winters night and chuckle and wonder along with him.Gaimans masterful storytelling transcends our most vivid dreams, exploring ancient territory from a fantastically fresh perspective. . . . [and inviting us] to listen to stories in the same way we would as children: engrossed and enraptured by the magic of myth. . . . [Mr. Gaiman milks [the Norse gods hijinks] for all their humor and incongruity, very much in the spirit of the originals. . . . [He] has produced . . . a clear, continuous narrative, with big scenes the same as they always were but with emotional pointers added.Remarkable. . . . Gaiman has provided an enchanting contemporary interpretation of the Viking ethos.Introducing an instant classicmaster storytellerNeil Gaiman presents a dazzling version of thegreat Norse myths.