Neil Gaiman
This post is a bit late, but I have been trying out a “one post a day” schedule lately. Anyhoozle, so I finished the fourth volume of The Sandman series. Let me tell you, and I am not exaggerating–this volume is one of the best things I have ever read. I loved it. It’s the best in the series (so far). Unlike the three volumes that came before it, this one focuses on setting up major events I am sure will follow into the later volumes. We see much more of Dream, learn about his habits (moody Dream is possibly my favorite thing of this volume) and learn details about his siblings. I liked the drama that unfolded, I liked the ending. I even liked the bit that interrupted the main story featuring the education of Charles Rowland.
I am a big nerd when it comes to mythological figures, and this volume has an abundance of them. Remember when I told you how I like stories pulling details from earlier parts? How it makes me feel special because I was able to remember the little things? Well I also love when stories use outside knowledge inside the plot. It makes me tingly with happiness because I feel smart, as if I understood some kind of inside joke. If I don’t get a piece of the story, I have something to look up at work. Neil Gaiman is a very clever and engaging writer, and these qualities really come out in this volume. If I was debating whether or not this series was going to hold my interest, all doubt is now gone. I sincerely recommend this volume to everyone! My official rating? 5/5
Also, how do you like my little cover image there? I am trying to figure out all the cool things I can do with images for these reviews. Let me know if I should keep including the cover.
I think you might consider including a favorite panel from the book when you’re reviewing a comic, but yes, like the inclusion of pictures!
there are whole books written that analyze Sandman’s many layers and allusions. We geeks ALL love the complexity, the references to earlier seemingly small bits, and allusions to literature and mythology. Basically, being geeks, we like to be able to quietly pat ourselves on the backs for our cleverness in recognizing some arcane something or other. But only quietly, and in private, because we’re geeks–we don’t do that whole arrogant LOOK AT ME I’M SO SMART thing.
and Neil is always very obliging with his subtle allusions and inclusions, so that you never think HE’S being arrogant or self-important, including things just for the sake of looking smart. It’s still all about the story with him.
…I’m totally high on lack of sleep, so the gods only know what I just wrote…it is VERY SINCERE though, even if nonsensical. Man, I love Sandman, nothing makes me think more or about more things. And nothing makes me spew more geeky ramblings, except possibly Harry Potter and Lord of the Rings.