A review by writersrelief
American Gods, by Neil Gaiman

dark emotional funny mysterious sad tense slow-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? No
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

5.0

Telling the story of global mythology within the “melting pot,” AMERICAN GODS is a quintessential introduction to the mind of Neil Gaiman. Set in a mostly-real 2001 America, the novel details the journey of the incarcerated Shadow. Exiting prison mere days after the inexplicable death of his wife, Laura, Shadow is approached by the enigmatic Mr. Wednesday. Wednesday offers the reluctant ex-con an accord which seems to guarantee work, sustenance, and service. The reality, though, is a world apart. From Shadow’s acceptance to the end of the novel, the pair and many others traverse a mythological landscape that is set against a backdrop of pure Americana. Sideshows could be displays of supernatural power, and great tourist attractions wells of that same power. Discoveries are made about the power humankind might hold over various shades of the divine. 
 
Throughout the story, there are glimpses into the ideologies of religion, mythology, and the essence behind taking a road trip. AMERICAN GODS is a fantastic, artistic expression of the nature of journey, humanity, mortality, and perception. Though inspired by the spectacle of America, Gaiman draws most heavily on global religion and mythos to generate characters within this magically realistic world he has traveled. Likewise, much of the story was directly inspired by the author’s own predeliction towards wanderlust and the experience that is roadside America. 
 
AMERICAN GODS is a fantastic introduction to Neil Gaiman’s prose. It is also an absolute must-read for fans of mythology—particularly fans of modernized mythos. The vast array of characters from so many cultures makes the story rich, representative, and powerful. Gaiman shows mastery of romance, horror, magical realism, fantasy, history, and the human condition throughout the novel, and he applies, deconstructs, and usurps these genres to create a prolific literary achievement. 
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