Geschreven bij American Gods
Shadow is released from prison a few days early when his wife dies in a car accident. On the plane back home a mysterious person named Wednesday, who seems well informed of Shadow’s situation, offers him a job. Soon it becomes clear that Wednesday is actually the Norse God Odin. The traditional Gods brought to America by the grace of the belief of immigrants see themselves becoming obsolete in the God-forsaken American society and replaced by new Gods, such as those for highway and television. Wednesday is planning to rouse the old withering Gods in a final stand against the new Gods and Shadow’s commission is to protect Wednesday in his quest, running errands for him when requested.
Shadow, the protagonist of this story comes across as somewhat indifferent, letting the extraordinary events just roll over him as they happen. This may prohibit creating a strong bond with his character, with the result that occasionally -though not often- the story may become a bit of a drag.
Still, the original concept and theme of this book makes it an interesting and well executed read. The many references to (Norse and other) mythological characters are skillfully incorporated into the story and will rouse the interest of the reader to seek out those references.
The story is well written. Gaiman is eloquent and employs an accessible, to-the-point and on occasion very witty writing style. This book makes for a very entertaining pastime read for anyone open to a book of fantasy.