American Gods: The Tenth Anniversary Edition - Neil Gaiman

American Gods: The Tenth Anniversary Edition

By Neil Gaiman

  • Release Date: 2011-06-21
  • Genre: Contemporary
Score: 4.5
4.5
From 1,591 Ratings
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Description

Since it was first published, American Gods became an instant classic. Now discover the mystery and majesty of American Gods in this beautiful reissue of the Author's Preferred Text edition. Featuring a new preface by Neil Gaiman in honor of the novel's 20th anniversary, this commemorative volume is a true celebration of a modern masterpiece.

Locked behind bars for three years, Shadow did his time, quietly waiting for the magic day when he could return to Eagle Point, Indiana. A man no longer scared of what tomorrow might bring, all he wanted was to be with Laura, the wife he deeply loved, and start a new life. 

But just days before his release, Laura and Shadow’s best friend are killed in an accident. With his life in pieces and nothing to keep him tethered, Shadow accepts a job from a beguiling stranger he meets on the way home, an enigmatic man who calls himself Mr. Wednesday. A trickster and a rogue, Wednesday seems to know more about Shadow than Shadow does himself. 

Life as Wednesday’s bodyguard, driver, and errand boy is far more interesting and dangerous than Shadow ever imagined—it is a job that takes him on a dark and strange road trip and introduces him to a host of eccentric characters whose fates are mysteriously intertwined with his own.

Reviews

  • An Amazing Book

    5
    By skstumm
    Even though it was certainly lengthy, this book was a true page-turner. The characters were fascinating and Gaiman was able to weave them into our world so masterfully. The book left me with an overall sense of fulfillment and contentment. I will admit that if you are not a fan of author's notes and uncut (aka much longer and at time rambling) versions of books, then go with the shorter version of this one. However, I think a lot is to be gained in understanding the characters as well as just being able to spend more time in this captivating world through the longer version. One of my favorite books I have read in a while, would highly recommend.

  • Read the original edition first

    4
    By PatrickRN
    My review of this edition of American Gods likely falls somewhere in the middle of what others have said. However, let me start off by saying that I’m a big fan of Gaiman. American Gods is certainly one of his better works, despite any of my negativity. For the good, the story that Gaiman presents is both compelling and unique. I thoroughly enjoyed the characters and subversive world of the Gods. Gaiman draws the reader in and leaves you with both a sense of wonder and nostalgia for the old Gods and the new. In terms of my complaints, I realized about halfway through that I should not have read this version. The 10th anniversary edition is much longer than the original and definitely gets a bit indulgent and slow. Gaiman himself acknowledges this in his introduction. Although I haven’t read the original edited version, I imagine that it’s an overall better telling. So, my advice is to absolutely read this book whether you’re a fan of Gaiman or just enjoy the idea of “contemporary mythology.” (I made that up). Just don’t read this version unless you’re OK with a pound of extra fat!

  • Great lead up but the climax was anticlimactic. I was like “huh”? That’s the resolution?

    4
    By Enderdog88
    Watch the show first to help picture the characters.

  • Horrible

    1
    By Robert2022
    As much as I tried, was unable to get past 250 pages. I have read “Graveyard”; one of the best books I’ve ever read. So, tried to get through this book. I was hopeful that it had only a few bad chapters. I tried reading the first sentence of paragraphs. Tried putting it down for a couple of days. Couldn’t stay with it. In my life, I’ve been unable to finish 2 books. This is one. The book kinda goes like this ... Here’s a new character. Here’s what they are wearing. Here’s what they look like. Here’s their social status. Here’s their financial status. Here’s where they came from. Here’s where they’re going. Here’s what people think of them. Here’s something they own. Here’s what they are doing. Here’s where they live. Here’s where they lived. Here’s where they are, now. Here’s a strength they have. Here’s a weakness they have. Okay, now here’s maybe conversations and a bit of a story about them, if they are important, or none if they aren't. The character is gone. Repeat over and over and over …. basically an unending repitition of short meetings …. for about 250 pages, which is where I couldn’t stand it, anymore.

  • Perfect for a book club

    5
    By CasDeanSam
    Thought-provoking and full of things to analyze, this book is rich with themes, references, and symbolism to think about, discuss, and re-read. Highly recommend! Super entertaining and fun to read. Also I love Shadow.

  • Fascinating Read

    5
    By Jacob Barker
    I absolutely loved this book. I found myself texting a friend who had already read it when I got to certain points in the book, and I loved using the “look up” feature to help me get a grasp of all the mythology. I’d give it another star if I was able.

  • Sublime and Surreal

    5
    By CheezitTerminator
    I adore stories with so many levels; philosophical, magical, action, dramatic arcs,snappy dialogue. Even more, I enjoy a story that is complete at all those levels. Take what you found, be it a new philosophical mindset or a rueful shake of the head at roadside tourist traps. Happy Trails!

  • Fantastic

    5
    By Aurelia5
    I liked everything about this book. And I liked that it was so long. I feel like I’ve been in his world. I’ll look at people I meet much more carefully now.

  • Great

    5
    By PJohnson2025
    Amazing story telling

  • Easy Reading for the Thinking Man

    4
    By Khaleel O.
    What I liked most about this book was the author’s style of writing. His easygoing style and flow make it a pleasure and a breeze to read. No words, scenarios or characters are wasted. No loose ends. No cheapness. The story is amazing and juicy with enough excitement to keep you hooked and entertained. The only complaint is that it feels rushed, even lazily written at times. Almost as if the author didn’t care to fill in certain details which would have added value. He jumps from scene to scene a bit too quickly and you feel as if he is eager to get to the next plot point.

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