American Gods

I saw two hateful reviews, so I felt compelled to write a few good words.

So many writers attempt to create a world with its own mythology, distinct from stereotypes and formulas.Gaiman does this, quite literally, and manages a story worthy among the classics. The only derivitive part concerns its placement among "hidden magical living side-by-side with this world" style novels. Of course, this is a literary technique used in much of the best fantasy, e.g. Hogwarts, Narnia, et cet.

Despite this, the concept behind "American" gods is brilliant and refreshing. Gaiman succeeded in creating a world completely unique, and established a rich purely American mythology, where none previously existed. Characters are fully developed, the epic road story is full of surprises and all without the sugar-coated youth-friendly style required for successful fantasy. Complaining about this novel's "R" rating is weak criticism. The grit and grime is part of the allure of this novel for me, having read enough young adult fantasy novels to last a life-time.

I've read American Gods twice and look forward to reading it again.