From the opening chapter of the novel, American Gods, to the closing pages, Neil Gaiman keeps the reader walking the fine line between being uncomfortable and being entertained. The story of Shadow, a man recently released from jail and thrown into an adventure pitting gods against each other, is one of many clever references, allusions, and events. Anyone with even a very basic knowledge of world mythology will appreciate Gaiman’s ability to portray mythological gods living in a moder n day setting. Such characters as Odin, Anubis, Anansi, and Loki were given human forms to live with reduced power in today’s society. If it wasn’t for multiple disturbing scenes, this book would have been one of our favorites. As it is, the few questionable scenes obscured the otherwise enjoyable plotline. Overall, we would all recommend this book for its spontaneous, clever, and creative plot, despite some questionable subject matter. - Maria, Andy, Geoff, class of 2011
When one thinks of an American God, often what comes to mind are superheroes such as Superman or Captain America. However in Neil Gaiman’s fictional novel American Gods, the main character, Shadow Moon, is no hero, rather an ex-convict who can’t catch a break but has nothing to lose. He is recruited by the all father, Mr. Wednesday, to complete a series of dangerous tasks in order to keep the other deities alive. Shadow travels the United States, battling the rival group the “New Gods”, all while get ting kidnapped, caught in between Godly battles and fighting an internal struggle concerning which side of Gods to help. However, to high school readers, it may be difficult to relate to Shadow and his other worldly escapades. At some points in this novel, there are scenes of graphic adult nature, seemingly out of place and superfluous. Hence, this novel is confusing and complicated at various times, but the journey of Shadow finding himself makes the read worthwhile. Connor and Sam, class of 2011
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