Fiction Fridays – American Gods
A few years ago my brother gave me a copy of Neil Gaiman’s novel “American Gods”. I promptly forgot about it, leaving it on a shelf to collect dust. Months later, desperate for some fiction to read I pulled it off the shelf. I couldn’t put it down. Now, before I go any further, I need to make something clear. Gaiman is not a Christian author, nor are his books what one might call “Evangelical friendly”. However, he is a brilliant storyteller, character builder and insightful thinker. This book is a prime example of this combination.
American Gods is a creative blend of mythology and Americana, following the mysterious character Shadow as he travels throughout America serving as a bodyguard for the equally mysterious Mr. Wednesday as he visits other- you guessed it- mysterious characters. We soon learn that these characters of the gods of mythology whose powers are slowly disappearing as their believers forget them. Instead, the new American Gods, such as internet or the media, are taking over. Thus the battle field is set.
Beyond being a very readable book, it is also a fascinating look at beliefs and how our own ideas about God sometimes represent more of ourselves and our cultures than they do of God’s actual nature. While the book is not written to explore the nature of belief, it inevitably raises such questions to the thoughtful reader. It is not a book for all readers, but it is certainly worth reading for the more daring.
Anyone else read it and want to share their thoughts?
I read <i>American Gods</i> a couple of years ago – and loved it so much I went on to read several other Gaiman works. <i>American Gods</i> stills stands as my favorite Gaiman work. I found the imaginative approach almost too much to take at first, but once I made the leap, it was fantastic.
Jeff,
That’s a very good point. It does take something of a leap from normal reading, but as you say, it is worth it. Thanks!
Peace,
Jamie
A very interesting book. Especially in talking with those who don’t believe in any gods at all. Once we recognize that everyone has beliefs about god(s)- even if it is as shallow as TV or the internet. It makes Christians not really seem that crazy believing in the creator of the universe.
Gaiman has also worked with Japanese Anime..including the very good film- Princess Mononoke.
Greg,
Well said. I really enjoyed Princess Mononoke, though I didn’t know Gaiman was involved with it. Thanks!
Peace,
Jamie