Who Would Like This Book:
This iconic graphic novel series is a surreal blend of mythology, fantasy, and horror with a distinctly literary twist - think dreamlike stories about gods, endless beings, and the power of storytelling itself. "Preludes & Nocturnes" sets the stage for Dream's larger journey, weaving in touches of classic horror comics and DC universe cameos. If you love dark atmospheres, clever writing, and stories about myths, dreams, and what lies beyond the ordinary, you’ll find a lot to love here. Perfect for fans of mature fantasy, urban legends, and philosophical musings, as well as anyone curious about what happens when comics go from pulp to high art.
Who May Not Like This Book:
Some readers might be put off by the early issues’ uneven pacing or the heavy horror vibes, including disturbing scenes that can feel intense or uncomfortable. The art style in the opening volume can be jarring or dated for modern tastes, and the DC superhero elements might feel out-of-place if you’re coming just for the fantasy. Also, if you’re looking for stories focused solely on relatable, everyday humans, the metaphysical tone and sweeping cosmic scope of this book may not be your jam.
About:
Preludes & Nocturnes (The Sandman) by Neil Gaiman is a groundbreaking graphic novel that delves into the realm of dreams and mythology. The story begins with Morpheus, the Lord of Dreams, who is imprisoned by an occultist seeking immortality. His subsequent quest to reclaim his lost artifacts leads him through a dark and fantastical landscape populated by gods, demons, and mortals, while exploring profound themes of identity, power, and existence.
The writing style is described as rich and evocative, with Gaiman weaving together elements of horror, fantasy, and the banal aspects of life into a unique narrative. Although the artwork has received mixed reviews, the character development and intricate storytelling capture the reader’s imagination. As Gaiman artfully blends contemporary life with mythological references, readers are invited to ponder deep questions through the experiences of both omnipotent beings and ordinary humans.
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Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings
Content warnings include themes of sexual violence, abuse, and dark psychological elements.
From The Publisher:
One of the most popular and critically acclaimed graphic novels of all time, Neil Gaiman's award-winning masterpiece The Sandman set the standard for mature, lyrical fantasy in the modern comics era. Illustrated by an exemplary selection of the medium's most gifted artists, the series is a rich blend of modern and ancient mythology in which contemporary fiction, historical drama, and legend are seamlessly interwoven.
Ratings (132)
Incredible (38) | |
Loved It (53) | |
Liked It (28) | |
It Was OK (10) | |
Did Not Like (2) | |
Hated It (1) |
Reader Stats (268):
Read It (140) | |
Currently Reading (2) | |
Want To Read (73) | |
Not Interested (53) |
6 comment(s)
Overall I think this series is overhyped. It has an occasional good moment here and there, but it is too inconsistent. All of the modern day stories are just boring and pointless. The history, myths and some of the folklore are good but it makes me want to put it down and read the source material. In many ways it reminds of preacher in that nothing really happens. Definitely glad that I'm done with it.
Audio was too hard to follow along with, Netflix show made finishing redundant. Plus…Neil Gaiman. See web if need reminder of his scandal.
My first experiment with graphic novels. It is a different experience and a good one. Story plot seems interesting. Surely interested to know more about The Sandman.
Mandatory reading for any comic book fan.
Bueno, mas cruel de lo que lo imaginaba. Es una buena introduccion al mundo Sandman, aunque aun esta calentando motores.
Aun siguen sin gustarme las portadas, ya se que son arte y tal, pero a mi personalmente me disgusta que sean tan inconsistentes con el resto del estilo.
Slow and interesting. The exposition of the side characters felt like a firehose of unimportant information. I like the character of Dream, he feels very grand like an immortal force should.
What can you read after
Preludes & Nocturnes?
About the Author:
Neil Gaiman is the New York Times bestselling author of the Newbery Medal-winning The Graveyard Book and Coraline, the basis for the hit movie. His other books include Anansi Boys, Neverwhere, American Gods, and Stardust, (winner of the American Library Association's Alex Award as one of 2000's top novels…
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