Viking Myths: Stories of the Norse Gods and Goddesses

by Thor Ewing (Illustrator)

From its first beginnings in a world of primordial ice floes, the story of the Viking gods is one of continual struggle against etins and monsters, but it is a tale of humour and triumph as well as of grit and tragedy. The Norse myths are justly famous for a host of vivid characters including the wise and enigmatic Odin, the bluff strongman Thor, and the incorrigible trickster Loki. In the first major retelling for a generation, storyteller and historian Thor Ewing rediscovers the brisk vitality with which these ancient myths were told in the earliest sources. With 45 stunning b&w illustrations inspired by Viking art.

Genres: Mythology, Paganism, Spirituality, Classics

204 pages, Paperback

First published April 10, 2014

About the author

Author also writes under John Thor Ewing

Reviews

[Kate Policani · Rating 5 out of 5]

From the surreal tales of the beginnings of everything to the humorous antics of the gods, people, and creatures, anyone can enjoy Viking Myths: Stories of the Norse Gods and Goddesses. Whether you like heroism or bizarre pranks, this collection has something for everyone. Does Loki shave a goddess bald? Why yes. Does he fix it in a fantastic manner? Of course! Thor dresses in drag, Loki becomes the mother of a horse, and Odin trades his right eye for godly wisdom. Grab a really big glass of ale and enjoy Viking Myths. Thor Ewing presents a straightforward telling of the intricate and bizarre myths of the Norse gods. He uses plain language and tells the stories in an understandable progression, considering the wildness and interconnected nature of the stories. I enjoyed the inclusion of the plain translated names of people, creatures, and objects that shed more light on the deeper meanings of the names. The bizarre symbolism of so much of it makes me want to know more about the unique way of thinking of the culture. Thor’s retelling truly kept the magic of the tales alive while bringing clarity to their meanings. I received this book from the author for the purposes of an unbiased review.

[JHM · Rating 4 out of 5]

This collection is accessible rather than epic. Adapted by a storyteller, it uses translations in place of many of the Old Norse names -- a choice which is no doubt deplored by many but which I appreciated. These versions of the tales are a good place to gain a solid, basic grounding in the characters, places, and events, and then go on to more challenging versions.

I also appreciated the Introduction, in which the author explained his editorial decisions and the illustrations (which I thought added a nice touch and were clear and distinct even on my Kindle Paperwhite).

[Rebecca · Rating 5 out of 5]

An incredibly refreshing and quite reinvigorating retelling of the norse gods and their legends. Learnt many new details about the Gods and their events as well as recountered familiar with legends from a new aspect.

[Thor Ewing · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm delighted to be able to present the Viking myths in this new book. As many people will know, I've been telling and retelling these myths for 20 years now with audiences in the UK (and occasionally Norway). But for the book, I've gone back and taken a close look at the original sources.
I hope I've captured not just the plot, but also the spirit of these wonderful stories, and that they give readers as much pleasure as they have given me.

[Thor Ewing · Rating 5 out of 5]

From its first beginnings in a world of primordial ice floes, the story of the Viking gods is one of continual struggle against etins and monsters, but it is a tale of humour and triumph as well as of grit and tragedy. The Norse myths are justly famous for a host of vivid characters including the wise and enigmatic Odin, the bluff strongman Thor, and the incorrigible trickster Loki. In the first major retelling for a generation, storyteller and historian Thor Ewing rediscovers the brisk vitality with which these ancient myths were told in the earliest sources.

[Leanne · Rating 3 out of 5]

2.5 stars rounded up to 3 stars.
On the whole the book was ok/good. It was a very easy read. So accessible to most. Even some young adults would possibly enjoy this. The thing that really made the book score low for me is the anglicisms of Norse words and names (which, yes for some would be welcomed) some of the translations that just off putting and took a bit of "viking" out of the tales. If you want a nice and easy retelling, this book does what it says on the tin, in that respect. If you want a bit more, stick with the sagas.

[Sam · Rating 5 out of 5]

Interesting myths to broaden my understanding of the Vikings.