Polymath
"Don't buy if it's your first time Sci Fi book"
Usually I don't dabble in the category of Science Fiction type books, but I figured I'd give this a shot...MISTAKE. I wanted to enjoy this book as much as the others who praised and jumped for joy in the other reviews. However, that wasn't the case with this book. I found myself more confused throughout the story. I was never "captured" or "riveted" as some others would say. I couldn't understand where the characters were half of the time and when I finally did figure it out, the author jumped around again. I couldn't easily follow it and perhaps, Science Fiction type books just aren't my thing. Maybe I need to listen to it again (not likely anytime soon.) If they're thinking about making this an HBO mini-series, then it should fit right in with a few of those shows that make you wonder why such a cult following for such a dull story line. Basically, if you have trouble sitting still while watching Dramas on TV, then I'd advise you to skip this book and find something more "up your alley."
Listens while running
"Fantastic Full Cast Production"
I originally read American Gods years ago, not long after it came out. It was my introduction to Neil Gaiman, and I loved it. When the 10th anniversary edition came out, I was quick to snatch it, but when I saw this full cast production, I decided to listen instead of reread in print. It was my first, and thus far only, experience with a full cast production. For me, it was perfect. The main narrator was solid, the voice casting struck me perfectly throughout the story, and the "Coming to America" stories, narrated by Gaiman himself, were possibly my favorite part.
Listening to this version of the book reminded me of listening to old radio programs with my mom (though this has some considerably racier bits than I remember from that!), and while I love solo narration dearly, this form felt perfect for this book.
"OK..."
Maybe it was just me, but this was a hard story to get into in audible form. Too much flipping around from one line to another, felt disjointed, the build up stories weren't very interesting, and so I could not complete listening to it. I might not have stuck it out long enough, but, my listening time is too valuable to hold out too long with boring buildup. I gave it a good effort too - 9 hours out of 20...
"Great book, not so great a preformance"
I would tell them to get another version. The full cast version was not very good.
The way all the mythological figures interacted with the modern world.
I would get one with only one narrator.
The way Shadow's wife was loyal to him after her death.
"Trashy"
I am very careful to read all the reviews on books I read for any hints of a "rating." No mention was made of what a dark and disturbing book this is from the very beginning. There is a stream of swearing throughout but it fits with the disturbing characters who use it. There are vividly described "sex" scenes that really makes one wonder about the mind of someone who conjures up such things in able to write them. I was not able to finish the book as much as I would have liked to because my moral compass simply would not allow me to go on. I have not read anything by Gaiman before and in future I will be sure to skirt around anything with his name on it.
I wish I could put my finger on what it was that I didn't like about the narration. I guess it just felt a little hokey and unreal.
"Decided Not to Finish"
Neil Gaiman is an excellent writer and I could have enjoyed this book except for the excessive swearing and graphic sex. The narration was excellent but after listening to the first part I decided not to listen to the next two parts as I suspected the swearing and graphic sexual descriptions would continue. Just preferred not to fill my mind with those words or thoughts. Unfortunately, I can't say that I felt my time was well spent listening to the first part since I couldn't make myself finish the book, plus I feel as though I've wasted a credit.
I thoroughly enjoyed the Ender series; however, I recognize those books are written more for adolescents than middle-aged adults.
"Fantastic Story with True Storytellers Narrating"
I have not read the print edition, but I greatly enjoyed the full cast in this audio edition. The characters were full of life and the interactions were perfect.
I liked the clues that were given about characters and symbols without actually telling you directly.
I enjoyed the scene where Shadow visited the underworld. It was a turning point in his character.
Yes. Definitely. I finished this book very quickly, carrying my audio device around with me for chores.
"Not Sure If I liked it but Will Listen Again"
I always like a full cast production. It makes it easier to keep track of the characters and there are a lot of them here.
I had no idea where it was going. I'm still not sure if I really understood the last half. I will be listening to this again.
"I like the old edition best."
I enjoyed the full cast but George Guidall is still my favorite. He was able to bring the whole book to life single handed.
"I can't say enough good things"
The performance was amazing. I can't stress enough how much I enjoyed listening to this novel. I've read it before, but this was a whole new experience. Buy it, listen to it, love it. Thank you, Neil Gaiman, for giving us your two cents on the process. I couldn't have enjoyed this more.