'Odd and the Frost Giants' is a short, simple, magical and disarmingly beautiful tale that draws from Viking and Norse mythology.

The noise of the blade hitting the thick icicle cracked off the hills around them, making echoes that sounded as if an entire army of men was hammering on the ice… I recommend it to fans of Thor as portrayed in the marvel cinematic universe. And watching Odd resolve the problems of the Gods is amusing. Some of it may sound unimportant (the fact that Thor is supposed to have a big red beard for example) though things like this are quite important when dealing with Gods. The marvel cinematic universe and the comic book writers do a good job with their personalities, though their actual physical attributes are completely wrong. Gaiman has captured the essence of Odin, Thor and Loki terrifically. The three Gods have been banished from Asgard and their kingdom is now in the hands of the Frost Giants. Odd walks in unawares and offers his help. Loki (who has been transformed into a fox) skulks in the corner bemused. Odin (who has been transformed into an eagle) flies overhead watching the scene. Imagine this: Thor (who has been transformed into a bear) has his paw stuck in a tree after trying to reach a bee’s nest.

Positivity can go a long way and it certainly helps when you stumble across the Gods. He refuses to stop smiling and it is because of this that he succeeds.

He is physically disabled and shunned by his step-father who pushes him out of his family home, though he refuses to give up. This is a children’s tale, though as with all good children’s books it’s perfect for adults too. If you enjoyed Norse Mythology then you will likely adore this. Lavishly produced and packed with Chris Riddell's glorious illustration enhanced with metallic ink, this is a spectacular and magical gift. This rich and layered tale of courage is told with humour and in breathtaking style by two creators at the height of their powers: from the author of modern classics such as American Gods, Coraline and The Sleeper and the Spindle, Odd and the Frost Giants will leave you spellbound. Now our hero must reclaim Thor's hammer, outwit the frost giants and release the gods. The eagle, bear and fox Odd encounters are Norse gods, trapped in animal form by the evil frost giants who have conquered Asgard, the city of the gods. Fleeing to the woods, Odd stumbles upon and releases a trapped bear. Odd, a young Viking boy, is left fatherless following a raid and in his icy, ancient world there is no mercy for an unlucky soul with a crushed foot and no one to protect him. A thrilling, wintry Nordic epic from the truly magical combination of author Neil Gaiman and illustrator Chris Riddell, weaving a tale of legend, magic and adventure which will grip and enchant readers from beginning to end.

Odd neil gaiman