How do you follow up the Olympians, a 12-volume series of graphic novels that took more than a decade to come out? With another series of graphic novels, ones that focus on Norse mythology, naturally. George O'Connor is back with more mythological adventures, and I am glad to say that this new series is just as excellent (so far), even though it tackles a much different sort of culture and ethos. The Norse gods and legends have a much more earthy feel, with a lot of literal spit and blood (among other bodily fluids) involved in the proceedings. The artwork is also subtly different, and O'Connor is mindful to change his art style and coloring to suit different subject matter.
This volume follows Odin, the king of the gods and warrior, searcher, and man of many faces and names. Among the adventures here, he loses an eye, gains great wisdom, battles giants, and travels the nine realms. Additionally, much of this book introduces the narrative world of Norse mythology, conveying an excellently detailed account of this strange, new universe. It features many weird creatures, like six-armed maws, beardless dwarfs, and an eagle full of mead. I learned so much from it, including just how much I did not know about these stories, because I have read tons of Marvel Comics about them and the actual source material is waaaaaay different, even if the names are the same. If you like reading about myths and having your mind blown, this book is for you.
In addition to all of his graphic novels adapting mythology, O'Connor has adapted the American history journal account Journey into Mohawk Country and illustrated the dystopian future book Ball Peen Hammer, written by Adam Rapp. He also drew the political graphic novel Unrig: How to Fix Our Broken Democracy with author Daniel G. Newman. He speaks about his work on Odin in this interview.
All of the reviews I have read about it have been celebratory. Kirkus Reviews gave it a starred entry that summed up, "A rainbow bridge to a fresh set of mythological places and faces." Chris Cole concluded his review, "Overall, this book was a great start to the series. I’m excited to follow it to Ragnarok." Benjamin Russell called it "an excellent authority in distilling the complexities of Norse mythology and making it accessible to younger readers interested in folklore."
Odin was published by First Second, and they provide more information and a preview here. Because of violence, bodily fluids, and booze, I recommend this book for middle school and above readers.
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