⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Description
In PRELUDES & NOCTURNES, an occultist attempting to capture Death to bargain for eternal life traps her younger brother Dream instead. After his 70 year imprisonment and eventual escape, Dream, also known as Morpheus, goes on a quest for his lost objects of power. On his arduous journey Morpheus encounters Lucifer, John Constantine, and an all-powerful madman.
This book also includes the story “The Sound of Her Wings,” which introduces us to the pragmatic and perky goth girl Death.
Summary
I’m new to reading graphic novels but I was very taken with anniversary editions of The Sandman Vol 1 by US author Neil Gaiman.
Review
Issues #1-8 of Gaiman’s landmark comic book series The Sandman are presented here introducing readers to Dream (Morpheus), the ruler of the Dreaming and the pantheon of the Endless. The narrative arc from 1916 and occultist Roderick Burgess captures Dream for decades and after seventy years in captivity, Morpheus escapes, weakened and without his symbols of power—a pouch of sand, his helm, and a ruby— embarking on a perilous quest to reclaim them.
Gaiman’s Preludes and Nocturnes is a fascinating introduction to a bold reimagining of dark fantasy and graphic novels. There is a a detailed mythology and world building that is unparalleled, combining horror, fantasy, and mythology, history and philosophy. Dream is a solid protagonist: aloof yet vulnerable, driven by duty and the need for reclamation.
Gaiman has created Dream into a world that has moved on from him despite being plagued by sleeping sicknesses. Some sections felt slower while others moved with fluidity. This is often a style Gaiman employs and it works well in this graphic novel.
Conclusion
Preludes and Nocturnes still feels still a sound beginning into exploring what is often considered one of the most influential graphic novel series of all time. The complexity of the world-building and the blend of myth, horror, and scope made it highly enjoyable. A strong character-driven storytelling with emotional depth and dark fantasy elements in a rewarding read.
** This is my personal opinion and does not reflect any judging decisions **
Leanbh Pearson 