Amazon.com

Three time Newbery honor author Nancy Farmer's epic fantasy, The Sea of Trolls, is gigantic in every way. There are big Vikings and bigger trolls. There are big themes--hope, despair, life and death. At a substantial 450+ pages, the sheer size of this hefty tome is impressive. But, like all of Farmer's fine work, the large scale has room for enormous quantities of heart and humor. At the center of this massive adventure is a small Saxon boy named Jack, who's never been much good at anything until the Bard of his medieval village makes him an apprentice. Then, just as Jack is learning to tap into and control his power, he is kidnapped (along with his little sister, Lucy) and taken to the court of King Ivar the Boneless and his half troll queen Frith. When one of Jack's amateur spells causes the evil queen's beautiful hair to fall out, he is forced to undertake a dangerous quest across the Sea of Trolls to make things right, or suffer the consequences--the sacrifice of his beloved sister to Frith's patron goddess, Freya. Along the way Jack faces everything from giant golden troll-bears to man-eating spiders, yet each frightening encounter brings wisdom and understanding to the budding young Bard. No quester who enters these pages with Jack will go away unsatisfied. Farmer's skillful melding of history, mythology, and humor, is reminiscent of both Tamora Pierce and Terry Pratchett's medieval fantasies, and will no doubt be HUGELY enjoyed by fantasy readers of all ages. --Jennifer Hubert ... Read more

Book Description

The companion to D'Aulaires' Book of Greek Myths, a treasured part of so many children's libraries, has returned to print after more than twenty years. The Caldecott medal-winning d'Aulaires once again captivate their young audience with this beautifully illustrated introduction to Norse legends, telling stories of Odin the All-father, Thor the Thunder-god and the theft of his hammer, Loki the mischievous god of the Jotun Race, and Ragnarokk, the destiny of the gods. Children meet Bragi, the god of poetry, and the famous Valkyrie maidens protecting Odin's Valhalla, among other gods, goddesses, heroes, and giants. Textured illustrations throughout depict the wondrous other world of Norse folklore and its fantastical Northern landscape. Includes color illustrations throughout. ... Read more

Book Description

Before time as we know it began, gods and goddesses lived in the city of Asgard. Odin All Father crossed the Rainbow Bridge to walk among men in Midgard. Thor defended Asgard with his mighty hammer. Mischievous Loki was constantly getting into trouble with the other gods, and dragons and giants walked free. This collection of Norse sagas retold by author Padraic Colum gives us a sense of that magical time when the world was filled with powers and wonders we can hardly imagine. ... Read more

Book Description

Reviews (1)

A letdown
I was dissapointed after reading this one. I'm tempted to say I hate it, especially in comparison to number eight. Way too much of Skurai for my taste, and a lot of it brings out some of the more annoying traits in a lot of the charecters. I hope number ten is better because number nine was just plain mediocre. Though Fenris has some good moments in the begining of the book hehe ^_^ ... Read more

Book Description

Memories of Shadow... Witches and wizards from across Midgard have gathered in Geffin, city of magic, to celebrate their art. But while festivities fill the streets, fierce battles rage on in the city’s darkest corners. In the subterranean caverns of Alfheim, Loki battles Geffin’s corrupted viceroy for control of an ancient power while Chaos crosses swords with his nemesis, Skurai, in a battle to the death. In the fight for the future, the shadows of the past must be brought to light. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

A little rushed?
Without giving away any major spoilers, parts of this book really disappointed me. I feel that the plot overall seems a little rushed - events happen without much description or detail. The ending is very vague, with no preview of the cover for the next book. And who knows when we'll see the next Ragnarok - there's no release date from tokyopop!

Ragnarok again
One of my favorite mangas the worst thing about Ragnarok is waiting for the next one, and wondering if tokyopop is going to release more of them after 10 (nothing on there site about 11+, and i know it goes higher then that) all in all worth your time and money. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Imagine the bravest, fiercest Norwegian warriors that ever lived,carrying a baby prince across blizzard-wracked mountains to save his life.Picture the babe's mother undergoing a cruel, brutal test to prove her son isindeed the bona fide prince of Norway. A fairy tale? No, this is a true story,based on the account written in 1264 by Sturla Tordsson, about the Middle Ages'most powerful king during what are known as Norway's Golden Years.Norwegian-born author Lise Lunge-Larsen tells the story of this king'smiraculous adventure in infancy, while woodcut artist Mary Azarian stunninglydepicts the heroism of the birch-bark armored peasant warriors, theBirkebeiners.

Mary Azarian was awarded the Caldecott Medal for her lovely woodcutillustrations in SnowflakeBentley. Lunge-Larsen is the award-winning author of The Troll with No Heart in HisBody and The Legend ofthe Lady Slipper. (Ages 4 and older) --Emilie Coulter ... Read more

Reviews (5)

Wonderful Book
This is a gorgeous book with illustrations that are breathtaking in their beauty. As for the content, it is a fascinating story. The Christian content of the book is not as inappropriate as a previous review made it seem. No more so than any of the other well-done books centered on other religions. The violence is not troublesome , either, unless one expects their children to be in a position to carry red hot irons at home or school! I would hope that when exposing children to the many facets and experiences the world has to offer, we don't deprive them of wonderful books such as these simply to conform to a contemporary politically correct outlook.

Be careful with young/sensitive children...
This book is beautifully illustrated and the language developmentally appropriate for children as young as four, but my six-year old niece was horrified when Queen Inga goes through the "Trial of Irons" (carrying red hot iron bars from one end of the church to the other). Also, we are not a Christian family, and I found the continual references to the Church and God and miracles overbearing and preachy, even if they are in keeping with the original saga. I would suggest parents use caution before ordering this book, as gorgeously done as it is.

A Norwegian Miracle.....
The Birkebeiners were peasants and fierce warriors in the Middle Ages whose King sat on the throne of Norway. Their rivals, the Baglers, were rich noblemen who wanted to claim the throne for themselves. In 1206, the King had died and left behind an infant son, Prince Hakon. His Queen, Inge, hid her baby for over a year to keep him safe, but as the Baglers became stronger, and threatened the life of the prince, she realized it was time to travel north to Nidaros where the Birkebeiners would protect them, and the prince could take his rightful place on the throne. She asked the priest, Sira Trond, for help, and he gathered the best and bravest men of his small village. To outwit the Baglers, this small band of Birkebeiners decided to ski over the mountains at the darkest, coldest, most dangerous time of the year, braving fierce storms to bring their Queen and baby Prince to safety..... Take a slice of engaging medieval history, add beautiful and evocative artwork, and you have The Race Of The Birkebeiners. Based on Sturla Tordsson's account of the escape and rescue of Norway's future King Hakon, written in 1264, Lise Lunge-Larsen has authored a compelling picture book that's sure to mesmerize youngsters with its powerful story. Her dramatic text is full of atmosphere and suspense, and begs to be read aloud. Mary Azarian's rich, bold and colorful woodcut illustrations transport the reader back to Medieval times, and on this long ago journey over mountains, through snowstorms, and darkness to safety. With an afterword detailing King Hakon's reign, Norway's Golden Years, and how the Birkebeiners are still honored today for their bravery and heroism, this is an exceptional and captivating story children 5-9 shouldn't miss.

The true legend of "The Race of the Birkebeiners" in 1206
Every year I pay scant attention to the running of the Duluth Birkebeiner and certainly had never heard the origin of the name. Now, because of this delightful children's book I know the Birkebeiners were Norwegian warriors who went into battle with birchbark wrapped around their legs instead of costly armor, ergo Birkebeiners ("birchleggers"). Well, anyhow in the year 1206 the fierce Birkenbeiners had to bring the infant prince Hakon Hakonsson to Nidaros. Since they were rescuing a royal infant in danger to bring peace to their land and ended up spending Christmas in Lillehammer, "The Race of the Birkenbeiners" is certainly something that can be put under the tree for children of Norwegian descent, whether they like cross-country skiing or not. Lisa Lunge-Larsen tells the tale as if she were spinning it in front of a roaring fire and Mary Azarian's detailed woodcuts lend the requisite authenticity to this medieval tale. This is a wonderful book and if you kids look at you askance when you push it upon them, just tell them Hakon Hakonsson was the 13th century's Harry Potter. But once they open the book, they are going to love it.

Winter Wonderful
We collect all books beautiful for our home education library,
this was another excellent find. Mary Azarian is an all-time favorite; Lise Lunge-Larsen tells the story with suspence and
wonder. Historical intrique for both boys & girls...a great example of Medieval times that take place somewhere other than
English countryside. This family appreciates the colorful text
that will surely enhance language skills. Holiday gift or for
home education, this one is a MUST HAVE! ... Read more

Book Description

The winds of change are blowing in Midgard.After a 1000-year slumber the Wolf Goddess, Fenris, has been reincarnated in the body of a beautiful warlock.As she searches the land for the reincarnation of the god Balder, she is hunted by the arrogant young Valkyrie, Sara Irine. Her quest will take her to the far corners of Midgard where she will meet and be joined the magical princess Iris, the air headed thief Lidia, and Chaos, a powerful warrior with no memory of his past. ... Read more

Reviews (4)

You Leave Without Owning This Book And You Shall Die Shamed!
This is what I and Many others Have been waiting for!!! No one ever expected this good of things to com from Myung- Jin Lee! A Job Well done though!!!! Myung- Jin Lee must now get to work on the movies and Visual Ragnarok!!!
(P.S. Myung-Jin Lee has Already helped in the making of the Game Ragnarok... Although it just became P2P ( Pay to Play )It is Very good...

Excellent manwha series
A great series with an engaging story and lots of action. My only gripe is that the translator (Richard Knaak) did a mediocre job of translating some text and phrases in certain scenes that just don't fit. The "sound-fx" text also was pretty bad. I.E. Hop, hop, hop...what is that?

Also, I remember reading an earlier preview from someone saying that this was quote "...an awesome manga..." technically it's a Korean comic in which they call it manwha in their language. Manga is comic for Japanese.

Ragnarok Forever!
This is definitly an awesome manga! The plot is extremely original, you can easily bond with the characters, and the art is simply magnificent! Myung-jin Lee has really done a wonderful job, and I'm sure he'll continue to do so throughout the series. For all those who love manga, I highly recommend Ragnarok.

Great manga!!
This is one of my favorites because of my love for Norse mythology, and the game Valkyrie Profile. It has a lot of action, some humor and really nicely done art work. Ragnarok has some awsome images and material. Very well researched. Highly recomended!! ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Wicked Awesome
This has got to be the best book in the series, period. I can't say anything, cause that would be telling, but a surprising coupe is hinted at and I love the pairing and have stood by it since first reading it. Humpr, drama, and intrigue are all masterfully woven in this volume of Ragnarok. Buy it today. ... Read more

Book Description

From the creation of the universe, to its heroic battles for order, the fourteen intriguing myths in this collection come together to tell one powerful story. Young readers will be fascinated by characters like Odin, the greatest of gods, and the mighty Thor, who is able to take down vicious monsters much larger than himself. The powerful, beautifully written stories are graced by Troy Howell's arresting, dramatic paintings. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

Okay
This is more like Norse Myths for Dummies. It doesn't go into great detail, but it tells you enough of the myths so you know what's going on.

It is more for the youger groups or people who want to know the basics of Norse myths. If you're looking to do a report or to become a Norse guru, I wouldn't recommend this book.

Excellent
Mary Pope Osborne is the author of the Magic Tree House series of kids books. She tells a good story.

I learned next to nothing about Norse myths when I was a kid. My Swedish American husband checked this book out of the library to read to our 5 y.o. daughter. It was over her head then (7 y.o. is probably more appropriate), but hubby and I really enjoyed it. We've checked it out numerous times since, and probably should just buy it already! It's a fun referrence book.

Most true to actual Norse Myths.
As an advocate for pure mythology, I am pleased to say that this book is an excellent piece of historical literature. Many stories tend to stray away or add to the original writings of myths, but not this one. It goes without saying that the authors of this book did their homework and researched the actual tales. The art is magnificant, and really adds to the quality of the work. If you have children who are tired of the repeated Greek Classics, then I highly recommend this twist on the myths. I think they will appreaciate the change. Remember, this is not some watered down piece of work, this is as close, in chidren's books, to the true nature of Norse Myth as you will find. An excellent piece of work ... Read more

Book Description

The winds of change are blowing in Midgard.After a 1000-year slumber the Wolf Goddess, Fenris, has been reincarnated in the body of a beautiful warlock.As she searches the land for the reincarnation of the god Balder, she is hunted by the arrogant young Valkyrie, Sara Irine. Her quest will take her to the far corners of Midgard where she will meet and be joined the magical princess Iris, the air headed thief Lidia, and Chaos, a powerful warrior with no memory of his past. ... Read more

Reviews (13)

Ragnarok 1
Ragnarok is a manga based on Norse mythology, yet with a more futuristic style. In this we see well drawn and realistic characters, most laid out with very interesting armor and battle costumes.
The story basically follows a girl named Fenris Fenrir, who is on a quest to find Balder and bring about Ragnarok (the fall of the gods) much to the dislike of the gods themselves which leaves much room for battle between her and the god-sent valkries.
I found Fenris's cool composure to be very interesting for a character personality and equally enjoyed the humor shared between other characters such as Iris and Chaos.
There is quite a bit of violence, but aside from that and a little skimpy clothing, nothing much objectionable.
Both the storyline and drawing is superb, a definate must-have for all hard-core otaku.

An...interesting take on some old myths...
I'm not saying that this a bad series--far from it! This happens to be one of my favorites. But being the student of mythology that I am, I can't help but notice the differences between this series and the original myths.

If you have read 'Terrible Master Urd' from the Oh My Goddess! series, then you have seen Fenris, the giant wolf of Norse legend. In the original story, he (Fenris) was chained in the far north by the gods for all eternity. But he broke free during the chaos of Ragnarok (the end of the world/the war of the gods and spirits) and swallowed the sun. This is a far cry from the beautiful young woman who goes into an old temple for a sword.

Baldur was a handsome young god who was killed by Loki (the god of mischief), thus ensuring Loki's banishment from Asgard (the home of the gods). In retaliation Loki gathers together an army of frost giants and demons to attack Asgard, starting Ragnarok. But in this story, it is Baldur who attempted to overthrow the gods, not Loki.

There are too many other differences to name, but they are not serious (actually, none of them really are very serious.) And they certainly won't detract from your enjoyment of this series. As a matter of fact, it is pretty nice to see another perspective on the legends surrounding Ragnarok.

This is a wonderful series with a lot going for it, even if they do mess with the myths.

Wizard needs food badly...
Ragnarok is kinda-sorta based on the Korean MMORPG of the same name. This would certainly explain why the cast sounds just like the character line-up for a FF game... The magic user who is a princess, the capricious thief, the steely-eyed assassin, and of course the rugged hero who has the power to save the world from the ENCROACHING DARKNESS (tm)...

To put it mildly, the story is pretty fluffy (Berserk this aint...) But it's still a fun read with some really slick art. If you're looking for a light RPG-esque comic fix then give Ragnarok a spin.

THIS IS NOT THOR
1000 years ago, the God Balder was killed fighting against the goddess Freya. Now he has been resurrected as the mortal named Chaos, living in the city of Fayon. He is suffering from amnesia and is therefore ignorant of his past and of the forces that are hunting him. He is spending his time being the mentor of the princess of the city, a reckless but potentially powerful cleric named Iris Irine. Freya is seeking the lands with her valkyries in order to destroy him. The valkyrie in charge of the hunt is Sara Irine, who just happens to have a personal grievance against Fayon. Chaos' only hope is if Fenris Fenrir, the reincarnated wolf god can find him before Freya and jog his memory. Chaos and Iris are also befriended by a Lara Croft treasure hunter type named Lidia who is really just a common thief who tags along with them looking for opportunities to steal any magic item she can. There is also the mysterious Skurai, an cursed outlaw whose living sword promises to free him from his bondage if he kills a certain someone in Fayon.

This is a great manga. All of the characters are well drawn and the story smacks of an epic. It's a great setup for volume 2 in which this panorama of characters are going to come into conflict once they all reach the city.

Norse myth manga rocks!
Ragnarok is one of the greatest mangas I ever have read! In Norse mythology, Ragnarok is the end of the world. This series is a great insight on Norse mythology. In it, Fenris (like Fenrir, an offspring of Loki in wolf form, that helped cause Ragnarok) is trying to find Baldur's sword. You also meet Chaos and Iris. Chaos is teaching Iris to be more powerful. Eventually (but not in vol. 1), Iris and Chaos meet Fenris, and try to prevent Ragnarok. ... Read more

Book Description

Every year, trolls knock down Kyri's door and gobble up her Christmas feast. But this year, the trolls are in for a surprise: a boy and his pet ice bear on their way to Oslo have come in from the cold. And once the ice bear is finished with the trolls, you can bet they won't come knocking next Christmas Eve!

Once again, Jan Brett creates an original Christmas story full of warmth and magic. Featuring beautiful borders, intricate illustrations, and a stunning display of the Northern Lights, Who's That Knocking on Christmas Eve? will rightfully take its place among Jan's Christmas favorites with the whole family. ... Read more

Reviews (9)

An Arctic Bloom
What a marvel of a book! Jan Brett has an incredibly detailed and colorful style a la Michael Hague. In this book, each illustration is presented a triptych: the middle panel represents the text, and the side panels present what is happening meanwhile with the other characters. Very neat trick.

I like that there is not TOO much text on each page, and there is a lovely repetitive cadence to the storytelling.

Although this is a good book to use in initiating learning about Scandinavia, it evokes the Arctic in general. As someone who lived in Alaska for many years and had the good fortune to see the Northern Lights and breathe the crisp frigid air until my nose hairs froze, I endorse Brett's artistic expression of the Far North completely.

This is a good family read for mixed-age children if the older ones liked "The Golden Compass" or "Julie of the Wolves". Children who like this book may also enjoy the gigantic books "Gnomes" full of Scandinavian lore.

Superbly illustrated
Another very good book by Jan Brett. The illustrations are captivating. Trolls are again part of the storyline and the two main characters triumph over them in the end. Children enjoy the plot and how the trolls are cleverly outwitted.

My first Jan Brett's book
I love this book. I was so thrilled when I bought it for my children's first Christmas. It is now part of our Christmas tradition ~~ reading this book and snacking on cookies. When I look for good books to buy and to incorporate in our holiday reading, I look for excellent illustrations with a fun story to tell. I also don't look for drawn-out stories or depressing stories. This book fits all of the criteria I had set out.

My boys love polar bears. This one is focused on a traveling boy with his polar bear who helps a young girl keeps the trolls away from her house and eating up all of her Christmas eve dinner. It's funny and hilarious and sweet ~~ all at the same time. It's easy to read and fun to read out loud as well. It's a great addition to our personal library!

2-4-04

Amazing illustrations, weak story.
The illustrations in this book are beautiful and amazing. Unfortunately, this book isn't merely a picture book. It is also a story book, and the story doesn't have a lot to it. Essentially, a boy with a polar bear comes to a girl's house in the snow, and his bear scares away the trolls that steal Christmas supper. No part of the story is very well developed, and it really is kind of boring. At least I think it is, as do the kids in my life. However, the illustrations are magical. So, what to do? Check it out at the library. Not worth a purchase.

Who's That Knocking On Christmas Eve?
I read who's That Knocking On Christmas Eve? I thought it was a fun book to read because it would be like you where in the book yourself. I think you would like it Kids age 9 to 11. I highly recommend this book. I hope you like this book ... Read more

Amazon.com

Slash, chop, stab, kill with swords and axes--and yell for joy! In this rousing, historically authentic and appropriately gory novel about the Vikings, Michael Cadnum continues his exploration of cultures of violence (his other books include Redhanded, a contemporary novella about the brutal world of amateur boxing, and The Book of the Lion, set during the crusades). Cadnum, one of our finest young adult writers, vividly recreates not only the outer trappings of Viking society, but the psychological mindset of a people whose values, myths, songs, and sagas centered on murderous seafaring raids.

Seventeen-year-old Lidsmod, however, is not so sure about this business of spectacular killing, although he does his best not to show it. He is on his first sea raid, aboard the new ship Raven, on the way with the other men of the village of Spjothof to plunder the English coast. Rumors have led them to a "gold fortress" or abbey, where 13-year-old Wiglaf is learning the healing arts under the protection of the good abbot Aethelwulf. Tension builds through the alternating perspectives of the two boys, as the attackers draw near and the victims huddle in dread, only to be cut down and chopped like meat by the wild Torsten and the other Vikings. Wiglaf is taken captive, and his compassionate healing of the Vikings' wounds plants a seed of understanding in Lidsmod's mind that leads to another compassionate but costly deed. Young teens, especially boys, will relish this thrilling and exquisitely crafted story. (Ages 10 to 14) --Patty Campbell ... Read more

Reviews (3)

Historically inacurate, innapropriate for young readers
This book purports to be an accurate description of viking raiders in, attempting to show their thoughts and feelings, and give us insight into their culture. Unfortunately the author has not done his research. He merely reinforced old stereotypes and borrowed heavily from common misconceptions of vikings in order to write a book that misrepresents the norse tradition. For example, he graphically describes the making of a "bloody eagle", a horrible mutilation of a man. Todays scholars have now proved "bloody eagles" to be a complete fiction invented by a couple of Christian writers (who must have had sick sadistic imaginations).
Rape is also a common topic of the book, and this too is an old innacurate stereotype. What viking has time to rape a woman when hes fighting for his life? In addition, vikings abucted people to hold them ransom, so is it likely he would rape a ransom victim, thereby making his prisoner worthless to her family? No. Furthermore, when the vikings kept prisoners as slaves, they did not see them as expendable, and did not rape them with impunity as many believe. Viking tels even tell of Free men, Norsemen, wooing and courting slave women in their villages.
Women even went on raids with the men, were sometimes leaders in the raids, and participated in the all aspects of Norse life.
So near as we can tell, the fortunate Norse simply were allowed by their culture to live such uninhibited lives that they didn't need to be sadistic, and did not tie together sex and violence. The men did not hate and fear women, and so had no need to either rape them, or keep them in weaponless subjection.
Despite his historically innacuracy, the book simply is not appropriate for young readers, boys or girls. It is given from the perspective of the men in the story, and makes no distinction between what is approriate behavior and what is not. It speaks of young boys getting drunk on a regular basis, as just a part of life. It makes mention of sex and young men "mounting" girls, women, etc., and raping other villagewomen. It is violent and perverse, and gives no context for the not yet discerning young reader to be able to sort through the behaviors of these people, and make a distinction between what is right and wrong.
In short, THIS BOOK [STINKS]!

A Great Read!
What a great read for anyone of any age! Author Cadnum works magic with his words in this realistic coming of age story. Brought together by a Norse raid on England in 794 AD, two sympathetic boys learn grim adult truths about "heroic" warriors. This impressive novel offers accurate historical detail, sensitive pyschological insight and compassionate consideration of good people trapped by traditional expectations. Cadnum enriches our perceptions of both the Viking and the Anglo-Saxon worlds by his range of characters. We learn with 17 year old Lidsmod via the voices of his fellow sailors -- sensible leader Gunnar, veteran steersman Njord, comic Opir the Boaster and saga-singer Eirik. Even extremely violent men like Gorm or the Berserker Torsten are shown acting from different motives. Similarly, the author balances the impressions of the 13 year old English captive Wiglaf with the mature views of Christian abbot Aethelwulf and the local political lord Redwald. This work is a delightful combination of echoes of ancient myths and foreshadowing of cultural change for both the Norse and the English.

"historical"???
This book is a very interesting tale about the vikinggs and definetly a good read. the editorial review says "historical" reffering to the book as educational about history and thetime of the vikings. It is not at all historical but still a good read. ... Read more

Book Description

Welcome to Fayon, a city with a magical past and no future. In her pursuit of the Wolf Goddess Fenris, the Valkyrie Sara Irine has returned to the city of her birth, the city that sacrificed her and her mother in favor of a new princess, Iris.Sara hasn’t seen her father since she was a baby, so she’s looking forward to meeting him.But this reunion will be on her terms – to the death! ... Read more

Reviews (4)

Awful plot, but some awesome action
The thing you have to understand about this series is that it's no so much about the plot as it is about the action. This Manhwa has some of the most intense battles I've ever seen in comic form.
Ignore the fact that it's supposed to be based off Norse mythology though, because it's not very good in that respect. I'm really into Norse mythology and I was disappointed how none of the characters that they use are actually the way they are in Norse Mythology.
The world is in a fantasy setting, and honestly the plot is no different from what you would see in your typical RPG. (Which I have played many of.)

The action is what this Manhwa's about. Though in terms of action it doesn't get really good until Book 3 when Loki appears. (my favorite character.) Before that I was wondering why I was even reading the series.
And then once it gets to Book 4 it barely lets up on the action until the end of Book 7. In Book 8 it slowed down a little and I once again began to wonder why I was reading it, but by volume 9 the action picked up again and I've read through 10 now and it still shows no sign of letting up.

Even though the plot isn't that great there are still some characters I couldn't help but like (Which happens to me a lot in RPG's.) Such as Lydia, a thief who calls herself a treasure Hunter.
Or the Sorceress Fenris Fenrir.(I really like her though it's hard to say why.)
And lastly the Assassin Loki who is just a TOTAL badass.

But then there are a few caracters that just totally annoy the heck out of me. They are meant be funny but they're are just annoying. The prime example of that is Iris Irine. She is always acting like a little kid (Especially around Chaos.) except when she's fighting, then she's really cool. And I know it's meant to be funny but all it does is annoy the heck out me.
Though in Book 8 some characters appeared that I think may be even more annoying than her. And I very much dread to seeing them again.

If your looking for some serious action, then you should check this one out, but if you're expecting a deep plot then stay away from it.

"THE BEST"
ON my opinion this is by far the best of all the Ragnarok series. Of course this is the first one that I ever bought but now I almost have them all and this one is still my favorite. The art work is unmatchable and the story is really heart touching.

The whole plot was just amazing. And I just love how they designed their outfits."THE BOMB" Well anywayz moving on.
When I read the part of Sara Irine story I was really confused at first on what was going on. Then I got to the end where i really understood it and the meaning just made me want to break down in tears. Or probably knock some brains into her father. I mean I don't want to spoil anything but at first they seem so happy together. How could he just slaughter his wife and child like that. Things like this really does get to you.
Plus what I don't get in the first place is why they had to sacrifice them to begin with. (Sara and her mother were so pretty and her father looked like he really loved them)I mean couldn't he just have to daughters and where does Iris come in on all this...

All in all I would highly recommend this book to all readers out there and especially to all you anime fans. ENJOY :)...

"This is a great series and it has a promising future"
- This is one of the better grphic novels that I have ever read I really hope more people could get a chance to read it, the Ragnarok series has definetly been hiding in the shadows lateley but this is a book that deservs more attention.
All of the characters look very realistic on a manga scale. I myself have read many graphic novels in my lifetime and this is in the range of the top five graphic novels.
The storyline is based on a girl named Iris Irine she is the dughter of a powerful man by the name of Lord Irine. Lord Irine's eldest daughter was to be sacrificed 12 years ago but things didnt go as planned. Iris escaped and was adopted to an army. Now in this book Lord Irine's daughter is back "and will feel her vengeance".

This is all I will tell you for right now but you will have to purchase this book to find out the rest.

Ragnarok #2 kicks butt!
The second manwa in the series is just as good if not better than the first. The art style is amazing. Alright enough about how great the manwa is, let me tell you what to expect. Don't worry I'm not going to spoil anything. Well if I do please don't be mad. So the plot thickens in the second volume. You are introduced to shocking new secrets about a couple of the characters. This is also were the real fighting starts. And don't worry if you have a faint stomach the fighting scenes don't get very gory. In Ragnarok 2 you'll also be introduced to Loki and his group of assasins. They are mysterious and not much is revealed about them. They are sure to play some important part in future. So I really can't think of much else to write because I really don't want to ruin anything for anyone. Hope this was helpful. I really recommend this to anyone who enjoys manga or anime. ... Read more

Book Description

The Vikings told many stories of their gods: mighty Odin; Thor the god of thunder; gentle Freya; and Loki the mischief-maker and the tricks he played. In the stories, the gods are forced to always strive against the hated giants, who symbolize the pitiless northern snows and the grim mountains. These exciting and dramatic tales open with the beginning of all things, and follow the story through to the gods' final battle against the forces of winter. ... Read more

Reviews (5)

A favorite
I picked up this book and the Usborne Greek Myths and Legends when I was about 8 or 9. I had gotten interested in Greek Mythology and wanted a book, and this one was right beside the Greek one. To this day, this book is one of my favorites.

This was the book that got me interested in Norse legends and mythology. For those of you who don't know about it, I think it is for more interesting than the Greek or Roman myths that are all that most people know.

This book is chock-full of some of the most interesting tales I've ever read. Even as an adult, I go back to it every so often to re-read some of the stories. It presents them in a way that even a kid can understand and enjoy. The art is also one of my favorite parts. The subjects definitely do not appear Norse (their only flaw), but the lavish scenes and rich colors more than make up for this. Whenever I think of a scene from Norse mythology, the Rodney Matthews's illustrations are the images that come to mind.

This book will always be my standard for Norse mythology, and it will always have a place on my shelf.

Terrible Art
The art is terrible. All the characters are ugly; one wonders are these the gods? Odin and Frigg are pure Asian. Odin looks like some ancient Korean bad man, and Frigg looks like a geisha girl. If the illustrations mean anything to you, pass up this book.

Excellent!!!
This is the book that drew me to Norse Mythology in the first place. The illustrations are absolutely beautiful, and the stories are all very good too. Heck, I would recommend this book on its illustrations (by Rodney Matthews, by the way) alone, but I don't have to. YOU NEED THIS BOOK!

An interesting introduction to the Norse myths and legends
While the illustrations owe much to fantasy role-playing games rather than reflecting actual Viking art, the information packed into this litle book is superb, and serves as an excellent introduction to the Norse myths and legends.

A review of THE greatest Norse mythology book anywhere!
The wonderful book, Usborne illustrated guide to Norse Myths and legends is a must buy for anyone who likes reading adventuresome tales. This book is filled with good facts on norse myths and legends. The illustrations are one of a kind and simply breath taking. This fact filled book also includes a who's who that has painstaking details. This book is one of a kind and is a MUST buy. ... Read more