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Best Books on Norse Mythology

Delve into the ancient sagas and divine tales with these top-ranked books on Norse mythology. These selections have earned their place by being frequently featured and praised across prominent book-related websites.

Recommendations from 18 articles, Elon Musk, Paul Krugman, Neil Gaiman and 9 others.
24 books on the list
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Norse Mythology book cover
Norse Mythology
Neil Gaiman - 2018-03-06 (first published in 2017)
Goodreads Rating
Embark on a journey through the Norse gods and their world, from their origin to their ultimate upheaval in Ragnarok. Through Neil Gaiman's deft prose, Odin, Thor, and Loki come to life with their competitive nature, susceptibility to trickery, and fiery passions. Explore the legendary nine worlds and the exploits of deities, dwarfs, and giants in this novelistic arc that stays true to the original myths. Experience the myths in a new light with Norse Mythology.
D'Aulaires' Book of Norse Myths book cover
D'Aulaires' Book of Norse Myths
Ingri D'Aulaire - 2005-07-10 (first published in 1967)
Goodreads Rating
Discover the fascinating world of Norse myths with this beautifully illustrated book. Children will be introduced to Odin, Thor, and Loki, as well as heroes, giants, and Valkyrie maidens. With captivating storytelling and stunning artwork, this book brings the fantastical world of Norse folklore to life.
The Prose Edda book cover
The Prose Edda
Norse Mythology (Penguin Classics)
Snorri Sturluson - 2006-07-28 (first published in 1220)
Goodreads Rating
Explore the ancient stories of Norse mythology and the battles of gods, giants, dwarves, and elves in The Prose Edda. Written in Iceland, this renowned piece of Scandinavian literature provides unparalleled insights into the tragic realization of the future Ragnarok battle that will destroy the world. Featuring clear prose and powerful verse, this work has inspired modern tales such as Wagner's The Ring Cycle and Tolkien's The Lord of the Rings. This new translation by Jesse Byock captures the original strength and subtlety alongside notes and appendices.
The Poetic Edda book cover
The Poetic Edda
Stories of the Norse Gods and Heroes (Hackett Classics)
Jackson Crawford - 1990-01-01 (first published in 1270)
Goodreads Rating
The Poetic Edda: A thirteenth-century Icelandic manuscript that provides historical, mythological, and literary insights into pre-Christian Scandinavians. Jackson Crawford's modern translation brings to life the gods, heroes, and unique vision of the beginning and end of the world. Accessible and authentic, this book is a must-read for those interested in Viking culture and mythology.
The Norse Myths book cover
The Norse Myths
Kevin Crossley-Holland - 2000-01-24 (first published in 1980)
Goodreads Rating
Explore the captivating mythology of the Vikings with this collection of thirty-two classic myths that bring the Norse world to life. Join gods, humans, and monstrous beasts in their epic battles, love affairs, and daring adventures. Meet Odin, Thor, Freyja, and other fascinating figures from the Norse pantheon. Witness their courage, passion, and boundless spirit in a cycle of stories filled with magnificent images from pre-Christian Europe. A must-read for anyone interested in mythology and history.
Recommended by
Neil Gaiman
The Sagas of Icelanders book cover
The Sagas of Icelanders
(Penguin Classics Deluxe Edition)
Jane Smiley - 2001-03-01 (first published in 1200)
Goodreads Rating
Discover the epic tales of the Viking age with this unique body of medieval literature known as The Sagas of Icelanders. Full of tragedy, realism, and engaging human characters, these stories explore universal themes such as love, hate, fate and freedom. Follow the Norse men and women as they settle in Iceland and venture west to Greenland and North America. Journey with them through a richly developed world and experience an astonishingly modern perspective on their lives and deeds.
The Viking Spirit book cover
The Viking Spirit
An Introduction to Norse Mythology and Religion
Daniel McCoy - 2016-06-06
Goodreads Rating
Explore the captivating realm of Norse mythology in The Viking Spirit. Written by the renowned Daniel McCoy, this book offers a clear, engaging introduction to the gods, goddesses, and epic myths of the Viking culture. With retellings of 34 captivating tales, it is the most comprehensive guide to Norse mythology available. Discover the Vikings' concept of fate, their moral code, and their views on the afterlife as you explore this fascinating religion. Perfect for anyone looking to learn more about Viking culture, The Viking Spirit is scholarly, yet entertaining and easy to understand.
Gods and Myths of Northern Europe book cover
Gods and Myths of Northern Europe
H.R. Ellis Davidson - 1990-01-01 (first published in 1964)
Goodreads Rating
Explore the ancient Nordic deities who gave us the names of our days of the week in this fascinating book. Learn about the gods of war and fertility, the sky and the sea, and the puzzling figures of Norse mythology. As the first popular treatment of the subject to appear in English for many years, this book is written by a scholar who specializes in Norse and Germanic mythology. Discover how these pagan beliefs eventually gave way to Christianity and how these beliefs related to daily life.
The Gospel of Loki book cover
The Gospel of Loki
Joanne M. Harris - 2014-02-20
Goodreads Rating
Discover the fascinating world of Norse gods and their ultimate trickster through the eyes of Loki in this first-person narrative. Follow his journey from the underworld of Chaos to his exploits on behalf of Odin, and witness the ultimate betrayal of the gods and the fall of Asgard. A must-read for fans of mythology and compelling storytelling.
The Sea of Trolls book cover
The Sea of Trolls
Nancy Farmer - 2006-06-01 (first published in 2004)
Goodreads Rating
Embark on an exciting journey with Jack, who is kidnapped by Vikings and taken to the court of Ivar the Boneless. In a bid to undo a spell cast by mistake, Jack, along with a shield maiden and a crow, heads to the kingdom of trolls on a quest filled with adventure and danger. Epic fantasy and ancient history come together in the first book of the Sea of Trolls trilogy by National Book Award winner Nancy Farmer.
The Saga of the Volsungs with The Saga of Ragnar Lothbrok by Unknown
Norse Mythology by John Lindow
Winter Solstice in the Crystal Castle by Jennifer Ivy Walker
Thor by J. Michael Straczynski Vol. 1 by J. Michael Straczynski
Nordic Runes by Paul Rhys Mountfort
Norse Gods by Johan Egerkrans
A Dictionary of Northern Mythology by Rudolph Simek
Rudiments of Runelore by Stephen Pollington
Myth and Religion of the North by E. O. G. Turville-Petre
We Are Our Deeds by Eric Wodening
American Gods by Neil Gaiman
Gods of Asgard by Erik A. Evensen
The Norse Myths by Carolyne Larrington
The Lord of the Rings by J. R. R. Tolkien