Thor: God of Thunder (2013), Volume 3

August 1, 2014

The exciting and superbly crafted "God Butcher" story line that filled the first two books of the "Thor" series was in many ways the apotheosis of the epic, high-stakes cosmic conflict that has characterized many God of Thunder serials. Among the three diverse tales in this more humorous volume is one lesser but still enjoyable example of that genre, in which Thor leads a motley and fractious fellowship of representatives from across the Nine Realms of Norse mythology--including a dwarf, a giant, a troll, and two very different elves--against the rampaging dark elf Malekith. The other two stories present contrasting portraits of the thunder god. In one fine episode, Thor tours Midgard (Earth), visiting people from all walks of life and acting as Superman might (except for the mead drinking and skirt chasing). In the other, set in 894 CE, a younger, more headstrong Thor deals with an adolescent dragon and acts more like Conan the Barbarian (except for the heroic answering of his followers' prayers). VERDICT A bloodier, earthier take on the Norse hero than either the movies or classic older Thor comics--but well done and recommended.--S.R.

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