The Absolute Sandman: Volume Three

Written by Neil Gaiman / Cover by Dave McKean
Vertigo

An involving and rewarding effort from the master of surrealist fantasy graphic novels.

It is difficult to find fault with such an iconic and perfectly presented book, other than to say that Volume Three is more a bridging-middle to the series than the snap-crackle-pop introductory story arcs of the two preceding books.

Naturally, it’s wise to begin your Gaiman journey with Volume One, as these are not the kind of books you just pick up and start reading from any point; the stories are deep, broad and complex—written for adults who prefer to delve into the depths instead of the shallows, with themes of morality, mythology, life after death, faith and love.

Volume Three’s major story arc is ‘Brief Lives’ (it also features the single-issue prequel ‘Song of Orpheus’), the plot focuses on The Sandman’s sister, Delirium, and her quest to find their missing brother, Destruction. Accompanied by Dream (who carries a hidden-agenda), the pair embark on a fruitless search that throws up more questions than answers—especially between The Sandman and his son, Orpheus.

‘World’s End’, travellers’ stories about how the duo became moored at the Inn at Worlds End, provides a welcome and interesting divergence. The book also features several single-issue stories, including the acclaimed ‘Ramadan’: the story of a boy-king of ancient Baghdad and the deal he brokers with The Sandman to grant his city immortality—featuring stunning illustrations by P. Craig Russell (The Jungle Book); and ‘A Parliament of Rooks’, a prequel that examines the childhood lives of Dream and Death.

First-time bonus features include: pin-up pages from galleries in The Sandman #50 and Sandman Special #1; the ‘Desire’ story from Vertigo: Winter’s Edge #3; The Endless Gallery #1; script and thumbnails from The Sandman #50, a section on Endless products (such as poster, statues, t-shirts and more); plus an introduction by artist, Jill Thompson.

This beautifully bound book of more than 600 pages is presented in a sturdy, illustrated hardcover slipcase.