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Jun 14, 2010 Web Exclusive By Jim Scott

For the uninitiated, The Sandman tells the story of Dream (aka Morpheus, among his many names), the King of Dreams, a dead ringer for The Cure’s Robert Smith and a character that launched the varied career of writer Neil Gaiman. Gaiman’s Sandman made him a cult hero, and this new edition features a new cover and an introduction by Amanda Palmer of The Dresden Dolls (who also happens to be Gaiman’s girlfriend).

The story begins when a group of occultists, contemporaries of Aleister Crowley, summon and then trap Dream while trying to capture his sister, Death. They hold Dream prisoner for 70 years, during which time he loses much of his power and the kingdom he built crumbles. Gaiman and a host of artists depict a world where some are trapped in a dream state.

When Dream finally escapes, he has to recapture the talismans that hold his power. This part of the story is effectively told by Gaiman, as the mission gives the story shape until Dream’s character solidifies. The art varies from book to book, as it, too, struggles a bit to find a shape. But once this volume concludes, Gaiman, Dream, and the artists seem to be on firm ground. While the legend of The Sandman has perhaps outgrown the actual quality of the work found within, it’s fascinating to see Gaiman develop over the course of these pages. (www.dccomics.com/vertigo)

Author rating: 7/10