The Sandman Vol. 2: The Doll's House

What will continue in third trade paperback, started here.

After we saw capturing of Morpheus in first volume, it was about time to show us something else. And here Gaiman kicks in. He veawes a tale of dreams and mysteries, he tells a story of growing up and nightmares that lurk beyond. We find modern epic in these pages, filled with interesting characters, dark villany (whichi is somewhat lighter here than in the first paperback) and old fashiond heroes. We are learning of Dreams past, friendship gained and loves lost.

In this volume you'll find one of the best stories that Gaiman ever written, story that spans centuries of lifetime but loses its sense for humanity, for ups and downs of human intelligence, and essential loneliness that rest in the hearts of every sentient being out there.

Maybe somewhat rough on the edges, and even too mundane (grand epics, clashes of entities will follow later up) in its finishing touch, Doll's house still remains one of the best Sandmans ever written.

If you're new to Gaiman, you might not be used to his style but this volume is a great accompaniment to Vol I - Preludes & Nocturnes. It follows Rose, who was first introduced in Vol I through uncovering secrets to the whereabouts of her missing brother & meeting long, lost relatives. A truly great graphic novel.

There are several threads in the Doll's House. Morpheus must clean house as he realises several of his more important servants are missing. He must deal with two of them who have set about creating their own Sandman using a dead man, and his live wife and child. Another is keynote speaker at a serial killers convention.

On a lighter note, Dream and Death are amused by Hob when they find him declaiming he will not die, so Dream offers to meet him for a drink every 100 years to see if he has changed his mind, and realises that they have become friends.

I can't say enough good things about Neil Gaiman. His imagination is unparalelled. Wonderfully written and illustrated.

Neil Gaiman has an amazing imagination. I love all of his books that I have read so far. American Gods, Anansi Boys, Neverwhere, and now the Sandman series. Fabulous! The creativity and beautiful visuals never cease to amaze me.