A “thrilling” (Wall Street Journal) history of the Vikings by a pre-eminent scholar The Viking Age saw an unprecedented expansion of the Scandinavian peoples into the world. As traders and raiders, explorers and colonists, they ranged from eastern North America to the Asian steppe. But for centuries, the Vikings have been seen through the eyes of others, distorted to suit the tastes of medieval writers, Victorian imperialists, Nazis, and more.Based on the latest archaeological and textual evidence, Children of Ash and Elm tells the story of the Vikings on their own terms: their politics, their cosmology and religion, their material world. Known today for a stereotype of maritime violence, the Vikings exported new ideas, technologies, and beliefs to the lands and peoples they encountered. From Eirík Bloodaxe, who fought his way to a kingdom, to Gudríd Thorbjarnardóttir, the most traveled woman in the world, Children of Ash and Elm is a remarkable history of the Vikings and their time. Read more

A Kirkus Reviews Best Nonfiction Book of 2024 A Kirkus Reviews Editor's Pick A “brilliantly written, brilliantly conceived” (Tom Holland) history of the Viking Age, from mighty leaders to rebellious teenagers, told through their runes and ruins, games and combs, trash and treasure.In imagining a Viking, a certain image springs to mind: a barbaric warrior, leaping ashore from a longboat, and ready to terrorize the hapless local population of a northern European town. Yet while such characters define our imagination of the Viking Age today, they were in the minority.Instead, in the time-stopping soils, water, and ice of the North, Eleanor Barraclough excavates a preserved lost world, one that reimagines a misunderstood society. By examining artifacts of the past―remnants of wooden gaming boards, elegant antler combs, doodles by imaginative children and bored teenagers, and runes that reveal hidden loves, furious curses, and drunken spouses summoned home from the pub―Barraclough illuminates life in the medieval Nordic world as not just a world of rampaging warriors, but as full of globally networked people with recognizable concerns.This is the history of all the people―children, enslaved people, seers, artisans, travelers, writers―who inhabited the medieval Nordic world. Encompassing not just Norway, Denmark, and Sweden, but also Iceland, Greenland, the British Isles, Continental Europe, and Russia, this is a history of a Viking Age filled with real people of different ages, genders, and ethnicities, as told through the traces that they left behind.“Embers of the hands” is a poetic kenning from the Viking Age that referred to gold. But no less precious are the embers that Barraclough blows back to life in this book―those of ordinary lives long past. 75 illus Read more

The epic story of the brutal battle for Norway in 1940.The perfect book for fans of Ian Toll, Max Hastings, and Alex Kershaw.In this brief, untidy campaign that lasted just six weeks, all branches of the Allied military service united against the lightning-fast invasion that the Nazis had surprised them with. On an almost hourly basis, air battles, amphibious landings by troops, and monumental naval engagements took place.Donald Macintyre, the renowned military historian and escort commander, takes the reader to the heart of the battle, providing not just an overview but also provides fascinating details of the attack that left six German destroyers damaged within Narvik’s harbour, the sacrifice made by the damaged HMS Glowworm as it rammed the heavy-cruiser Admiral Hipper, the heroism displayed by one naval officer who worked tirelessly to evacuate the shore bases near Trondheim, and the final tragic loss of the carrier HMS Glorious.The Norwegian campaign that took place in the spring of 1940 is often overshadowed by later successful Allied operations in the European theatre: North Africa, Sicily, Italy, and France. Yet, although German forces surprised and ultimately held off the Allied counterattack, Captain Macintyre demonstrates why this is such an important campaign and how the Allies had to learn difficult lessons here before they were able to march on to victory.Narvik should be essential reading for anyone interested in the oft-overlooked campaign that took place during what was known as the ‘Phoney War’, proved a brutally eye-opening to the Allies, but taught them much about how to fight in the battles to come.‘Really first rate.’ Kirkus Reviews‘A book to set the blood tingling’ Evening News‘fascinating reading’ U.S. Naval Institute Read more

Want to travel back in time to the spellbinding Old Norse world—and find out how you can apply its ancient wisdom and magic to modern situations and problems? Then read on: This is the book for you!Runes—the cryptic letters of an Old Norse alphabet—are more than just a collection of dusty symbols from a bygone era.They’re powerful forces that have long been associated with magic and divination.Since ancient times, people have used them for guidance, and they’re still being used today.In fact, more and more people are discovering the mysterious power of runes and are incorporating them into their daily spiritual practices.Now YOU can too! In the pages of this book, you’ll learn about runes, the folklore surrounding them, and how you can unleash their power in your own life.With a little bit of know-how, you’ll soon be using runes to guide you through life’s difficulties and questions and point you toward the answers you’re seeking.Inside The Old Norse Spell Book, you’ll discover:The history and significance of Old Norse runesThe oldest runic alphabet, the Elder FutharkThe folklore and ancient stories surrounding runesHow runes are used for divination and magicHow runic magic is practiced in the modern worldAnd much, much more!Remember, runes don’t provide you with definitive answers or tell you exactly what’s going to happen.Instead, they provide valuable insight into your unique situation and the potential outcomes that may occur.If you don’t like the possible outcome a rune is hinting at, you can change direction and alter it: You’re in control.So, buy this book today and start sprinkling a little runic magic in your life! You’ll be glad you did. Read more

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The Christian Science Monitor's #1 Best Book of the YearA witty, informative, and popular travelogue about the Scandinavian countries and how they may not be as happy or as perfect as we assume, “The Almost Nearly Perfect People offers up the ideal mixture of intriguing and revealing facts” (Laura Miller, Salon).Journalist Michael Booth has lived among the Scandinavians for more than ten years, and he has grown increasingly frustrated with the rose-tinted view of this part of the world offered up by the Western media. In this timely book he leaves his adopted home of Denmark and embarks on a journey through all five of the Nordic countries to discover who these curious tribes are, the secrets of their success, and, most intriguing of all, what they think of one another.Why are the Danes so happy, despite having the highest taxes? Do the Finns really have the best education system? Are the Icelanders as feral as they sometimes appear? How are the Norwegians spending their fantastic oil wealth? And why do all of them hate the Swedes? In The Almost Nearly Perfect People Michael Booth explains who the Scandinavians are, how they differ and why, and what their quirks and foibles are, and he explores why these societies have become so successful and models for the world. Along the way a more nuanced, often darker picture emerges of a region plagued by taboos, characterized by suffocating parochialism, and populated by extremists of various shades. They may very well be almost nearly perfect, but it isn’t easy being Scandinavian. Read more

“An engaging, layered look into a culture complex enough both to produce stylish rain gear and to embrace the foul weather that necessitates it.” —The New York Times Book ReviewWe fill our homes with Nordic furniture; we envy their humane social welfare system and healthy outdoor lifestyle; we devour their crime fiction. Even their strangely attractive melancholia seems to express a stoic, commonsensical acceptance of life’s vicissitudes. But how valid is this outsider’s view of Scandinavia, and how accurate is our picture of life in Scandinavia today? Scandinavians follows a chronological progression across the Northern centuries: the Vendel era of Swedish prehistory; the age of the Vikings; the Christian conversions of Denmark, Norway, Sweden and Iceland; the unified Scandinavian state of the late Middle Ages; the sea-change of the Reformation; the kingdom of Denmark-Norway; King Gustav Adolphus and the age of Sweden’s greatness; the cultural golden age of Ibsen, Strindberg, and Munch; the impact of the Second World War; Scandinavia’s postwar social democratic nirvana; and the terror attack of Anders Behring Breivik. Scandinavians is also a personal investigation, with award-winning author Robert Ferguson as the ideal companion as he explores not only the region’s society, politics, culture, and temperament, but also wide-ranging topics such as the power and mystique of Scandinavian women, from the Valkyries to the Vikings; from Nora and Hedda to Garbo and Bergman. “A delightful history in which the author truly captures ‘the soul of the North.’ ”—Kirkus Reviews Read more

Five manuscripts in one book:History of Sweden: A Captivating Guide to Swedish History, Starting from Ancient Times through the Viking Age and Swedish Empire to the PresentHistory of Norway: A Captivating Guide to Norwegian HistoryHistory of Denmark: A Captivating Guide to Danish HistoryHistory of Iceland: A Captivating Guide to the History of the Land of Fire and Ice, from the Viking Age to the PresentHistory of Finland: A Captivating Guide to Finnish HistoryIn contrast to their Danish and Norwegian cousins, Swedish Vikings traveled east rather than west in search of riches, land, and power. The extensive river systems of Russia provided economic and military “super-highways” to the adventurers from the north, who journeyed down them all the way to the Black Sea and Constantinople in search of fame and riches.In the first part of this book, you will discover:The Swedes’ fierce struggle to gain independenceThe “Father of Sweden,” King Gustav Vasa and his dynasty that spawned some of the greatest military minds in EuropeThe hero Raoul Wallenberg and his role in WWIINorway is a unique country located on the fringes of Europe. Its climate and geographical position determined the lifestyle of the people inhabiting it. It was never an easy life. The constant scarcity of arable land, the vast distances they had to traverse due to the myriad of fjords and mountains, and the long and harsh winters in the inland areas made Norwegians constantly struggle for a better life.In the second part of this book, you will discover:Where did the first Norwegians come from?How did the early Bronze Age societies live in the harsh environment of Scandinavia?When was oil was discovered in Norway, and what does it mean to its citizens today?For centuries, Denmark “punched above its weight” and was a major player on the European stage. Many know about the Danish Vikings and their voyages of conquest and discovery, but Denmark is more than just those medieval raiders and traders, even though interest in their adventures is at an all-time high today.In the third part of this book, you will discover:Does Denmark really appear in the top three of the world’s “happiest” countries?Were the Danish Vikings only interested in conquest? And what were their relations like with Europe before the Viking Age?What was life like for Danish Jews during WWII?Iceland, the land of fire and ice, has a storied history. After the Norse discovered Iceland, they began to settle it, allying the island nation with Norway. However, as power shifted in Scandinavia, Iceland would come to be governed by Denmark for several centuries.In the fourth part of this book, you will find:The Old Covenant with Norway and what that meant for IcelandThe conversion from paganism to ChristianityIceland’s struggle for independenceFinnish culture is centuries old, yet Finland itself has only been an independent nation for just over one hundred years. This book pulls back the curtain so you can get a better look at Finland’s history. Its history is exciting, even without the Vikings, and its proximity to Russia is something that is still talked about in the news today.In the fifth part of this book, you will find:The ancient Finnish did not worship the famous Norse gods like Thor and Odin.The history of Finland and Sweden are intertwined; Finland was part of Sweden for five hundred years!Finland was also part of the Russian Empire from 1809 to 1917.And much, much more!So, what are you waiting for? Click the “add to cart” button to begin learning about History of Scandinavia! Read more

“Skeie’s account of ruthless conflict, political intrigue, and diplomatic machinations reads like a real-life Game of Thrones—without the dragons. Medieval history buffs will be riveted.” --Publishers WeeklyThrilling history provides a new perspective on the Viking-Anglo Saxon conflicts and brings the bloody period vividly to life, perfect for fans of Dan JonesThe first major book on Vikings by a Scandinavian author to be published in English, The Wolf Age reframes the struggle for a North Sea empire and puts readers in the mindset of Vikings, providing new insight into their goals, values, and what they chose to live and die for.Tore Skeie ("Norway's Most Important Young Historian") takes readers on a thrilling journey through the bloody shared history of England and Scandinavia, and on across early medieval Europe, from the wild Norwegian fjords to the wealthy cities of Muslim Andalusia.Warfare, plotting, backstabbing and bribery abound as Skeie skillfully weaves sagas and skaldic poetry with breathless dramatization as he entertainingly brings the world of the Vikings and Anglo-Saxons to vivid life.In the eleventh century, the rulers of the lands surrounding the North Sea are all hungry for power. To get power they need soldiers, to get soldiers they need silver, and to get silver there is no better way than war and plunder.This vicious cycle draws all the lands of the north into a brutal struggle for supremacy and survival that will shatter kingdoms and forge an empire… Read more

“Tremendous . . . zeroes in on the critical first days of Weserübung and offers a minutely detailed account of the unfolding action.”—World War II   This book documents the German invasion of Norway, focusing on the events at sea. More than most other campaigns of WWII, Operation Weserübung has been shrouded in mystery, legend and flawed knowledge. Strategic, political and legal issues were at best unclear, while military issues were dominated by risk; the German success was the result of improvisation and the application of available forces far beyond the comprehension of British and Norwegian military and civilian authorities.   Weserübung was the first combined operation ever where air force, army and navy operated closely together. Troops were transported directly into battle simultaneously by warship and aircraft, and success required cooperation between normally fiercely competing services. It was also the first time that paratroopers were used. The following days were to witness the first dive bomber attack to sink a major warship and the first carrier task-force operations.   The narrative is based on primary sources from British, German and Norwegian archives, and it gives a balanced account of the reasons behind the invasion. With its unrivalled collection of photographs, many of which have never before appeared in print, this is a major new WWII history and a definitive account of Germany’s first and last major seaborne invasion.   “This is the author’s first book but he has a fine natural talent for maritime history. This is a magnificent work.”—Work Boat World   “A very impressive piece of work that comes highly recommended.”—HistoryOfWar.org Read more

If you’re intrigued by centuries-old mythology and want to tap into your own powerful magic, then The Old Norse Spell Book is for you.Norse folklore dates all the way back to 5th century AD, and its tradition lives on through magic.Seidr, the ancient Norse word for magic, was practiced by völva, women in the Viking age with the psychic ability to foretell and shape future events.The truth about magic is that it does not resemble modern film and television portrayals.Magic is simply the ability to read and manipulate energy, and anyone can do it—including you.With the right guidance and tools, it’s possible to tap into your divine gifts.You can ignite the magic inside of you and discover the mystique of Old Norse magic to connect deeper with yourself, the Earth, and the divine powers of other realms using the sacred teachings inside The Old Norse Spell Book.The psychic gifts of divination and energy reading beg to be discovered.All you have to do is learn how to feel your own energy with the ancient tradition of Norse magic, using runes, incantations, and rituals to guide your practice.Inside The Old Norse Spell Book, you will discover:How to use runes, spells, divine rituals, and practices to tune into yourself and light the magic within you to discover the powers of energy and how to use itOld Norse mythology and how it spiritually connects to the practice of magic, or SeidrThe ancient history of the folklore and its creation of a centuries-old tradition that is practiced by thousands todayHow to use Old Norse mystical teachings to develop your psychic abilities and practice your own magic…plus the tips and tricks to discover how to use your divine magic to connect with your mind, body, and the world around you.Norse magic evolves from its ancient applications into modern day rituals that uphold the beauty of the tradition.The power of Norse magic exists within the people who practice it.You can find this power when you understand the divine energy that is already inside you.Unearth your spiritual essence and know your power with the guidance in The Old Norse Spell Book! Read more

From the internationally acclaimed, best-selling author of Hunting Eichmann and The Perfect Mile, an epic adventure and spy story about the greatest act of sabotage in all of World War II.   It’s 1942 and the Nazis are racing to be the first to build a weapon unlike any known before. They have the physicists, they have the uranium, and now all their plans depend on amassing a single ingredient: heavy water, which is produced in Norway’s Vemork, the lone plant in all the world that makes this rare substance. Under threat of death, Vemork’s engineers push production into overdrive.   For the Allies, the plant must be destroyed. But how would they reach the castle fortress set on a precipitous gorge in one of the coldest, most inhospitable places on Earth?   Based on a trove of top secret documents and never-before-seen diaries and letters of the saboteurs, The Winter Fortress is an arresting chronicle of a brilliant scientist, a band of spies on skies, perilous survival in the wild, sacrifice for one’s country, Gestapo manhunts, soul-crushing setbacks, and a last-minute operation that would end any chance Hitler could obtain the atomic bomb—and alter the course of the war.  Read more

“The selection of remembered events from a cross section of Germans provides a very human account of instances in war.” —FiretrenchThe first in a series of books, I Somehow Survived is an extraordinary collection of true stories giving testimony to those who survived World War II. Based on interviews with numerous veterans from across the spectrum of wartime experience, the book documents and reflects upon one of the most gruesome times in history.From anti-partisan warfare in the French mountains and atrocities in East Prussia to the experience of a Norwegian concentration camp, the accounts include rarely heard stories from a range of people caught up in the war. With the distance of time, these survivors have been able to offer new perspectives on their experiences and expose truths they would not have dared admit several decades ago.German Army officers reveal their role in the Vercors and Kiev massacres. A Luftwaffe officer-applicant who never flew describes service on the ground. And a Norwegian woman writes of marrying a German Kriegsmarine while her mother was in a Norwegian concentration camp for political activity and her father was in hiding from the Gestapo. “I have no objection to your marrying him,” her father told her, “I just want them to give us our country back.”“It is always refreshing to hear the German side of the story. The recollections seem pretty open and candid, and the supporting photos help reassure one . . . fascinating stuff.” —A Question of Scale Read more

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Discover The Rich History, Mythology, Spirituality, and Practices of Norse PaganismLet us take you back in time. When the Norse people lived in an enchanted and sacred world. A time famously shrouded in mystery, magic and witchcraft.Norse Paganism has survived the centuries, the rise and fall of empires, and the introduction of new religions. It remains one of the most fascinating and powerful spiritual traditions in human history.More than just a religion, it is also a way of life to help one lead a fulfilling existence…and every person, no matter their race, religion, or culture is welcome.At History Brought Alive, we provide you with a single comprehensive and credible source detailing Norse Paganism, its rich history, sacred practices, mythological foundations, gods, goddesses, heroes, and what Norse spirituality looks like in today’s modern world.This book draws from a wide variety of scholarly articles, archaeological findings, and ancient writings, including faithful translations of the few existing original texts of the Norse people, such as the Poetic Edda and Codex Regius.Inside this book you will discover:The Core Beliefs, Rituals, and Values of Norse Paganism – including Ancestor Worship, Animal Spirit Guides, Runes, Fate, Destiny, Seiðr, Spædom, Norse Magic, and more.A Detailed Look at the Historical Development of the Norse Pagan Community – from the Viking Age, through the spread of Christianity, to modern revival movements.The Various Pathways of Norse Paganism – including Ásatrú, Vanatrú, Heathenry, and personal spiritual practices tied to ancient traditions.The Realms of the Norse Gods, Goddesses, Heroes, and Mythical Creatures – including Odin, Freyja, Thor, Loki, and the enigmatic beings that populate the Nine Worlds.Common Misconceptions about Norse Paganism – separating modern stereotypes from historical truth.Norse Paganism in the Modern World – how the old traditions live on today through rituals, festivals, spirituality, runic divination, astrology, and contemporary Norse-inspired communities.Norse Magic and Practices – Explore Seiðr (shamanic magic), Spædom (prophecy and fortune-telling), the sacred role of the Völva (seeress), and the continuing relevance of ancient rites.Ancient Texts and Traditions – Unlock the secrets preserved in the Poetic Edda, Codex Regius, Hávamál, and other legendary Norse manuscripts.The Way of Fire and Ice – Discover the living spiritual traditions of the Norse, offering powerful pathways for personal development, inner strength, and spiritual guidance.And much, much more...Whether you are new to Norse Paganism or seeking to deepen your understanding, this book offers everything you need to explore the ancient paths of the North.Don’t waste another minute—everything you need to know about Norse Paganism, Norse mythology, Viking spirituality, and ancient Norse traditions is just one page away!Get comfortable, turn the page, and get ready to be transported into a world of myth, magick, mystery, and adventure: the timeless world of Norse Paganism. Read more

Ragnar - The Legendary Viking: The Stories and Adventures of an Immortal Warrior of Norse MythologyRagnar Lodbrok—a name immortalized in the sagas and myths of the Norse peoples. He was not only a fearless warrior and king but also a charismatic figure who blurred the lines between history and legend. This book takes you deep into the fascinating world of Ragnar Lodbrok and his unforgettable adventures.From his early heroic deeds and the famous dragon battles to his complex marriages and the birth of his legendary sons—this book tells the complete story of Ragnar. Experience how he outwitted his enemies with cunning and intelligence, how he relentlessly pursued glory, and how he ultimately faced the forces of England in one final, tragic act.The book offers a comprehensive narrative of Ragnar's life and legacy, illuminating his historical and mythological roots and showing how his story lives on in modern pop culture. Whether you're a longtime fan of Norse mythology or diving into the sagas for the first time, this tale will captivate and inspire you.Join Ragnar Lodbrok on his epic journey and discover the myths that shaped the North. This book is a must-read for anyone who wants to learn more about the fascinating world of the Vikings. Read more

From Finland to Newfoundland and Jelling to Jerusalem, follow in the wake of the Vikings―a transformative story of a people that begins with paganism and ends in Christendom. In AD 800, the Scandinavians were just barbarians in longships. Though they held sway in the north, their power meant little more than the ability to pillage and plunder, which they did to bolster their status at home. But as these Norse warriors left their strongholds to trade, raid, and settle across wide areas of Europe, Asia, and the North Atlantic, their violent and predatory culture left a unique imprint on medieval history. The twist that no one predicted, however, was a much slower, insidious takeover than any the Vikings would execute, and by a turn of the tide, they themselves became its target. For as they made their mark on Europe, Europe made its mark on them. By the year 1200, what remained of the Vikings’ pagan origins floated beneath the surface and the strong, strange territories of the north had become a part of Latin Christendom.Northmen is there to tell the tale, to pay homage to what was lost and celebrate what was won. Focusing on key events, including the sack of Lindisfarne in 793 and the Battle of Stamford Bridge in 1066, medieval history expert John Haywood recounts the saga of the Viking Age, from the creation of the world through to the dwindling years of halfhearted raids and elegiac storytelling in the thirteenth century. He does so with meticulous research, engaging narrative, and sensitivity for his subject, shedding light and blood along the way. Read more

“Black Book! Cyprianus’ book of arts was first found at the academy in Wittenberg in the year 1722 and was since printed and published in numerous kingdoms. In Some places it was sought and burned. Finally, it was once again located in Copenhagen castle inside of a marble casket, written on parchment.”For the first time in English, delve into the legendary Norwegian Black Books through this comprehensive guide. Discover how these mystical manuscripts fit into the history of grimoires and magic by exploring their contents, origins, and evolution.Unearth the folklore and legends surrounding the Black Book Priests, who were believed to be master magicians with the power to heal, control demons, and command the devil himself. Read historical accounts about the individuals who used these black books and the magical powers they supposedly possessed.Examine, for the first time in English, 63 unique spells, magical recipes, and instructions from both early and later Black Books. These range from healing spells and love charms to methods for identifying trolls and witches, and rituals to summon, bind, or banish the devil and his demons. Read more

Culture Smart! Norway steers you through the social and professional encounters of your visit to this new culture. By deepening your understanding it will enable you to establish real friendships and business partnerships. Tips on meeting and communicating make socializing a pleasant experience, and chapters on the customs and traditions that form the bedrock of family life give a glimpse inside a Norwegian home. The guide also explains how the Norwegian commercial world operates – vital information for anyone doing business inside one of the world’s wealthiest nations.Norwegians enjoy arguably the best quality of life in the world, but this was not always so. The need to survive in a difficult, isolated terrain and an often harsh climate forged a people who are hardworking and self-sufficient. The long coastline inspired a love of the sea and exploration, while a deep respect for nature is ingrained in their character. Since Viking times their parliaments have practiced basic democratic principles and a spirit of egalitarianism. Union with neighboring nations fostered a spirit of consensus, and a long struggle for independence produced an idealistic nationalism. Today’s Norwegians have a strong commitment to equality and fairness and are proud of the society they have created.This was not always so. The need to survive in a difficult, isolated terrain and an often harsh climate forged a people who are hardworking and self-sufficient. The long coastline inspired a love of the sea and exploration, while a deep respect for nature is ingrained in their character. Since Viking times their parliaments have displayed basic democratic principles and a spirit of egalitarianism. Union with neighboring nations fostered a spirit of consensus, and a long struggle for independence brought about an idealistic nationalism. Today s Norwegians have a strong commitment to equality and fairness and are proud of the society they have created.On first meeting, the Norwegians are most often serious, polite, and quietly reserved, which can make newcomers feel as if they have come up against a stone wall. Getting to know Norwegians can take time, but once the façade is overcome, you will meet the friendly, fun-loving, hardy, and family-oriented people on the other side. This updated edition of Culture Smart! Norway steers you through the situations that you are likely to encounter and gives you the tools to make the most of your time in this affluent yet down-to-earth country. By deepening your understanding of the culture, it will enable you to establish true friendships, while tips on communicating help make socializing. Read more

⛏️ REVISED AND EXPANDED EDITION! ⛏️⛏️ THE MOST EPIC AND EXPANSIVE NORSE MYTHOLOGY BIBLE ON AMAZON!⛏️⛏️ DOUBLE THE PAGES OF OTHER BOOKS!⛏️This sprawling thirty-chapter book includes all major tales of Norse Mythology. From Thor and mischievous Loki to the twilight of the gods known as Ragnarök. Also included is the decryption of Runes, exploring Spells, Ásatrú, European history, warfare, ancient inspirations, to even expansive pages from the ancient book known as Poetic Edda. Each chapter will include stunning paintings to kindle the ancient Viking dreams...To my fellow fans of the Vikings, this Norse Mythology book is for you!This covers everything from the hammer-welding God Thor, to more esoteric stories like Iðunn and her life-restoring apples. This vividly told book also goes into detail about the Viking history, from the brutality of Ragnar Lothbrok, explorations and complications of Eric The Red, to the Shield Maiden Lagertha and victories in battle, to Leif Erikson's fleeting glimpses of the New World... to more!The Ásatrú religion is also explored in detail. From its beginning with the founder of Sveinbjörn Beinteinsson right down different festivals in Europe on the religion.In addition, there is an expensive background on the history of Vikings. From the beginning and to the end, with the Christianization of Europe and so merging into other societies.In addition to that, at the end of the book is lengthy excerpts from the bard himself, Snorri Sturluson's book Poetic Edda for reference into a bygone age.This also includes Hávamá, The Book Of Ancient Norse Poems/Inspirational sayings from the Vikings. Finally, this book will go into detail about everything from the quintessential battle-axe, longship, to more like One of the mysterious things, the Draugar, ancient undead Vikings lurking around tombs.Throughout these thirty-two chapters, you will find:Goddesses and Gods: From Odin, Idunn to Thor and Loki. This goes into vivid detail about all the main myths.When The Blood Axe Ruled: Within these pages, there is a detailed biography of many of the more memorable Vikings etched in Scandinavian history.Weapons, Food, and Ships: From battle axes to blood eagles to clinker technique on their dragon ships.Decrypt Runes: This breaks down the beginning of the runic alphabet of Elder Futhark to Young Futhark.Explore Spells: In-depth info about the basics of old Norse Magic Seiðr. Though, how is forever lost to the ages.Hávamá: A collection of ancient Norse Poems and inspirational sayings from the Vikings Bards.Asatru/Paganism: From the very beginning in the 1970s including the various holidays and what exactly is a blot.Poetic Edda: This includes select highlights from the Snorri Sturluson ancient writing. Over 100 pages from the ancient book.This epic multi-century book is, bar none, the most detailed and epic Norse Mythology Bible on Amazon! Read more