The Sandman

by Neil Gaiman, E.T.A. Hoffmann
The Sandman cover
Good Books rating 4.5
Gothic
Buy online
Waterstones
Paperback • £7.99 Hardback • £45.00
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Format/Price Check
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  • ID: 565
  • Added: 2025-09-18
  • Updated: 2026-02-03
  • ISBN: 9788728264331
  • Publisher: Lindhardt og Ringhof
  • Published: 2022-06-02
  • Formats: 26
  • Reviews: 4

In 'The Sandman,' a young man's descent into madness is driven by his fixation on a sinister figure who steals people's eyes. This classic short story, written by the renowned German author E. T. A. Hoffmann, has left an indelible mark on horror fiction and has been adapted into various forms, including ballet and film. Hoffmann's work, known for its blend of fantasy and gothic horror, has inspired numerous composers and writers, cementing his legacy in literature and the arts. The story's eerie themes and psychological depth have captivated readers for generations, making it a must-read for fans of the genre.

Reviews
Fantasy Hive · 2023-01-01
brilliant 4.50

They praise the vivid full-colour artwork and the intricate exploration of the human psyche. The review highlights the timeless appeal of the graphic novel, even decades after its initial release.

This review from Fantasy Hive is full of admiration for Neil Gaiman's The Sandman. They particularly appreciate how Gaiman and his collaborators capture both the light and dark aspects of human nature with stunning visuals. The reviewer notes that, despite being over three decades old, the story feels fresh and relevant, showcasing Gaiman's mastery of the horror genre. They also mention the beautiful full-colour artwork that brings the complex themes to life, making it a must-read for any fan of graphic novels.

Quick quotes

    Gaiman and his collaborators beautifully capture both sides of the human psyche in glorious full-colour detail.

    Some 34 years after the first issue's release, it remains a timeless and relevant piece of storytelling.

    The Sandman is a masterclass in blending horror, fantasy, and deep psychological exploration.

The Guardian · 2022-08-05
lavish 5.00

The reviewer describes the adaptation as dark and engrossing, praising its emotional depth and lavish production. They consider it a standout in the genre of fantasy epics.

The reviewer from The Guardian is captivated by the dark and engrossing nature of The Sandman adaptation. They highlight the emotional depth that sets it apart from other fantasy epics, making it a unique and compelling watch. The reviewer also praises the lavish production values, which enhance the overall viewing experience. They believe this adaptation is a standout in the genre, offering something truly special for fans of fantasy. The reviewer's enthusiasm is palpable, as they consider it one of the greatest hours of TV drama.

Quick quotes

    This dark, engrossing comic book adaptation is utterly lavish, and features an emotional depth that's almost unheard of in fantasy epics.

    Neil Gaiman has created 2022's single greatest hour of TV drama.

    The Sandman is a great series and it's impressive how much of its magic is present in these first twenty issues.

The Cosmic Circus · 2022-07-30
remarkable 4.50

The reviewer praises Gaiman's unique storytelling and compelling themes of imprisonment, freedom, and revenge. They highlight the novel's departure from traditional narratives.

The reviewer at The Cosmic Circus delves into how Neil Gaiman crafts a story that stands apart from conventional tales. They appreciate the depth and complexity of the themes explored, particularly the interplay between imprisonment and freedom. The reviewer also notes how Gaiman's unique narrative style makes The Sandman a standout work. They find the story's exploration of revenge particularly compelling, adding layers of intrigue and emotional depth. Overall, the reviewer is impressed by Gaiman's ability to weave a tale that is both engaging and thought-provoking.

Quick quotes

    Gaiman wove a very different kind of tale with The Sandman.

    His highly compelling tale of imprisonment, freedom, and revenge lacks the traditional save the ...

    The Sandman is a remarkable work, well worthy of the praise it has received over the years.

DMLongrie · D.M. Longrie · 2020-12-13
excellent 4.00

The Sandman is a classic horror story that remains relevant and chilling, showcasing Hoffmann's mastery of the genre. The narrative's exploration of the uncanny and the subconscious is both profound and disturbing.

The Sandman is a classic horror story that remains relevant and chilling, showcasing Hoffmann's mastery of the genre. The narrative's exploration of the uncanny and the subconscious is both profound and disturbing. Hoffmann's ability to weave a tale that is both chilling and thought-provoking is evident throughout, leaving a lasting impact on the reader. The story's themes of obsession and the blurred line between reality and fantasy are particularly noteworthy, making it a must-read for those interested in the darker aspects of human psychology. The Sandman is a tale that delves deep into the psyche, exploring themes of madness and trauma with a timeless relevance. The story's unsettling nature continues to resonate with readers, highlighting Hoffmann's enduring influence.

Quick quotes

    This is a classic horror story, first published in 1816 in a collection titled 'Nachtstücke' ('Night Pieces') by E. T. A. Hoffmann, a writer who is seen as a pioneer of both Romanticism and fantasy literature.

    The Sandman is a tale that delves deep into the psyche, exploring themes of madness and trauma with a timeless relevance.

    The story's exploration of the uncanny and the subconscious is both profound and disturbing, making it a seminal work in the horror genre.

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