While I've been reading Greek mythology since I was a child, I'm less familiar with Norse myths so I've wanted for a while to learn more about them. Gaiman's book provided the right balance (for enjoyment purposes) of feeling like a book of short stories rather than a textbook, but having more detail than the many retellings aimed at children. 

I did have some issues with the writing - it felt inconsistent to me, as if sometimes it was in the style of modern storytelling, sometimes emulating ancient writers, and other times more in keeping with the aforementioned children's books. I know I'm probably in the minority with this opinion because many people adore Gaiman's writing, but I've come to the conclusion that it just doesn't work for me - every book of his I've read (with the exception of Good Omens where he is a co-author) has left me feeling a bit disappointed even when I've enjoyed the story (although I do like some of his writing for TV). 

I do think that the cover of this edition is stunning, and I also love the naked hardcover.