A four issue mini-series, running from March-June 2002, featuring Thessaly, former lover of Morpheus, and last of the Thessalian witches, whom we were first introduced in "The Sandman: A Game of You".

Told from the narrative viewpoint of Fetch (hired by death gods obviously attached to individual mythologies) who heads off to hunt down Thessaly. Why hunt down an unassuming mousy-looking creature? As we know, looks can be quite deceiving. Little do we know that eventhough her power may be dormant for now, the fact remains that she is feared by all the gods, both past and present.

Why do celestial beings (gods and demons alike) like to live amongst mortals every now and then? It's because alliances shift, and one who used to be powerful may find the need to lie low until such a time for rebirth comes along. Why don't humans notice this? "For the most part, you seem content to stumble blissfully through your insignificant lives, unaware of anything that doesn't directly relate to whatever it is you want at any given moment."

On a more interesting note, the Daughters of Garm seemed impressive enough since they were bred to hunt down oathbreakers and the souls of the forsworn dead, until they were obliterated by Thessaly in one go. It'll entertain a Sandman fan to catch a glimpse or two of some cameos from "The Sandman" series like that of Barbie's stuffed animals companions, Leticia Hall's husband, Orpheus, Abel etc. Oh you're going to love the Allegorical Subway (and its route) plus the mocking of a hero's supposed traditional quest before exacting revenge or whatever comes first.

I also have to agree with Fetch's assessment of Thessaly being the universal poster child of squandered opportunity. If I had her life and her powers, I'd definitely be doing something more creative than living a bland college life!

Book Details:

Title The Sandman Presents: The Thessaliad
Author Bill Willingham
Reviewed By Purplycookie ( )