The Absolute Sandman, Vol. 4

Despite Second Tier Art, Gaiman DeliversA review of Ultimate Sandman Volume FourBy Michael DeMerittThis is the penultimate of graphic art story telling, otherwise know as comic books. Neil Gaiman's Sandman stories are by the far the greatest fantastical setting tied to a modern world with real problems written in comic book form. Volumes 1, 2 and 3 are superior to volume 4 only because the art is significantly better. The last issues of Sandman decided to take an ugly, if not boring, turn artistically. The result separates the reader from the characters they have come to love and fear. It is unfortunate the overly cartoon style was incorporated in the final story run of an otherwise fantastic series, but the story to be told is just as powerful as those that came before it. So well written, in fact, you simply look at the so-so art for reference and allow yourself to get lost in the story. Despite the distracting drawings. Ironically, the latter effort becomes more short story than any of the prior works because the art has so little impact on the tale. Unlike most of the earlier Sandman efforts, it can simply be read aloud, with little descriptive moments, and have pretty much the same impact as if you never looked at the pages at all. A great read.

If you are going to purchase an Absolute series, these are the ones to get. All of these books are just incredible. They tell an amazing story, and contain some of the best comic art I've ever seen, which only looks more grandiose in this oversized edition. Each book has a table of contents, sewn binding, thick paper, vibrant ink, and some great extras.As for volume four, this is the ending of the series. Though there is a volume five, it only contains short stories or one-shots that don't directly pertain to the main story thread. As for the ending, Gaiman wraps everything up. All of the side stories and the main story arc come crashing together in such a way that will leave you wanting more, but excepting that there won't be.Though the omnibus is out, and is nice, I highly recommend you overlooking it and grabbing the Absolute set instead. This artwork should be seen in this format, and it is such a incredible product, you have no excuse for settling for anything less. Buy this!

Final Absolute of the main saga. What an amazing story and an amazing format. I personally love the new inking compared to the TPB color work. So much clearer. As you probably know by know, the slip cases are eye popping and the books are elegant, beautiful, and massive: this is the definitive format in my opinion. I definitely plan on getting the Preacher Absolutes next now that I know the quality level. After that, I'll slowly add the other 3 Absolutes related to Sandman: Volume 5, Sandman Overture, and Death.

2nd absolute from Amazon and another winner! No flaws at all. Incredible ending for this main story. Came ahead of schedule again.

i own the collection and find myself leafing through my favorite parts of each volume many a rainy day--or any other day i need an excuse to stay inside. in testimony to the pure beauty and poetry of the art and prose i will state quite honestly that, after the dog and cat, my beloved sandman collection--all 30+ lbs of it--is number 3 on my 'get it out of the burning house' list.

I got all of the Absolutes before having even read this story as I expected I would love it from what I'd heard. Fortunately, my investment was well worth it as not only did I love the Journey that dream goes on, but I also love how beautiful these books are.

Not quite as impressive as the previous three albums, both in story and graphics, except for some sections. Still a worthy conclusion to the saga

The Absolute Sandman editions are just so amazing. Oversized, hardcover with slipcase, great quality regarding paper and ink. This is top of the line when it comes to collections. I will not go so much into the storyline since this collections contiunues right after the privious and to have the complete collection you really need all 4, right? These looks so good in my bookshelf. More comics should be presented like this. 5 stars, no complaints!