I chose Vol 1 as a starting point for entering the Marvel universe (outside of movies) and so far have been delighted with this series. Volume 3 continues the engaging stories that first drew me in. Though Loki has been reincarnated as a young teen, with all the adventure and hi-jinks you would expect such an idea to entail, there is also a serious, sad tinge to them. Loki wanted a new beginning, but everyone else remembers the villain and he is constantly harassed for being someone he cannot remember. Perhaps the author is sneaking in a very subtle lesson on bullying? I'm not sure, but it gives these comics a depth I never anticipated.

Since losing Thor in Vol 2, Loki now finds himself unprotected and under the thumb of the new All-Mothers of Asgard (Freyja, Gaia and Idunn), who seek to use him for their own purposes. In addition, children across the globe are having nightmares, tied to his own. Dreams have power, nigthmares especially. His nightmare reveals the guilt he feels over Thor, and his actions to save the world. Did the ends justify the means? Though there is a dark undercurrent, the story has a lot of humor. Much of it coming from Loki and Leah, and his use of modern terms and technology ("how can you be bored when you have the internet?"). But, still more is added when the author breaks the fourth wall - and addresses the reader directly at the start of each section. This threw me off at first, but I quickly realized it's a fun tool for providing the reader with background or exposition.

Overall, this book had action and adventure aplenty, with intrigue and humor to balance it. Highly recommended - and I cannot wait for Journey into Mystery, Vol. 4: The Manchester Gods! ( )