Mark Buckingham

Twelve-year-old Odd has never had much luck. Living in an ancient Norwegian village, he has lost his father to the sea, crushed his leg beneath a falling tree, and is now stuck in a brutal, unending winter. Hoping for a little peace, Odd limps into the freezing forest, only to stumble right into a legend. After freeing a trapped bear, Odd discovers that his new furry companion—along with a cynical fox and a proud eagle—are actually Norse gods in disguise. Thor, Loki, and Odin have been banished from Asgard by the towering, terrifying Frost Giants, and they need help. Armed with nothing but a crutch, a cheerful attitude, and a fiercely clever mind, Odd agrees to journey to the realm of the gods. To save Asgard and end the eternal winter, this unlikely hero must outsmart the giants and reclaim Thor's stolen hammer. Blending ancient mythology with sharp humor, this magical adventure proves that you do not need incredible strength to defeat monsters. Sometimes, all it takes is a little bit of bravery and a very sharp wit.