I have quite a few Marvel art books. I also have quite a few Marvel preludes. This is the perfect blend of both! The Art of the War of the Realms is a perfect primer for those looking to catch up before reading the event (whether you have been reading Aaron's Thor run all along or not) and also enjoy a copious amount of stunning artwork.

The book opens with an introduction by Aaron about taking on the Thor series, and how his desire to "go big, or go home" with the character grew into a multi-year series culminating in a major crossover event. The book covers The God Butcher, the impact of original sin, the tenure of Jane Foster's Thor and the current Odinson: wielding some hammers, but still "unworthy". Aaron's run has had three principle artists and this book addresses each in turn. It is filled with gorgeous artwork, but the text truly enhances it. In addition to input from Aaron, the artists also talk about the material, their response to it and even their favorite covers.

Overall, this is an excellent book with a lot of substance that really deserved a hardcover release. It's an essential companion to the event, but more importantly to Aaron's seminal run of Thor. Highly recommended! ( )