Dive into the captivating history of the Normans in Europe, beginning with the fierce Viking invasions that emerged from the rugged terrains and deep fjords of Scandinavia. Author Johnson vividly explores how their legends of struggle and valor, featuring frost giants and the cunning Loki, encapsulated their dual passions for resilience and warfare. These adventurous warriors swept through England, Germany, and France, navigating the continent in their shallow-draft, half-decked ships. Wherever they ventured, they proved to be formidable fighters, visionary founders, and skilled administrators. Meet iconic figures such as Rollo the Ganger, Harald Bluetooth, and Sven Forkbeard, along with their legendary descendants William the Conqueror, the reckless William Rufus, the ill-fated crusader Robert, and the shrewd King Henry. - Summary by Pamela Nagami, M.D.