Book details
Gil Marsh
Description
Good looking, athletic, and smart, Gil Marsh is the most popular kid at Uruk High School. When Enko, a new kid from Montreal, shows up, Gil is wary. Yet Enko is easy going and matches Gil's athletic prowess without being a threat. Soon, the two become inseparable friends, practicing, studying, and double-dating. Then suddenly, to everyone's shock, Enko succombs to an aggressive cancer. When Enko's parents return to Canada, Gil is unable to even say good bye. He is inconsolable. Determined to find Enko's grave, Gil sneaks away and heads north. Bauer's retelling of the Sumerian King from 3000 BC, carefully weaves the classic elements of myth to follow Gil's quest and explore the grief and growth of a young man.
Age
12-15
Text complexity
intermediate
Length
192 pages
Why to read
- Engaging Retelling of a Classic Tale: 'Gil Marsh' is a contemporary retelling of the ancient Epic of Gilgamesh, one of the earliest pieces of literature. Reading this book offers a modern twist on the timeless themes of friendship, loss, and the quest for immortality, making it relevant for today's readers.
- Character Development: The novel focuses on the journey of the protagonist, Gil Marsh, as he deals with the loss of his friend Enko. Readers can relate to Gil's emotional growth and his struggle to come to terms with grief, which is a universal human experience.
- Exploration of Identity and Resilience: 'Gil Marsh' delves into the concepts of identity and resilience as the main character embarks on a journey of self-discovery. This book can inspire readers to reflect on their own lives and the challenges they face, encouraging personal growth.
- Accessible Mythology: A. C. E. Bauer presents the complex themes and motifs of the Epic of Gilgamesh in a way that is accessible to a young adult audience. This book serves as an excellent introduction to mythology and ancient literature, potentially sparking an interest in further exploration of these subjects.