Book details
Gilgamesh the Hero
Description
A major publishing event - two of the UK's outstanding prize-winning artists working together for the first time
The legend of Gilgamesh is the oldest written story, pre-dating both The Bible and The Iliad. An epic story about a quest for immortality, it also includes a legend of the Flood that is remarkably similar to the story of Noah.
BLGeraldine McCaughrean has won every major prize for children's literature in this country, including the Carnegie Medal, the Whitbread Award, the Guardian Children's Fiction Award, and, most recently, The Blue Peter Best Book to Keep Forever Award.
BLDavid Parkins is a highly acclaimed artist, and has been shortlisted for the Kurt Maschler and Smarties awards. He received many critical accolades for God's Story with Jan Mark
Age
11-15
Text complexity
intermediate
Length
96 pages
Book in series
#1
Why to read
- Cultural Enrichment: 'Gilgamesh the Hero' offers readers a chance to immerse themselves in one of the oldest known pieces of literature, providing a unique glimpse into ancient Mesopotamian culture, mythology, and values.
- Timeless Themes: Despite its ancient origins, the epic explores universal themes such as friendship, the quest for fame, the fear of death, and the search for immortality, which continue to resonate with modern audiences.
- Engaging Adaptation: Geraldine McCaughrean's retelling of the Epic of Gilgamesh is crafted with a contemporary audience in mind, making the complex story accessible and engaging for readers of all ages without losing the essence of the original epic.
- Literary Appreciation: Reading 'Gilgamesh the Hero' allows readers to appreciate the art of storytelling and the evolution of literature, as they witness how ancient narratives have influenced modern stories and continue to shape our collective imagination.