Book Recommendations (1 )
Gilgamesh the King is the first book in a trilogy that is based on the ancient story that was found inscribed on clay tablets in the middle east. The artwork captures elements of that ancient world and produces imagery that transports us to the culture of those times. The Gilgamesh story contains important concepts such as conflict and friendship, the use and abuse of political power, searching for a meaning to life and legacy, and experiencing loss and sadness. The second book as retold by Ludmila Zeman is The Revenge of Ishtar and the third is The Last Quest of Gilgamesh.
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This story occurs in a different time and place but it is something that still occurs today in our own society and in others around the world. The story describes the life of a boy in a community that has its own traditions and culture that is invaded by a people that have different ideas and beliefs. He shares his experience on how he loves his traditions and the violation he feels at having what he loves suppressed. The images beautifully convey the feeling of togetherness and peace among the family as they enjoy each others company and presence. These positive emotions are exchanged for fear when the army arrives.
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It is a story of exploration and discovery. It is a story that precedes other stories and serves as a foundation for what becomes of the people and civilizations of the Americas past and present. The artwork conveys the feeling of expectation and mystery as they sail into unfamiliar parts of the world not certain of what to expect. They are presented as ordinary human beings. There is no exaggeration. The story ends peacefully and to me with a feeling of incompleteness as it does not provide any hint of the history that will follow these first few moments of contact with the Americas. Read it and then continue that journey through history to the present.
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