From the Advocate (Walcha):
John Heffernan has a new picture book out, illustrated by local artist Kate Durack. Two Tales of Brothers from Ancient Mesopotamia tells two pivotal stories from the Epic of Gilgamesh, one of the oldest tales ever written. “These are stories of great warriors and grand battles from the mists of time,” says John Heffernan. “And yet they are set around an area that has recently seen some of the most brutal fighting in the Middle East, Syria and Iraq. To me there is something disturbingly timeless about that.”
The book has only been published a few weeks but has already had three glowing reviews, including a Highly Recommended from Reading Time, the magazine of the Children’s Book Council of Australia. “I can’t claim any credit for that,” John insists. “Gilgamesh is already a thumping good yarn, pumped with action; I’ve only had to re-tell it. Kate’s visuals are what lift this book to that special level. I hope everyone in Walcha will have a look at it.”
And everyone can have a look. The book will be launched at the Walcha Gallery of Art on Friday June 17th at 6.30pm, along with an exhibition of drawings and paintings by Kate. Author and publisher Sophie Masson will launch the book, Kate will say a few words, and John will give a short reading. Copies will be available for sale and signing.
As an added bonus, there will also be an exhibition of works by Stephen King: TO BIRDSVILLE AND BACK.
Two Tales of Brothers from Ancient Mesopotamia is published by Christmas Press.
ISBN 978-0-99423-404-9 RRP $19.99
Christmas Press 