The ancient Sumerian poem The Epic of Gilgamesh is one of the oldest written stories in existence, translated with an introduction by Andrew George in Penguin Classics.Miraculously preserved on clay tablets dating back as much as four thousand years, the poem of Gilgamesh, king of Uruk, is the world's oldest epic, predating Homer by many centuries. The story tells of Gilgamesh's adventures with the wild man Enkidu, and of his arduous journey to the ends of the earth in quest of the Babylonian Noah and the secret of immortality. Alongside its themes of family, friendship and the duties of kings, The Epic of Gilgamesh is, above all, about mankind's eternal struggle with the fear of death.The Babylonian version has been known for over a century, but linguists are still deciphering new fragments in Akkadian and Sumerian. Andrew George's gripping translation brilliantly combines these into a fluid narrative and will long rank as the definitive English Gilgamesh. If you enjoyed The Epic of Gilgamesh, you might like Homer's Iliad, also available in Penguin Classics.'A masterly new verse translation'The Times'Andrew George has skilfully bridged the gap between a scholarly re-edition and a popular work'London Review of Books

You don't choose the book. The book chooses you…'A book I was sorry to finish.' ?????'A timeless story that emphasizes the healing and transformative power of books.' ?????–Long ago, a bookshop was born – the beating heart of all those who find hope within the pages of a book. With the words penned upon the echo of old forests, new worlds are created. It’s ready and waiting to welcome all those who know where to find it…Strangers Jo, Adelaide and Kye are the least likely people to find themselves across the threshold of a bookshop.But as their midnight book club shows them that a single book can change everything, all three realise that their own stories can be rewritten.–Readers love The Midnight Bookshop…'This was an emotional and heartfelt read and had me invested from the start.' ?????'A thoroughly uplifting enjoyable read that will certainly leave you feeling better with the world. Amanda James always seems to write intriguing, sensitive books with that touch of magic and The Midnight Bookshop is no exception.' ?????'To appreciate the book fully you have to leave any preconceived ideas at the first page and open up you mind to a magical world.' ?????'This is quite an intriguing and magical story of fantasy and realism [and] in many ways, is a complex novel about relationships and Amanda James successfully weaves magic with realism to create a potent tale in an unforgettable way.' ?????'The book underscores the importance of community and self-reflection, especially in a time when many people feel isolated or overwhelmed.' ?????'This book had me rooting for all three of them and didn't disappoint.' ?????'[Amanda James’] writing so beautifully captured all the emotions throughout the novel.' ?????'Those who enjoy [magical realism] are going to love the fairytale aspects of this charming, well-written book with its uplifting message and sweet romance.' ?????

About the Author Amanda James has written since she was a child and even asked her parents for a typewriter for Christmas. She never imagined her words would ever be published. In 2010 the dream of becoming a writer came true when she had her first short story published.Originally from Sheffield, Amanda now lives in Cornwall and is inspired every day by the wild and beautiful coastline. She can usually be found playing on the beach with her family, or walking the cliff paths planning her next book.