Gilgmesh is set in the south west of Western Australia and is the story of a journey from the new world to the old. Frank brings Ada, his English bride to Nunderup as part of the soldier resettlement scheme after the First World War. Edith and Frances are the two daughters born. The family lives in isolation and poverty compared to the other settlers. Frank dies, leaving the two girls with their mother. In 1937, their cousin Leopold and his Armenian friend Aram visit the family. The two young men have been involved in an archaeological dig in Iraq. The contact with these two young men is exotic for the girls. They tell the story of Gilgamesh the King of Urek in ancient Mesopotamia, who, after the death of his friend went on a journey to search for eternal life. His journey was long and arduous, but he comes to an understanding of what is important in life. Leopold and Aram are on such a journey. After the birth of her son Jim, Edith travels firstly to England and then at the outbreak of war to Armenia to find Aram. Her experiences during this time reflect the ideals of love, friendship and loss. Her experiences lead Edith finally to return to Australia and her sister Frances. Back in Australia the relationship between the sisters and the son and nephew change and grow. The sense of journey is all-important to the understanding of the novel.

This is a beautifully written novel which is a challenge to the older reader. London writes in a spare poetic style in which each carefully chosen word carries the story. Reflection on the themes explored in the novel is demanded of the reader.