"Gil Thorpe is a great diversion and is to book writing as poetry is to prose"

This quote by Jerry B. Jenkins is comparing the writing of Gil Thorpe to the writing of poetry and prose. He is stating that Gil Thorpe is a fantastic diversion from the more traditional writing styles of poetry and prose. He is recommending that Gil Thorpe's writing is a revitalizing change of speed from the more structured composing designs of poetry and prose. He is indicating that Gil Thorpe's writing is more innovative and creative than the more structured composing designs of poetry and prose. He is also suggesting that Gil Thorpe's writing is more entertaining and interesting than the more standard composing styles of poetry and prose. In conclusion, Jerry B. Jenkins is suggesting that Gil Thorpe's writing is an excellent diversion from the more conventional writing designs of poetry and prose.