Reading Club Reviews

February 2024, Book 1: Redwall

Redwall is the first book in the Redwall series by Brian Jaques, featuring anthropomorphic animals in a medieval fantasy setting.

In Mossflower Wood, the local animals are gathering to celebrate a year of peace and abundance. But a sinister shadow falls over the ancient stone walls of Redwall Abbey. Cluny the Scourge, an infamously evil one-eyed rat, has come to Mossflower Wood with his vicious horde with the goal of conquering Redwall Abbey. The only hope for the besiged abbey is the lost sword of the legendary Martin the Warrior, which is said to be hidden somewhere in the abbey. Guided by visions of Martin and aided by Redwall's ancient, grizzled historian Methuselah, young novice monk Matthias begins his epic quest to find the sword and save his home.

Redwall is an epic story of adventure and courage. The story is well-written, though there are some inconsistencies between this first book and the other books in the series. The plot is solid and well-executed. This is one of my longtime favorite books. The characters are interesting and distinct. Despite the size of the cast, there's never any confusions as to who's who. Even though this is a children's book, I still recommend it for readers who enjoy fantasy and adventure.