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When Men are Mice

© Melanie Howard

The most fascinating thing about Brian Jacques' children's fantasy series, Redwall, is that it's not about men. It's about mice, and other woodland creatures, who live and have adventures as though they were men, with quite a few challenges that are unique to animals as well.

Redwall, the first book in the series, is one of my two favorites in the series. I can't seem to decide whether I like Martin the Warrior or Redwall better. I can't imagine having liked Martin the Warrior as well if I hadn't read Redwall first, which is another example of why it is always helpful to read a series in order. I think it spoils the fun, as many times a book later in the series will do a recap of the book or books before it within the first few chapters, and it ruins the surprise. But, sufficing to say, Redwall got me hooked, and had more than whetted my appetite before Martin the Warrior was ever printed.

Redwall is one of the two books that may have been my first real fantasy novel, and I love it, mostly because it is so innovative. My favorite characters are the moles. They have their own dialect. All of the characters and different types of animals have mannerisms and legends and heroes and they all converge in Redwall Abbey, where they are always having a feast or celebration... or are under siege. By rats, stoats, ferrets, all manner of fowl little vermin, pirate and pilliager, trying to get within its peaceful sandstone walls. Redwall is the beginning of an ongoing series of legend and adventure, each of them so detailed, right down to the food, that you can't help but be fascinated.

The legend begins, or rather continues, as you later discover, with Matthius, a young mouse living in Redwall Abbey. With the help of his friends, he discovers the secrets that will unlock a legend... and bring the rebirth of Martin the Warrior, the mighty hero mouse of lore who saved the Abbey once... and is needed again.

I recommend this as a read aloud book. It's a truly excellent story.

On a scale of one to ten, Redwall gets a whole hearted ten.

Happy reading! - Mel

This is the best site for info on and about Brian Jacques and the Redwall series:

http://www.redwall.org/

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