Redwall (Redwall, Book 1-3 - Softcover

Jacques, Brian

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0399236295 ISBN 13: 9780399236297

Publisher: Philomel Books, 2000

Synopsis

The question in this first volume is resoundingly clear: What can the peace-loving mice of Redwall Abbey do to defend themselves against Cluny the Scourge and his battle-seasoned army of rats? If only they had the sword of Martin the Warrior, they might have a chance. But the legendary weapon has long been forgotten-except, that is, by the bumbling young apprentice Matthias, who becomes the unlikeliest of heroes. Teeming with riddles, humor, unforgettable characters, and high-bounding adventure, the original Redwall, the launching point for a series that has captured the world's attention, features seven full-color illustrations by renowned illustrator Troy Howell. This new paperback edition is a must-have for both longtime fans and first-time readers.

About this title

Review:

There's something wonderful in hearing an author read his or her own work. And when that work is an epic adventure with a mouse for a hero and a rat for a villain, it's also just plain fun. This entertaining fantasy opens with Matthias, a clumsy young mouse who has big dreams of becoming a warrior. "Poor Matthias, alas for your ambition," says the head mouse of the peaceful little group. "The day of the warrior is gone." But even as the words are spoken, that day is about to change. Led by the deliciously evil Cluny the Scourge, a savage army of rats is heading for Redwall, destroying anything in its way: "A farmhouse set alight ... piglets, an entire litter of them eaten alive." Matthias is about to get his wish--the only thing that can save the idyllic world of Redwall is a true warrior. But, as the little mouse quickly learns, that's a title that must be earned.

Yes, the characters are mice and rats (and a badger and a few birds), but there are no song-and-dance numbers here. These mammals take their quest seriously, and author Brian Jacques narrates his tale with all the drama and passion of an old-time storyteller. The full cast of talented but little-known actors rounds out the story and helps bring the memorable characters of Redwall to complete and vivid life. (Running time: 10 hours and 43 minutes, eight cassettes) --Sara Nickerson

From the Inside Flap:

Read by the author and a full cast
Three cassettes / 3 hours 5 mins.

When Redwall was published in 1987 it catipulted author Brian Jacques to international stardom.  Ans small wonder!  This enthralling tale is jam-packed with the things we long for in a great adventure:  danger, laughter, hairbreath excapes, tragedy, mystery, a touch of wonder, a truly despicable villain, and a hero we can take to heart.

That hero is Matthias, a young mouse who must rise above his fears and failures to save his friends at Redwall Abbey.  The villain is Cluny the Scourage, one of the most deliciously despicable rats of all time.  The unforgettable cast of supporting characters includes the stalwart badger Constance, an irrepressible hare named Basil Stag Hare, and the elderly wisemouse Brother Methuselah.

But most of all there is Matthias, seeking his true destiny in a journey that will lead through danger and despair to true wisdom.

About this edition

• Publisher: Philomel Books
• Publication date: 2000
• ISBN 10: 0399236295
• ISBN 13: 9780399236297
• Binding: Paperback
• Number of pages: 352
• Illustrator: Howell Troy