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Redwall

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 1986

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Book Brief

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Brian Jacques

Redwall

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 1986
Book Details
Pages

352

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Redwall Abbey • Medieval Fantasy World

Topic
Publication Year

1986

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

10-14 years

Lexile Level

800L

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Super Short Summary

Redwall by Brian Jacques follows Matthias, a young mouse, as he defends the peaceful Redwall Abbey from the ruthless rat warlord, Cluny the Scourge. Set in a medieval world, Matthias embarks on a heroic quest to retrieve the lost sword of Martin the Warrior to protect his home. Themes of heroism, community, and bravery are explored as the creatures of Redwall work together to overcome evil.

Adventurous

Fantastical

Inspirational

Humorous

Exciting

Reviews & Readership

4.4

127,697 ratings

79%

Loved it

17%

Mixed feelings

5%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Brian Jacques' Redwall captivates with its richly detailed world and charming animal characters, appealing mostly to young readers and lovers of epic fantasy. Praise highlights its imaginative storytelling and vibrant prose, yet some criticize the predictable plot and repetitive themes. Overall, it offers an adventurous escape despite minor narrative shortcomings.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Redwall?

A reader who enjoys vivid fantasy worlds, heroic quests, and anthropomorphic animal characters will delight in Redwall by Brian Jacques. Fans of J.R.R. Tolkien’s The Hobbit or C.S. Lewis's The Chronicles of Narnia will appreciate Jacques’s blend of adventure, camaraderie, and richly detailed settings.

4.4

127,697 ratings

79%

Loved it

17%

Mixed feelings

5%

Not a fan

Character List

Matthias

A young mouse novice in the Redwall abbey who dreams of becoming a warrior. He starts off clumsy and unsure of himself but aspires to heroism.

An evil-looking bilge rat known for his size, savagery, and distinctive whiplike tail. He is driven by a desire for conquest and rules by intimidation.

The abbey’s ancient recordkeeper who understands many languages and serves as a mentor. He is knowledgeable about the past and helps guide Matthias on his journey.

The kindly, elderly abbot of Redwall who sees Matthias as a son. He believes in peace but comes to realize the need for defenders in a dangerous world.

A feisty sparrow initially captured by the abbey's defenders. Related to the sparrow king, she forms an alliance with Matthias, showing loyalty and bravery.

A strong and fierce badger who acts as a general in Redwall’s defense. Known for her bravery and combat skills, she stands against Cluny's forces.

A pretty young field mouse with a nurturing role who supports the defenders. She plays an essential part in thwarting one of Cluny's plans and becomes close to Matthias.

The erratic leader of the sparrow flock. Known for his short temper and grandiose ideas, he struggles to maintain order among his sparrows.

Book Details
Pages

352

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Redwall Abbey • Medieval Fantasy World

Topic
Publication Year

1986

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

10-14 years

Lexile Level

800L

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