Through the Looking Glass Children's Book Reviews
Redwall: the Graphic Novel
Illustrator: Bret Blevins
Graphic Novel
For ages 9 and up
Penguin, 2007 ISBN: 978-0399244810
Matthias, a novice mouse at Redwall Abbey, cannot help dreaming of becoming a warrior like the great Redwall hero, Martin the Warrior. Abbot Mortimer tells his young charge that the "day of the warrior is gone," and that Matthias has to learn how to live a peaceful sort of life. However, the Abbot and his Redwall creatures soon discover that those times are not gone after all. As Redwall bakes in the warmth of the summer sun, Cluny the Scourge and his horde of rats arrives in Mossflower. As soon as Cluny sees Redwall he decides that he must have the great abbey for himself.
Suddenly, and with little time to prepare, the peaceful animals of Redwall have to adopt a new way of life. They have to learn how to fight and how to scheme. They have to do everything that they can to protect Redwall and to keep the mice, squirrels and other creatures that live there safe from harm.
Matthias easily steps out of his role as a bumbling novice and into a new role as the champion of Redwall. As Cluny tries to find ways to get into Redwall, Matthias seeks the legendary sword of Martin, sure in his heart that once he has the sword he will truly be Martin's heir, and that he will be able to protect his home and his friends.
Packed with gripping action, riddles and mysteries, and sprinkled with colorful characters, this graphic novel will appeal to readers of all ages.
