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Redwall (Redwall, Book 1)

(1986, Fiction - Fantasy, Written by Brian Jacques)
  • Is it age appropriate?

    About our ratings

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    Not age appropriate for kids under 8, age appropriate for kids over 10; suggested age 10.
  • Is it any good?

    4.0
  • Common Sense says

    Exciting tale promotes peace in the face of war.

Why We Rated This on for Ages 10 and Up

The good stuff

  • Messages:

    Not an issue.
 

What to watch out for

  • Violence:

    War is waged in defense of the Abbey. The deaths are sometimes inflicted by gruesome methods. Violent rats and a monstrous adder might frighten younger readers.
  • Sex:

    Not an issue.
  • Language:

    Not an issue.
  • Consumerism:

    Not an issue.
  • Drinking, drugs, & smoking:

    There are brief references to the partiality of some animals to the ale at the abbey and a mention of an animal being "tipsy."
 

What Parents Need to Know

About Redwall (Redwall, Book 1)

Parents need to know that this is an exciting and well-told tale, but sophisticated language might deter younger or less experienced readers. Challenging vocabulary and rich, descriptive passages will help readers to improve their language skills. Though characters go to war, the inherent value of a peaceful existence is promoted.

Did this review help you decide?

Families Can Talk About

  • Families can talk about the book's unique use of language and how it serves to set the tone of the story. Is this book set in a fantastical place, or a realistic one that could actually exist? Why or why not? Were there any new vocabulary words that you learned while reading the book? What were they -- and do you remember what they mean? What kinds of tips, if any, did you pick up about effective storytelling?

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Our Members Say

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See all 16 member reviews

Most Recent Reviews

  1. Teen Reviewer Age 13
    I rate this title on for age 12 and give it 5.0
    My concerns are:
    • Excessive violence
    • Inappropriate language

    Wonderful book, but too violent for young kids.

    I love this book, and all of the other books in the Redwall series that I've read! This book does contain some intense violence and mild language, so I'd say 12+.

  2. Teen Reviewer Age 14
    Lives in Michigan
    I rate this title on for age 2 and give it 5.0

  3. Kid Reviewer Age 12
    Lives in North Carolina
    I rate this title on for age 2 and give it 5.0

    My Favorite Book Ever!

    The title says it all!

  4. Kid Reviewer Age 12
    Lives in Oklahoma
    I rate this title on for age 2 and give it 5.0

    A very discriptive and intresting book.

    This book is very intresting and descriptive. (Brian volunteers for the blind)Though if one can't desipher what mixed up words (moles and sparrows have words like these) the book might become unintresting. I highly recomend it.

  5. Teen Reviewer Age 14
    Lives in Virginia
    I rate this title on for age 2 and give it 5.0

    An awesome book for all ages!

    I have most of the Redwall series and have read more of it. Brian Jacque's captivating descriptions of feasts and wars can make anyone feel like they're in the book itself. I love the feel of the story and that he breaks it up into three smaller books, so you can pace your reading to a 'book' every two days. I recommend it to anyone who like fantasy and animals, but not for those who don't like a good medieval battle.

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