Redwall by Brian Jacques

 This was a reread of a childhood favorite that had a big part in developing my love of reading.

The story has been etched onto my heart. I recalled each scene as the chapter began. Perhaps because of this I found the reread a tad difficult, as it wasn't as exciting as I remembered. Or maybe my tastes have changed as an adult.

I still enjoyed it.

I had forgotten how much Jacques packed into this book. So much is happening! Yet it never felt confusing.

Also, the story has a gigantic cast of characters, but Jacques masterfully made it easy to recall each character instantly. Partly having the characters be different animals made it easy to remember. The bad guys had such hilariously wonderful names it was hard to forget them. Lastly, each character has a delightfully different personality. It is amazing to me how many distinct characters Jacques created for this novel.

The battle sequences are bloody. More-so than you would expect from a "children's" book, but then again, I do not think the author set out to make a children's book. I think he set out to create a great book, that also just so happens to be beloved by children. If you are a parent looking for a book for your child, do not worry, there is blood, but I would not call it graphic and the philosophy behind the book is a good one.

A great book.