Graphic+Novel+Evaluations

Texas Library Association //Redwall: The Graphic Novel// //Redwall: The Graphic Novel// Jacques, Brian and illustrated by Bret Blevins Philomel Books, 2007

An introduction to the Redwall series by Brian Jacques, featuring the mice of Redwall Abbey who are under attack by the rats led by Cluny the Scourge. The clumsiest mouse, Matthias, is called upon by the spirit of the great warrior mouse, Martin the Warrior, to discover the hiding place of his sword and save Redwall Abbey from the rats. During his quest, Matthias befriends the shrews, the sparrows, unites the great owl, Captain Snow, and the fickle feline, Squire Julian Gingivere to aid the mice of Redwall Abbey. Matthias gains wisdom and stature through the course of the novel, eventually slaying the evil snake, Asmodeus, who has stolen the sword of Martin the Warrior. This act of bravery allows Matthias to conquer the rats and save his beloved Redwall.

Audience: Grades 4-6

Colorful cover in the style of the Redwall novels lures readers into the story. Illustrations are all in black and white. The story flows easily from one frame to the next. Occasional frames are embedded within larger frames, aiding readers with additional information. Illustrations add new information not provided in the text, furthering readers' comprehension.

Although the illustrations are in black and white, they are full of details, giving readers a look into the character of both villains and heroes and a feeling of being part of the action.

//Redwall: The Graphic Novel// is full of adventure and excitement as the peaceful mice of Redwall struggle to preserve the haven that they have created. It is a great introduction to the popular Redwall series and serves as an easy to read introduction to the much longer books of the series.

Overall score for the book was 21, ranking it as a good book. It circulates well in my library and has encouraged some of my students to read the longer novels.

Hilary Haygood