Griffin Reads – Mossflower

Title: Mossflower

Author: Brian Jacques

Genre: Fantasy, Children’s Literature

Summary: “Mossflower,” written by Brian Jacques, is the second book in the beloved Redwall series, serving as a prequel to the first book, “Redwall.” The novel tells the tale of Martin the Warrior, a brave mouse who journeys to Mossflower Wood, where the peaceful woodland creatures are oppressed by the tyrannical wildcat Tsarmina. With the help of new friends, including Gonff the mousethief and Dinny the mole, Martin leads a rebellion against Tsarmina to restore peace and freedom to Mossflower. The story is rich with adventure, camaraderie, and the timeless battle between good and evil.

Content Guide:

• Mild fantasy violence
• No explicit content
• Themes of bravery, friendship, and justice

My Thoughts:

I’ve long been a fan of Brian Jacques’ Redwall series. The first one I read was actually “Mattemeo,” which is probably the worst place to start because it’s one of the few novels in the series that is a direct sequel to another installment. “Mossflower” serves as a much better introduction. While it’s technically a prequel to the first book, it lacks the first-time jitters and sometimes lethargic pacing of the first installment.

It kind of surprises me to find that these books are primarily marketed towards children these days. Granted, they are often playful with a richly detailed world of anthropomorphic animals, but Jacques doesn’t shy away from exploring deeper themes and occasional dark situations. Don’t let the marketing fool you. This is an engaging read for both young and older audiences.

The characters in “Mossflower” are vividly drawn if somewhat simplistic, each with their own distinct personalities and quirks. Martin the Warrior is a standard hero, embodying courage and integrity, while his companions, like the roguish Gonff and the steadfast Dinny, provide humor and heart. The villain, Tsarmina, is suitably menacing, adding tension and urgency to the narrative.

What I particularly appreciate about Jacques’ writing is his ability to create a sense of place. The world of Mossflower Wood comes alive with lush descriptions and a palpable sense of history. And anyone who’s ever read a Redwall book will know about Jacques’ elaborate descriptions of the magnificent feasts his characters enjoy. A warning to all readers: don’t read this book while hungry.

“Mossflower” is a must-read for fans of fantasy and adventure. Brian Jacques’ masterful storytelling and rich world-building make this book a timeless classic that continues to enchant readers. Whether you’re a longtime fan of the Redwall series or discovering it for the first time, “Mossflower” is a journey worth taking.