This is the second Redwall book I have read (the first being the first book in the series), and I enjoyed it more than the first! I was nice to have most of the story outside of Redwall and see more of the world and lore. There was a nice mix of old characters and new, all of which distinct and unique. Sister May rose as my favorite in this book. I hope she appears again in some of the other books!

All in all, another enjoyable read! A colorful cast of characters and good villain. The pacing was just right with a lot of good action and suspense. ( )

Predictable plot. The character of Baby Rollo and the food are the only redeeming qualities. This book was just...cute. ( )

This review is also featured on Behind the Pages: Mattimeo

Mattimeo may be the son of Matthias the hero, but he is still a young mouse who tests the rules of Redwall Abbey. When he strikes out at a guest of the Abbey his fellow Redwallers are taken aback. Despite Mattimeo only doing so to defend his family’s honor. At times the animals of Redwall Abbey are too forgiving and trusting. When a traveling band of creatures appears on their doorstep, they allow the group within their walls. Little do they know, the fox Slagar has his eyes on Mattimeo. As soon as the chance arises, Slagar kidnaps Mattimeo and his friends, whisking them off to be sold as slaves.

With every Redwall book, there is a balance of good and evil. The creatures of the abbey are the epitome of good natured and wholesome folk. Though some may have mischievous tendencies, they genuinely care for one another. The lengths to which they will go to rescue their own are admirable. And on the opposing side, Brian Jacques creates such cleverly evil characters to set against the Redwallers. Slagar is cunning, cruel, and fueled by revenge. He would sacrifice his crew if it meant saving his own life. And stealing the children of those who you seek vengeance on is the lowest of low.

Mattimeo was a delight to read. This tale combines two classic tropes, coming of age and the path to becoming a hero. Mattimeo has a lot to learn, and a temper to curb to be the strength his friends need. He’s impulsive and is quick to anger when fear overcomes courage in his friends. While he believes they should be able to fight to escape, not all creatures can stand up to their oppressors. To witness characters struggle and ultimately become their better selves never grows old. Mattimeo may start rough around the edges, but his time with Slagar and the slavers will bring about a healthy dose of character development and push him towards becoming a hero like his father.

Brian Jacques creates characters and settings in a way that will make readers feel as if they are coming home to lifelong friends and familiar settings. There’s always an overarching puzzle or riddle to be solved that will ultimately aid in Redwall’s success and just enough tension laced within the scenes. I admire how he details his battles, depicting the clash between heroes and villains in a way that is safe for all ages. And while not every hero can be saved, he depicts their deaths in ways that honor their memories and gives peace to both the reader and the characters.

Mattimeo is another wonderful addition to the story of Redwall. While it is the third published book, it is the direct sequel to book one, Redwall. But each book is written so that readers can start at any point in the series. If you enjoy reading about a community of characters who are willing to risk their lives to save one of their own, you need to pick up this series. ( )

One of my all time favorite series! I love each and every one! A great book for young adults, and adults alike! I'm in college, and still read these, and enjoy them each! Good for animal lovers, adventures, and those who just like a good tale of good over evil! ( )

I read the first two Redwall books many years ago as a younger (not young) adult, from curiosity. This third one (in publication order) I had the pleasure of reading with my young son, after he enjoyed the first two. It is a few years after the defeat of Cluny's army, and Matthias' son Mattimeo is old enough to be having his own adventures as a precocious child. A new villain (or is he?) kidnaps him, and off we go. I liked that this book broke new ground, moving away from the 'castle under siege' story of the first two books. I also liked learning the new villain's identity, and how that expands on the story. The characters are what sells this series, and it was fun to invent different reading voices for them. The world of Redwall still confuses me (what is the relative size of these animals? why all the confusing poetry puzzles instead of explaining things clearly? and how/why do these animals eat SO MUCH?) but its heart is always in the right place. The edge of violence and tragedy in these stories adds a hint of danger to the proceedings, sometimes sad and sometimes horrible, even while we know that all must turn out well in the end. There's an especially high body count among the evil-doers this time. I suppose we're not meant to think about it too much. ( )