Brian Jacques Redwall is now available in a graphic novel format. The story was adapted by Stuart Moore with beautiful black and white illustrations by Bret Blevins. Having never read the Redwall books, this was an opportunity for me to be introduced to the popular series. I fell in love with the character of Matthias at the beginning when he was whistling a tune and stumbled, dropping his basket of apples. I enjoyed seeing him change from a slightly clumsy little mouse into a true warrior. When Redwall Abbey is under attack by Cluny the terrible rat, Matthias begins a journey to retrieve the sword of the great warrior, Martin. A motley crew of woodland animals aids Matthias on his quest and everyone worked together to save Redwall.
Stand Tall
By Siena Siegel
by Joan Bauer
Putnam, 2002, 182 pgs Realistic Fiction
Tree is 12 years old and over 6 feet tall. That would be great if he were a basketball player, but he is not. Dealing with his unusual size is not Tree's only challenge. Tree's parents have recently gone through a divorce, and his grandfather has had his leg amputated as the result of an old Vietnam War injury. The strength of this book is the characterizations. All of the main characters are dimensional and sympathetic. Bauer sets the characters in real and often funny family situations. Best of all is the character of Tree. He is boy with a heart to match his stature. This is a great book for boys or girls ages 9-12, as a read aloud or for individual reading. This book could also be a good Rx book for children whose families are going through divorce, or for anyone who feels like they don't fit in.
Comments