List of Redwall Books
Redwall books are a beloved series of fantasy novels written by Brian Jacques that have captivated readers of all ages for decades. Set in the fictional world of Redwall Abbey and its surrounding areas, these books feature anthropomorphic animals engaged in adventurous, humorous, and often heroic tales. The series is renowned for its rich storytelling, vivid characters, and detailed world-building. If you're a fan or new to the series, this comprehensive list will guide you through all the books in the Redwall universe, organized chronologically and by series order.
Overview of the Redwall Series
The Redwall series began with the publication of "Redwall" in 1986 and has since expanded to include over twenty novels, as well as supplementary works such as short stories and picture books. The series is divided into different story arcs and standalone novels, each contributing to the expansive lore of Redwall and its inhabitants.
Chronological Order of Redwall Books
For those interested in reading the series in chronological order based on the timeline within the universe, here is a list of the books arranged accordingly:
- Rakkety Tam (2014)
- High Rhulain (2005)
- Eulalia! (2007) – Short story prequel
- Mattimeo (1988)
- Mariel of Redwall (1991)
- Martin the Warrior (1993)
- The Legend of Luke (2001) – Short story
- Lord Brocktree (2000)
- The Bellmaker (1994)
- Salamandastron (1992)
- The Long Patrol (1997)
- Outcast of Redwall (1995)
- The Pearls of Lutra (1996)
- Mossflower (1988)
- Redwall (1986)
- Mattimeo (1988)
> Note: Some books, such as "Eulalia!" and "The Legend of Luke," are short stories or prequels that provide additional background but are often read alongside the main novels.
Series Chronology and Groupings
The Redwall series can be grouped into different chronological arcs, often following the history of Redwall Abbey and its neighboring regions. Here’s a breakdown of the major story arcs:
1. The Early History and Legends
- Martin the Warrior: A foundational story about the legendary hero Martin and the founding of Redwall Abbey.
- The Legend of Luke: A short story about the legendary figure Luke.
2. The Founding and Expansion of Redwall
- Mossflower: Chronicles the origins of Redwall Abbey and its early heroes.
- Mattimeo: Set during the early years of Redwall's history.
3. The Age of Conflict and Raiders
- The Bellmaker
- Outcast of Redwall
- Salamandastron
- The Long Patrol
- Lord Brocktree
- Rakkety Tam
4. The Modern Era and New Adventures
- High Rhulain
- Eulalia!
Standalone and Notable Redwall Books
While most of the books are interconnected through a shared history, some novels are standalone stories that explore different characters and regions within the Redwall universe. Here are some notable titles:
- Redwall: The original novel that introduces the community of Redwall Abbey and its inhabitants.
- Mossflower: Often considered the first chronologically, detailing the founding of the abbey.
- Mattimeo: Follows the adventures of Matthias and the young ones of Redwall.
- The Legend of Luke: Details the legendary hero Luke’s deeds.
- High Rhulain: Focuses on the adventures of Tansy, a wildcat destined for leadership.
- Rakkety Tam: Follows the squirrel Rakkety Tam as he faces new threats.
Additional Redwall Books and Related Works
Beyond the main novels, Brian Jacques authored several short stories, picture books, and spin-offs that enrich the Redwall universe:
Short Stories and Novellas
- The Legend of Luke: Provides background on Luke the Warrior.
- Eulalia!: A humorous short story set in the Redwall world.
Picture Books and Spin-offs
- Redwall: A Graphic Novel: An illustrated adaptation of the original story.
- Redwall Tales: Collections of short stories and tales from the series.
Reading the Redwall Series
For newcomers, it’s often recommended to start with the first published book, Redwall (1986), which introduces the main characters and setting. From there, readers can choose to follow the chronological order or explore the stories based on their interests in specific characters or regions.
Fans of the series often enjoy reading the books in order of publication as well, as this allows them to experience the development of Brian Jacques’s storytelling style and the expansion of the universe over time.
Conclusion
The list of Redwall books is extensive and offers a rich tapestry of stories set in a vivid, animal-centric fantasy world. Whether you are interested in the origins of Redwall Abbey, epic battles against villains, or tales of heroism and friendship, the series provides a wide array of adventures. With over twenty novels, numerous short stories, and supplementary works, there’s plenty to explore for longtime fans and newcomers alike. Dive into the series and discover the timeless charm of Redwall and its unforgettable characters.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the complete list of Redwall books in order of publication?
The Redwall series by Brian Jacques includes the following books in order of publication: Redwall (1986), Mossflower (1988), Mattimeo (1989), Mariel of Redwall (1991), Salamandastron (1992), Martin the Warrior (1993), The Pearls of Lutra (1996), The Long Patrol (1997), Marlfox (1998), Redwall Legend (1999), The Legend of Luke (2000), Lord Brocktree (2000), The Taggerung (2001), Triss (2002), Loamhedge (2005), Rakkety Tam (2006), The Sable Queen (2007), Doomwyte (2008), The Rogue Crew (2009), The Big Book of Redwall (2010), The Redwall Bedtime Story Book (2012), The Redwall Cookbook (2013), The Redwall Friend (2015).
Are there any new Redwall books announced or upcoming?
As of October 2023, no official announcements have been made regarding new Redwall books. Fans often check the official Redwall website or publisher updates for the latest news.
Which Redwall book is considered the first in the series?
Redwall, published in 1986, is the first book in the Redwall series and introduces the beloved Redwall Abbey setting.
Can I read the Redwall books out of order?
While the series can be enjoyed out of order, it's recommended to read them in publication order to follow the story development and character introductions more naturally.
Are there any spin-off or related Redwall books?
Yes, there are additional books such as 'The Redwall Bedtime Story Book' and 'The Redwall Cookbook' that expand on the series' universe with stories, recipes, and activities for fans.
Which Redwall book features the character Martin the Warrior?
Martin the Warrior appears prominently in the novel 'Martin the Warrior' (1993) and is a central figure in the series' lore.
Are there audiobooks or adaptations of the Redwall series?
Yes, many Redwall books are available as audiobooks narrated by various voice actors, and some have been adapted into plays and animated works.
What is the main theme of the Redwall series?
The series primarily explores themes of heroism, friendship, bravery, and good versus evil set in a richly detailed anthropomorphic animal world.
Where can I find a comprehensive list of Redwall books online?
You can find a complete list of Redwall books on the official Redwall website, major book retailer sites, or dedicated fan pages and wikis.
