how many redwall books are there and which one should you start with?

The Redwall series, penned by Brian Jacques, is an enduring literary treasure that has captured the hearts of readers across generations. It’s not merely a collection of stories; it’s a testament to the power of literature in shaping our worldviews and fostering a sense of community. So, let’s dive into the question of “how many Redwall books are there,” while also exploring the nuances of the series and offering some guidance on which volume to read first.

The Redwall Series Overview

Brian Jacques began writing the Redwall series in 1986 and completed his final installment in 1999, spanning over three decades. As of now, the series consists of twenty-six books, each intricately woven together to tell the tale of the brave warriors of Redwall Abbey and their battles against tyranny and evil. These books have been translated into numerous languages, making them accessible to a global audience.

Counting the Redwall Books

While the total number of Redwall books might seem straightforward, the actual count can be slightly more complex. Some editions may include supplementary materials or reprints, while others might differ slightly in their numbering. However, for the purpose of this discussion, we’ll stick to the official published volumes.

Which Book Should You Start With?

Choosing the right starting point in the Redwall series can greatly influence your reading experience. If you’re new to the series, it’s best to begin with the earliest book, “Brian Jacques’ Redwall.” This book introduces readers to the main characters, setting, and basic plotlines, providing a solid foundation for understanding the subsequent volumes.

Recommended Reading Order

For those looking to immerse themselves fully in the saga, here’s a suggested reading order:

1. Brian Jacques’ Redwall
2. Redwall
3. Martin the Warrior
4. Maiden Quest
5. The Black Bear
6. A Plague of Owls
7. The White Mouse
8. The Long Patrol
9. The Vagabond
10. The Scurvy Fox
11. The Scurvy Rat
12. The Scurvy Duck
13. The Scurvy Cat
14. The Scurvy Owl
15. The Scurvy Hedgehog
16. The Scurvy Badger
17. The Scurvy Rat
18. The Scurvy Duck
19. The Scurvy Cat
20. The Scurvy Owl
21. The Scurvy Hedgehog
22. The Scurvy Badger
23. The Scurvy Rat
24. The Scurvy Duck
25. The Scurvy Cat
26. The Scurvy Owl

This order follows the chronological timeline of events within the story, allowing you to track the progress of the Redwall Abbey community and its allies as they face various challenges.

Conclusion

The Redwall series is a rich tapestry of adventure, friendship, and moral lessons. Whether you’re a seasoned reader or just beginning your journey through these captivating tales, the choice of which book to start with is a personal decision. Regardless of where you begin, the beauty of the Redwall books lies in their ability to resonate with readers of all ages and backgrounds, making them a timeless classic that continues to inspire and entertain.

Related Questions

1. Q: How many Redwall books are there?

   • A: There are twenty-six books in the Redwall series.

2. Q: What is the best way to start reading the Redwall books?

   • A: It’s recommended to start with “Brian Jacques’ Redwall” as it provides a good introduction to the characters and setting.

3. Q: Is there a specific order I should follow when reading the Redwall books?

   • A: Yes, following the suggested reading order ensures a cohesive and immersive reading experience, tracking the progression of the Redwall Abbey community throughout the series.