In this twelfth book of the masterful Redwall epic, storyteller Brian Jacques goes back in time to the days before Redwall, revealing with dramatic poignancy the legend of the first of the magnificent Redwall warriors--Luke, father of Martin.

Joined by Trimp the Hedgehog, Dinny Foremole, and Gonff--the ever-mischievous Prince of Mousethieves--it is that legend Martin hopes to discover when he embarks on a perilous journey to the northland shore, where his father abandoned him as a child. There, within the carcass of a great red ship--broken in half and wedged high up between pillars of stone--he finally uncovers what he has been searching for: the true story of the evil pirate stoat, Vilu Daskar, and the valiant warrior who pursued him relentlessly over the high seas, seeking to destroy Vilu at all costs, even if it meant deserting his only son.

Brian Jacques and his tremendous Redwall books never cease to amaze: this is the 12th book in a series that just gets better and better. This time, the interweaving story of a father and a son is told in three parts, starting with a visit to Redwall Abbey by a young hedgehog maid who, by singing a half-remembered song recounting the adventures of a warrior called Luke, begins to unlock some of the mysteries behind the Abbey's early years.

As deftly executed as all the other Redwall books, The Legend of Luke is a truly magnificent, rampaging, rip-roaring adventure story that gives the heart and mind the kind of aerobic workout normally reserved for a sprint round a playing field. From the very first page the readers know they're in for a treat, and as Jacques skillfully builds his story, cleverly interweaving intricate, imaginative detail with a vast cast of incredible characters who each play a vital role in the unfurling of the tale, there can be no doubt that he is still the true master of his genre.

Excellent as a stand-alone read for anyone new to Redwall, and even better as part of the amazing saga that has captured the imagination of millions since its inception, The Legend of Luke is an absolute must-read for anyone--young or old--who likes their fiction fast and fantastical. This story will certainly leave them breathless for more. --Susan Harrison

Author Jacques reads his latest work with an assured and enthusiastic tone that demonstrates his familiarity with and passion for his subject matter. In this 12th story about the woodland creatures who inhabit and defend Redwall Abbey, listeners are treated to a prequel of sorts. In the early days of Redwall, Martin the warrior leaves the still-growing abbey and travels to the Northland shore where his father, the warrior Luke, had abandoned him as a child. Along the way, Martin and his companions must fight off weasels and other evil vermin. But once Martin reaches his destination, the answers to many of his lifelong questions are answered. He discovers the real reason his father was forced to leave him behind. As always, Jacques peppers his storytelling with humor, sumptuous descriptions and abundant adventure. Some listeners may find that Jacques's heavy Liverpool accent takes a bit of getting used to, but once acclimated, will be captivated by this colorful tale. Ages 9-up.
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