Redwall

Written by: Brian Jacques

First line: It was the start of the Summer of the Late Rose.

Why you should read this book: This fast-paced hero's journey sees the clumsy little novice mouse, Matthias rise to the challenges as he transforms into the avatar of his hero, Martin the Warrior. The creatures of Mossflower Wood and Redwall Abbey live happy, natural lives until a band of cutthroat rats, led by the vicious, whip-tailed Cluny, set their sights on the mice's abundant stores and protective walls. The mice are set in their ways, but Matthias has a fast mind and a brave heart, and helps lead his people to victory by thinking and acting in innovative ways.

Why you shouldn't read this book: You don't like action, adventure, fighting, plotting, or talking animals.