Here at Tor.com we are all very saddened to by the news of Brian Jacques’ recent passing.
The incomparable author of the Redwall series grew up in Liverpool, but with the same pluck as his protagonist Gonff the Mousethief, Jacques left home at 15 to be a merchant seaman and see the world.
Jacques wrote the original Redwall novel for the children of the Royal Wavertree School for the Blind, inviting them—and us—into his wonderful world. He went on to write 21 books in his beloved series, telling the stories of brave Matthias and little Mattimeo, the legendary Martin, Mariel and her trusty Gullwhacker, the stalwart badgers of Salamandastron, and many more.
Brian Jacques was 71.
The very first book signing I ever attended was when Brian Jacques showed up at our local library. As delightful as his books are, they don’t compare to hearing him in person. He was a true story teller, marvellously entertaining, and an all-around real person. The world is a better place for him having been in it.
I’ve loved Redwall Abbey ever since I first read it in junior high school…. His stories touched this young man’s life. He will be missed…
My kids have been reading his books over the last year. My oldest son is on the second to last redwall book. My children are actually tearing up over the news. No one can compare to Brian Jacques! I am sure children all over the world are mourning his loss with us.
My tribute is here. I’m very sorry to hear of his death, but once again, very, very grateful, for the existence of his stories.
Oh, man, that’s terrible. Our family has enjoyed his books and stories for a long time.
I discovered “Redwall” and Brian Jacques work only a couple of years ago. I bought some comics of “Mouseguard” which was compared to Redwall. So the search was on for those tales and I have almost half of those 21 books now. Written for children…….ha, I enjoy them on my 40th too, really enjoyable books.
What a day this is….this morning I read the news that Hardrock/blues guitarist Gary Moore, whose music I really like, died, I commented on some sites about his passing, clicked the link to Tor.com and there’s another death in the news…..sad day.
I always enjoyed both of his series .The bells have tolled a final time may your angel take you gentley to your rest. I’m sure you’ll be the guest of honor of a fine big feast. We’ll miss your stories of swashbuckling adventure, Good versus Evil and lots and lots of food.
Pouring out a 40 of October Nutbrown Ale…
Brian Jacques was a wonderful storyteller and a lovely man. I’m sorry to hear of his death, but I think he made the most of his life.
I grew up reading the Redwall books and they will always have a special place in my heart. Rest in peace, Brian Jacques, and thank you for all the wonderful stories!
Our email address reveals the love my family has for this man and his world. I live in a red brick house, full of dibbuns (I have 11 children) and not a week does by that one of them doesn’t take on the voice of a hare, badger or otter! May he rest in peace!