Reviews and Comments

I saw the movie first. And wanting more in that world. And no sequel in sight, I decided to start up the series. And come out with no clear winner. One has strengths over the other.

In both, they build a world that is like no other I have seen. After an apocalypse or two, cities became structures that roll on treads. And hunt other cities. That is how they gain resources. The book really explores this concept of "municipal Darwinism". But human-wise, it looks at the story of 3 young adults. Two stewing in the privilege of a big city, and discovering the thorns it hides. And one that long knew about them, but only cares about revenge.

I will say, Shrike's story is better done in the movie. But the book and movie has somewhat different endings. Neither the better, imo. One is more kind, the other more brutal. I was better able to emotionally connect with the characters in the movie. But that improved in the book midway thru.

I very much enjoyed this book. And look forward to more in the series.

A problem alot of science books make is relying on jargon. That problem is maybe the jargon catches on in common parlance. Maybe is dropped like the heavy term it is. Maybe it is only adopted by people wanting to sound smart. But does it reach well to people who need it?

This book does a great job of not relying on jargon. And focuses on getting its -ideas- across. And with alot of careful everyday language. But still invites us to the research on this field. And gives good examples. Encouraging, and light hearted.

Some of my fav parts are were it tells you not to feel bad about having Social Anxiety. How in fact it really is a natural function, just one that has gotten too powerful. That we should not try to cure it or eliminate it. Cause it keeps us from embarrassing ourselves, or hurting others. It made the condition feel more natural. Even manageable. Which I feel the book has given me insight needed to start really confronting it.

I really recommend this book if you feel you are affected by Social Anxiety. Or even if you dont, and want to understand the condition better. It's a great read in general, too.

Mossflower is a well told story. Tons of characters, but all fun ones. Even a genuinely disturbing villain. You even feel bad for her lackeys, tho they are truly evil too.

Like with Redwall, there are full deaths in this. So if you or your little one are not comfortable with that, that is something to consider. But if you and your young readers can handle that, you're in for a deep and complex story.

I listened to the full cast audiobook by the BBC. And the sound mixing can be rough. BUT, it is full of really great performers doing excellent voice work.

If you read Redwall, you are getting more of this world, as good as Redwall. You are getting some of Martin's story. But not all. You are getting the history of Mossflower Wood. But not much of Redwall. But no matter what, you are getting a good Brian Jacques book.