Outcast of Redwall (Redwall #8) Book

I appreciated this book's clear departure from Jacques' typical formulaic Redwall plot, and appreciated even more its foray into moral complexity. This was the first (perhaps it remained the only?) Redwall book which explored the possibility that the "evil" predatory/scavenger species of Redwall's sentient animal world were capable of reform, growth, and transformation. That perhaps their inclination toward vile behavior owed much more to their upbringing within abusive, marauding cultures, or even prejudicial cultures, than it did to their genes.

Moral complexity was badly wanted in Redwall stories up till this point. It is often lacking in high-adventure stories in general, even from books written for older audiences. Bravo to Jacques for taking it on in a middle-grade fantasy novel, and for doing a profoundly good job. Emotions run deep in this story, as characters must decide repeatedly what price is worth paying for true friendship, and work out how to recognize good and evil in their companions. As a child, I cried reading this book.

All three times.