The Taggerung (Redwall novel by Brian Jacques)

A 2001 children's fantasy novel by Brian Jacques, the 14th Redwall book. It follows a foundling known as the Taggerung and explores identity, loyalty, and belonging in Jacques' anthropomorphic world.

Overview

The Taggerung is a children's fantasy novel by Brian Jacques, first published in 2001 and listed as the fourteenth book in the Redwall series. Like other entries in the cycle, it uses a richly imagined world of talking animals to tell a tale of adventure, moral choice, and the search for home. The title refers to a figure within the story whose life and loyalties form the core drama.

Setting and characters

The novel is set in the broader Redwall universe, populated by mice, badgers, otters, rats and other anthropomorphic creatures. While Redwall Abbey and its traditions are an important touchstone across the series, individual books concentrate on different communities and journeys. This book centers on a young protagonist whose upbringing and inherited reputation create tension between the values he was raised with and the ethical code he encounters later.

Themes and style

Jacques' work is known for its emphasis on courage, friendship, and the struggle between good and evil. The Taggerung continues these themes, examining identity, belonging and the responsibility that comes with names and titles. Stylistically the novel features vivid sensory description, communal feasts, songs, and clear moral contrasts—hallmarks of the Redwall books that appeal to middle-grade readers.

Structure and notable elements

Adventure-driven plot with journey and rescue motifs.
Clear protagonists and antagonists that illustrate moral choices.
Frequent use of lore, names and cultural rituals unique to the Redwall setting.

Publication and reception

Published in 2001, The Taggerung has been translated into several languages, including French, and reached readers already familiar with Jacques' blend of action and pastoral detail. Fans of the series recognize it for continuing the world-building and delivering the characteristic combination of warmth, peril and rousing conclusion. For more on the author and his work see Brian Jacques resources and for series context consult Redwall series info.