WHYY for Kids

Return to Redwall
Edited by Abigail Esten

Redwall Young viewers can soon expect more adventures in the mythical, medieval land of Redwall, a place populated by woodland creatures that embody the qualities of humor, companionship and courage.

The new Redwall series, airing Saturdays at 8:30 a.m. on WHYY TV12 beginning May 4, follows the adventures of Martin the Warrior and is filled with unexpected twists and turns as Martin learns to overcome great odds and perform noble deeds while growing into a young adult.

Martin the Warrior is the most famous of the characters created by Brian Jacques, author of the popular Redwall series of books. When the story begins, young Martin sees his father Luke leave home to fight the pirate oppressors who are pillaging the land. He leaves his sword to his son as a symbol and as a challenge to grow, learn and protect the weak.

But Martin is soon captured by the evil pirate Badrang, and so his journey into resourcefulness, determination and noble mousehood begins. Enslaved with others to build Badrang's fortress, Martin defends an old squirrel and becomes a friend of his son, Felldoh. They free themselves and eventually raise an army, hoping to return and defeat Badrang and rescue the remaining slaves.

With the help of his friends, the inexperienced mouse becomes Martin the Warrior and fulfills his promise to his father to pass on a sword that symbolizes freedom, honor and peace.

The new Redwall series airs Saturdays at 8:30 a.m. beginning May 4 on WHYY TV12.

Helping children find their voice WHYY is hosting the Family Focus workshop "Raising Kids Bilingually" on Wednesday, April 24 at 7 p.m. in the WHYY Technology Center, 150 N. 6th St in Philadelphia.

Presented by Dr. Alvino Fantini, professor at the School for International Training and the author of Language Acquisition of a Bilingual Child, this free workshop for parents and caregivers of preschool children explores the development, use and effects of bilingual behavior, especially in raising bilingual children. A question-and-answer session and refreshments will follow the workshop. Call (215) 351-0511 for reservations.