The Complete Guide to Star Wars Books: Canon and Legends
Star Wars enthusiasts often find themselves overwhelmed by choices when it comes to exploring the vast universe beyond the movies. The official canon and the extensive Legends series both offer unique stories and insights. In this guide, we will explore the latest canon books, delve into some must-read Legends titles, and recommend a selection of reads for deeper immersion into the Star Wars saga.
Canon Books Post-2014
The Star Wars canon has undergone significant changes over the years. Currently, the official canon includes books published under Canon, which have been written since 2014. These are directly connected to the on-screen content of the films and ongoing animated series. Here are a few must-read titles from this period:
Thrawn Trilogy by Timothy Zahn
Thrawn, Thrawn: Alliances, and Thrawn: Treason follow the exploits of Grand Admiral Thrawn, a key villain from Star Wars: Rebels. These books combine military strategy and political intrigue, making them a favorite among fans. Thrawn: Published in 2017, this book sets the stage for Thrawn's return to the galaxy. Thrawn: Alliances: Released in 2018, it delves into Thrawn's relationships and strategic alliances. Thrawn: Treason: Published in 2019, it explores Thrawn's downfall and the consequences of his actions.
Star Wars: Lost Stars by Claudia Gray
Star Wars: Lost Stars is a romance novel set during the events of the original trilogy. It provides a compelling love story that adds depth to the classic characters.
Star Wars: Bloodline by Claudia Gray
Star Wars: Bloodline focuses on Leia’s political journey and the political landscape that predated the arrival of Starkiller Base. It offers a rare glimpse into the political intrigue of the rebellion.
Star Wars: Master and Apprentice by Claudia Gray
The trilogy, including Star Wars: The Ruins of?actionMSTORY, Star Wars: The Jedi’s Path, and Star Wars: Master and Apprentice, explores the relationship between Obi-Wan and Qui-Gon Jinn, providing a rich backstory and new perspectives on their relationship.
Star Wars: Light of the Jedi by Charles Soule
This is the first book in the High Republic series, set 200 years before the prequels. It introduces a new, multi-author initiative that explores the High Republic era, including titles like The Rising Storm and The Fallen Star by Cavan Scott and Claudia Gray, respectively.
Legends Books
Legends books are not considered canon but still offer a wealth of information and entertainment. Some notable titles include:
Thrawn Trilogy by Timothy Zahn
The Thrawn trilogy, including Heir to the Empire, Dark Force Rising, and The Last Command, provide a fantastic follow-up to the original trilogy, expanding on the adventures of Grand Admiral Thrawn.
Darth Plagueis by James Luceno
This book delves into the story of Darth Plagueis, a character from the Star Wars: Episode I - The Phantom Menace video game. It explores the life and fall of one of the Sith's most influential members.
Shadows of the Empire by Steve Perry
Shadows of the Empire provides a detailed account of the events between Return of the Jedi and The Phantom Menace, including a major space battle and an outlaw's alliance with Jabba the Hutt.
Recommendations
If you're looking to widen your knowledge of Star Wars canon books, here are some recommendations:
Tarkin
A fantastic story about Moff Tarkin, set approximately 14 years before the first movie, A New Hope, and expanding on his rise through the ranks.
Lost Stars
A YA love story set across a few years with the known events in the background, thought to be popular among fans of the genre if you enjoyed the background stories in the original trilogy.
Smuggler’s Run
This is a Han Solo story that isn't essential but provides a quick and enjoyable read. It’s a great way to dip into the Han Solo universe if you're a fan of his character.
The Weapon of the Jedi
A Luke Skywalker story, much like Smuggler’s Run.
Moving Target
A Leia story, similar to the other previous works, providing insight into her character and personal growth.
Aftermath
This is a great standalone story with a few movie characters, including Wedge Antilles and Snap Wexley, set not long after A New Hope. Its sequel, Life Debt, was released in 2016, while the third installment, Empire’s End, is set to be released in 2017, completing a compelling arc.
Bloodline
An excellent Leia-centric story set a few years before The Force Awakens. It’s a must-read for fans of the character, offering a deeper insight into her history.
Before the Awakening
This includes three short stories about Poe Dameron, Finn, and Rey. While not necessary for the main storyline, these stories offer a glimpse into the development of these characters, such as Rey learning to fly and Poe joining the resistance.
Marvel Comics
For those who prefer comics, Marvel has several excellent offerings, including:
Leia
A series featuring Princess Leia and the challenges she faces in the lead-up to the events of The Force Awakens.
Lando
Focuses on Lando Calrissian, his journey, and his alignment with the Resistance.
Shattered Empire
A mini-series that expands on the events of Return of the Jedi and The Force Awakens, providing more context and background for these pivotal moments.
Star Wars
The main Star Wars comics series, providing numerous adventures and new storylines.
Darth Vader
Explores the Sith Lord's evolution and the conflicts he faces.
Han Solo and Poe Dameron
Mini-series featuring the development of characters from the original trilogy and the new era, respectively.
Obi-Wan and Anakin
Explores the relationship between the two iconic characters, providing new perspectives and insights.
C3PO and Chewbacca: Phantom Limb
While not necessary for understanding the main storyline, these stories offer additional lore and characters.
In conclusion, the Star Wars universe is vast and rich, with both canon and Legends books offering unique stories and perspectives. Whether you're looking for in-depth exploration of existing characters or new adventures, these resources will provide you with a deeper understanding and appreciation of the Star Wars saga.