May the fourth be with you
4th May 2023
Calling all Star Wars fans and book lovers!
Amongst our colleagues at Browns Books we have a range of Star Wars fans, ranging from lovers of just the films, to team members who also rate the spin-offs and additional series around this ever-growing franchise, all the way up to those who have a lifelong dedication, and who live and breathe everything Star Wars. To not drone on to those of you who just want to learn more around the classic films we have started this blog off with an introduction to the titles and why we would recommend them, and then for those who are intrigued as to how Star Wars has been such a big impact on one of our colleagues, keep reading to the bottom for his own account!
If you are a fan of Star Wars, you probably know all about the movies and TV series, but did you know that there is a whole universe of Star Wars books waiting to be explored? Whether you’re a fan of the original trilogy, the prequels, or the latest movies the Star Wars books offer something extra for everyone.
Here are some of the reasons why I think Star Wars books are a must-read for any fan:
1. They explore the Star Wars universe in greater depth
While the movies offer a glimpse into the galaxy far, far away, the Star Wars books take readers on a deeper dive. They explore the histories of different planets, species, and characters, and often provide more context for events that are only briefly mentioned in the movies. You’ll get to see more of your favourite characters, and even discover new ones.
2. They introduce new stories and characters
One of the best things about the Star Wars books is that we get to meet more of the characters that we may only hear about on our screens. Whether it’s a new group of Jedi students or a band of bounty hunters, the Star Wars books expand the universe in exciting ways. You’ll get to see how the events of the movies impact other parts of the galaxy, and how different characters are affected by those events.
3. They offer a different perspective on familiar events
The Star Wars books will often retell familiar events that we see in the movies but through a different perspective. For example, the novel Lost Stars tells the story of two young lovers who find themselves on opposite sides of the Galactic Civil War. By seeing the events of the movies from their point of view, readers get a better understanding of the impact of the war on ordinary citizens.
4. They are a great way to pass the time between movies
Let’s face it, waiting for the next Star Wars movie or series can be tough. But luckily there are plenty of Star Wars books to keep you occupied in the meantime. You can revisit your favourite characters and stories or discover new ones that you may not have known about before. Plus, reading is a great way to escape into another world and forget about the reality of your own for a little while.
5. They inspire creativity and imagination
The books are a great source for aspiring writers and artists. They offer a wealth of characters, worlds, and stories to draw from, and can help spark your imagination. Who knows, reading a Star Wars book might just inspire you to write your own fan fiction or create your own artwork.
So, if you are a Star Wars fan, like me with my permanent tribute to Star Wars with my rebellion tattoo, who hasn’t yet explored the books, what are you waiting for?
Please see below some of our most popular fictional titles based on this ever-expanding empire but note that this list is not exhaustive and there are many other Star Wars novels and comics available for fans to enjoy!
Star Wars: Heir to the Empire
Zahn, Timothy
Paperback / softback
#1 NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER In this essential Star Wars Legends novel-the first ever to take place after the events of the original trilogy-Grand Admiral Thrawn makes his debut on the galactic stage. Five years ago, the Rebel Alliance destroyed the Death Star, defeated Darth Vader and the Emperor, and drove the remnants of the old Imperial Starfleet to a distant corner of the galaxy. Princess Leia and Han Solo are married and expecting twins. And Luke Skywalker has become the first in a long-awaited line of Jedi Knights. But thousands of light-years away, the last of the Emperor's warlords, Grand Admiral Thrawn, has taken command of the shattered Imperial fleet, readied it for war, and pointed it at the fragile heart of the New Republic. For this dark warrior has made a vital discovery that could destroy everything the courageous men and women of the Rebel Alliance fought so hard to build.
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Star Wars: Tarkin
Luceno, James
Paperback / softback
'Of power, I could tell you much. One must seize the moment, and strike.' Grand Moff Wilhuff TarkinHe's the scion of an honourable and revered family. A dedicated soldier and distinguished legislator. Loyal proponent of the Republic and trusted ally of the Jedi Order. Groomed by the ruthless politician and Sith Lord who would be Emperor, Governor Wilhuff Tarkin rises through the Imperial ranks, enforcing his authority ever more mercilessly...and zealously pursuing his destiny as the architect of absolute dominion. Rule through the fear of force rather than force itself, he advises the Emperor. Under Tarkin's guidance, an ultimate weapon of unparalleled destruction moves ever closer to becoming a terrifying reality. When the so-called Death Star is completed, Tarkin is confident that the galaxy's lingering pockets of Separatist rebellion will be brought to heel - by intimidation or annihilation. Until then, insurgency remains a genuine threat. Escalating guerrilla attacks by resistance forces and new-found evidence of a growing Separatist conspiracy are an immediate danger the Empire must meet with swift and brutal action. And to bring down a band of elusive freedom fighters, the Emperor turns to his most formidable agents: Darth Vader, the fearsome new Sith enforcer as remorseless as he is mysterious, and Tarkin - whose tactical cunning and cold-blooded efficiency will pave the way for the Empire's supremacy...and its enemies' extinction.
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Star Wars: Bloodline
Gray, Claudia
Paperback / softback
The Sunday Times BestsellerWITNESS THE BIRTH OF THE RESISTANCEWhen the Rebellion defeated the Empire in the skies above Endor, Leia Organa believed it was the beginning to a lasting peace. But after decades of vicious infighting and partisan gridlock in the New Republic Senate, that hope seems like a distant memory. Now a respected senator, Leia must grapple with the dangers that threaten to cripple the fledgling democracy—from both within and without. Underworld kingpins, treacherous politicians, and Imperial loyalists are sowing chaos in the galaxy. Desperate to take action, senators are calling for the election of a First Senator. It is their hope that this influential post will bring strong leadership to a divided galaxy. As the daughter of Darth Vader, Leia faces with distrust the prospect of any one person holding such a powerful position—even when supporters suggest Leia herself for the job. But a new enemy may make this path Leia’s only option. For at the edges of the galaxy, a mysterious threat is growing…
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Star Wars: Aftermath
Wendig, Chuck
Paperback / softback
Journey to Star Wars: The Force AwakensThe second Death Star has been destroyed, the Emperor killed, and Darth Vader struck down. Devastating blows against the Empire, and major victories for the Rebel Alliance. But the battle for freedom is far from over. As the Empire reels from its critical defeats at the Battle of Endor, the Rebel Alliance—now a fledgling New Republic—presses its advantage by hunting down the enemy’s scattered forces before they can regroup and retaliate. But above the remote planet Akiva, an ominous show of the enemy’s strength is unfolding. Out on a lone reconnaissance mission, pilot Wedge Antilles watches Imperial Star Destroyers gather like birds of prey circling for a kill, but he’s taken captive before he can report back to the New Republic leaders. Meanwhile, on the planet’s surface, former rebel fighter Norra Wexley has returned to her native world—war weary, ready to reunite with her estranged son, and eager to build a new life in some distant place. But when Norra intercepts Wedge Antilles’s urgent distress call, she realizes her time as a freedom fighter is not yet over. What she doesn’t know is just how close the enemy is—or how decisive and dangerous her new mission will be. Determined to preserve the Empire’s power, the surviving Imperial elite are converging on Akiva for a top-secret emergency summit—to consolidate their forces and rally for a counterstrike. But they haven’t reckoned on Norra and her newfound allies—her technical-genius son, a Zabrak bounty hunter, and a reprobate Imperial defector—who are prepared to do whatever they must to end the Empire’s oppressive reign once and for all.
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Star Wars: Thrawn
Zahn, Timothy
Paperback / softback
THE SUNDAY TIMES BESTSELLERIn this definitive novel, readers will follow Thrawn’s rise to power—uncovering the events that created one of the most iconic villains in Star Wars history. One of the most cunning and ruthless warriors in the history of the Galactic Empire, Grand Admiral Thrawn is also one of the most captivating characters in the Star Wars universe, from his introduction in bestselling author Timothy Zahn’s classic Heir to the Empire, through his continuing adventures in Dark Force Rising, The Last Command, and beyond. But Thrawn’s origins and the story of his rise in the Imperial ranks have remained mysterious. Now, in Star Wars: Thrawn, Timothy Zahn chronicles the fateful events that launched the blue-skinned, red-eyed master of military strategy and lethal warfare into the highest realms of power—and infamy. After Thrawn is rescued from exile by Imperial soldiers, his deadly ingenuity and keen tactical abilities swiftly capture the attention of Emperor Palpatine. And just as quickly, Thrawn proves to be as indispensable to the Empire as he is ambitious; as devoted as its most loyal servant, Anakin Skywalker; and a brilliant warrior never to be underestimated. On missions to rout smugglers, snare spies, and defeat pirates, he triumphs time and again—even as his renegade methods infuriate superiors while inspiring ever greater admiration from the Empire. As one promotion follows another in his rapid ascension to greater power, he schools his trusted aide, ensign Eli Vanto, in the arts of combat, leadership, and the secrets of claiming victory. But even though Thrawn dominates the battlefield, he has much to learn in the arena of politics where ruthless administrator Arihnda Pryce holds the power to be a potent ally or a brutal enemy. All these lessons will be put to the ultimate test when Thrawn rises to admiral—and must pit all the knowledge, instincts, and battle forces at his command against an insurgent uprising that threatens not only innocent lives but also the Empire’s grip on the galaxy—and his own carefully laid plans for future ascendency.
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Star Wars: Darth Maul - Son Of Dathomir
Barlow, Jeremy
Paperback / softback
Getting cut in half by Obi-Wan Kenobi and being rejected by his former Sith Master Darth Sidious isn't going to defeat Darth Maul. In fact, it only makes him mad enough to take on the galaxy - with an army of Mandalorians! After forming the Shadow Collective - a criminal organization composed of the Hutts, Black Sun, the Mandalorians, and the fearsome Nightbrothers - Maul wages war against Darth Sidious and his generals, Count Dooku and General Grievous! Adapted from unproduced screenplays for Season 6 of The Clone Wars television show, this is the final chapter planned for Darth Maul' saga.
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Star Wars: The Mandalorian Vol. 1 - Season One, Part One
Barnes, Rodney
Paperback / softback
Din Djarin, the armoured bounty hunter better known as The Mandalorian, has been a smash-hit on Disney+ for two incredible seasons. Now, at last, the Mandalorian arrives on the comics page - in the first half of an action-packed adaptation of the show's first season! The bounty hunter has agreed to track down a target for a mysterious ex-Imperial client who offers to pay in Beskar, a rare metal revered by Mandalorians. But when Djarin locates the target the adorable green toddler known only as The Child - all bets are off! Will Djarin follow his Mandalorian code and turn over the Child? And if he doesn't, what will the consequences be? Prepare for a gritty adventure through the Star Wars universe featuring mercenaries, Blurrgs, mudhorns and more! This is the way!
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Star Wars: Dark Disciple
Golden, Christie
Paperback / softback
When the Jedi decide to target Count Dooku-Darth Tryanus- himself, they turn to his ex-apprentice, Asajj Ventress, for help in getting close to the slippery Sith Lord. But when unexpected sparks fly between Ventress and Quinlan Vos, the unorthodox Jedi sent to work with her, the mission becomes a web of betrayal, alliances, secrets, and dark plotting that might just be the undoing of both Jedi and Sith - and everything in between!
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Star Wars X-Wings Series - Rogue Squadron
Stackpole, Michael A
Paperback / softback
In this essential Star Wars Legends novel, discover the legacy of Rogue Squadron and its fabled pilots, who became a symbol of hope throughout the galaxy. They are sleek, swift, and deadly. They are the X-wing fighters. And as the struggle rages across the vastness of space, the fearless men and women who pilot them risk both their lives and their machines. Their mission: to defend the Rebel Alliance against a still-powerful and battle-hardened Imperial foe in a last-ditch effort to control the stars!Its very name strikes fear into enemy hearts. So when Rebel hero Wedge Antilles rebuilds the legendary Rogue Squadron, he seeks out only the best-the most skilled and most daring X-wing pilots. Through arduous training and dangerous missions, he weeds out the weak from the strong, assembling a group of hard-bitten warriors willing to fight, ready to die. Antilles knows the grim truth: Even with the best X-wing jockeys in the galaxy, many will not survive their near-suicidal missions. But when Rogue Squadron is ordered to assist in the assault on the heavily fortified Imperial stronghold of Blackmoon, even the bravest must wonder if any at all will survive. . .
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Star Wars: Lords of the Sith
Kemp, Paul S.
Paperback / softback
When the Emperor and his notorious apprentice, Darth Vader, find themselves stranded in the middle of insurgent action on an inhospitable planet, they must rely on each other, the Force, and their own ruthlessness to prevail. “It appears things are as you suspected, Lord Vader. We are indeed hunted.”Anakin Skywalker, Jedi Knight, is just a memory. Darth Vader, newly anointed Sith Lord, is ascendant. The Emperor’s chosen apprentice has swiftly proven his loyalty to the dark side. Still, the history of the Sith Order is one of duplicity, betrayal, and acolytes violently usurping their Masters—and the truest measure of Vader’s allegiance has yet to be taken. Until now. On Ryloth, a planet crucial to the growing Empire as a source of slave labor and the narcotic known as “spice,” an aggressive resistance movement has arisen, led by Cham Syndulla, an idealistic freedom fighter, and Isval, a vengeful former slave. But Emperor Palpatine means to control the embattled world and its precious resources—by political power or firepower—and he will be neither intimidated nor denied. Accompanied by his merciless disciple, Darth Vader, he sets out on a rare personal mission to ensure his will is done. For Syndulla and Isval, it’s the opportunity to strike at the very heart of the ruthless dictatorship sweeping the galaxy. And for the Emperor and Darth Vader, Ryloth becomes more than just a matter of putting down an insurrection: When an ambush sends them crashing to the planet’s surface, where inhospitable terrain and an army of resistance fighters await them, they will find their relationship tested as never before. With only their lightsabers, the dark side of the Force, and each other to depend on, the two Sith must decide if the brutal bond they share will make them victorious allies or lethal adversaries.
More DetailsNow that we have given you a brief tour into the world of Star Wars books, we can move on to the best part about this blog which is the real account of how this immense world has impacted the life of our very own Jedi Master AKA our Marketing Manager…
In a Galaxy far far away…
Hello there!
My love and passion for Star Wars started in the early 90’s after watching the original trilogy. I’d always had a fascination with space and spaceships, so this was a natural progression for me into a universe filled with wonder and incredible stories. My passion grew even further in the mid 90’s when a company called LucasArts started making video games for PC, notably games like X-Wing, TIE Fighter and X-Wing Alliance which gave gamers the chance to actually fly one of these incredible looking machines from Star Wars. From here I was completely hooked.
After nearly 8 years of playing Star Wars games and reading Star Wars novels like Rogue Squadron: Star Wars Legends, Razors Edge or one of the numerous New Jedi Order books, (that are all now classed as Star Wars Legends and no longer part of the Star Wars Canon), I started playing a Star Wars MMO (Massively Multiplayer Online) game called Star Wars Galaxies.
Star Wars Galaxies is where I met a lot of people who, like me had a passion for Star Wars and who spent hours in the mystical, magical and futuristic world. In truth I lost most of my teenage years to the game, but I still wouldn’t change those years for anything. I’m always proud to say that I was one of the first Jedi on our European server. For a 15-year-old who loved Star Wars, Galaxies was so immersive and full of like-minded people who lived, loved, and breathed everything Star Wars.
Some years passed after my phase with Galaxies, I then decided to get an education and go to university to concentrate more on my music career, which paused my love of Star Wars for a few years.
Fast forward to 2011 and a games company called BioWare, famous for the Mass Effect series and KOTOR series, released a new Star Wars MMO called The Old Republic. Based on the WoW (World of Warcraft) framework, this is where I renewed my love for Star Wars and gaming and went from being an avid fan of the universe to a walking, talking Star Wars encyclopaedia.
Star Wars: The Old Republic changed my life in ways I cannot even describe. I worked my way up to run a very popular guild (or clan) in which every other night we would get together online and complete raids. I made new lifelong friends from all over the world in the guild, to name a few of the players that have really stayed with me we have; Drakken – a chap from South Shields who had a huge passion for anything Star Wars, Nami-D – a Swedish nutter who never stopped laughing, SledgeHammer & Biggy – two Serbian battle-masters who could never understand my local slang, and of course I can’t forget Silly-am – best described as a wide lad from Newcastle who used to fall asleep on comms nearly every night tormenting the other 15-30 online players with his snoring!
The game also expanded my love for the old Star Wars stories based around Darth Revan, who was a character in the expanded universe that I adored among a host of other characters. This is where I first learnt the history and lore about the Mandalorians as a warrior race who were at war with the Jedi and the subsequent stories which are now being shown via the new and very popular TV series on Disney+. I kind of feel that because I learned so much from Star Wars: The Old Republic, I have a head start on most of my friends and colleagues on the new TV series.
Since leaving the world of Star Wars: The Old Republic behind and having to become a fully-fledged adult with a fantastic job at Browns Books, that I have now held for 17 years, and family, my gaming nights (and days!) are very much behind me but my passion for Star Wars is not. In my spare time I 3D print armour packs and helmets that I try and wear, I have multiple costumes and collect Star Wars Lego - on my last count I had over 93 different LEGO sets (along with far too many other collectibles to mention like lightsabers etc).
I also collect different books based on the Star Wars franchise, with the publisher Dorling Kindersley being my go-to for books on this profound universe. I have a host of books I have collected over the years that include complete reference guides, blueprints, novels, Where’s the Wookie, comics and other rare and much sought after titles like The Book of Sith (wanted because it is no longer printed and is worth over £400!) I am also the proud owner of a signed copy of I am C-3PO: The Inside Story. Three titles that stuck out for me were novels based around the extended universe, now known as Star Wars Legends that I am lucky to have on my shelf as they are very rare to get new from the publishers now:
I would also like to give a special mention to DK publishing for these three fantastic additions to my Star Wars library, with their beautiful covers and inside illustrations and for just how jam packed with interesting facts and information they are:
Star Wars The Force Awakens Incredible Cross-Sections
Fry, Jason
Hardback
See the vehicles of Star Wars: The Force Awakens in unparalleled detail with this newest addition to the Star Wars Incredible Cross-Sections series. Twelve breathtaking artworks bring the new craft to life, showing all of the weapons, engines, and technology, while engaging text explains each vehicle's backstory and key features. © & TM 2015 LUCASFILM LTD.
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Star Wars The Complete Visual Dictionary New Edition
Hidalgo, Pablo
Hardback
This comprehensive visual dictionary is the perfect Star Wars book for getting to know the galaxy far, far away. Packed with more than 1,500 stunning images, it showcases major and minor characters including Princess Leia and Luke Skywalker, creatures, vehicles, weapons, props, and items of tech in unparalleled detail. Beautiful photography and engaging text written by Star Wars experts examines the finer points of Padmé Amidala's costumes, displays Boba Fett's array of weaponry, studies Darth Vader's armor, and reveals the lesser-known background stories to many of the characters. Find out who Poe Dameron's idol is, discover the tech behind BB-8's rolling motion, and much, much more! Fully updated to include Star Wars The Force Awakens and Star Wars The Last Jedi - this invaluable reference guide incorporates all the latest stories and characters. The definitive companion to the Star Wars movies, Star Wars The Complete Visual Dictionary is a must-buy for the beginner and the die-hard Star Wars fan alike. © & TM 2018 LUCASFILM LTD.
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Star Wars Character Encyclopedia Updated And Expanded Edition
Beecroft, Simon
Hardback
The definitive guide to more than 275 heroes, villains, aliens, and droids of the Star Wars galaxy. The latest edition of this beloved title has been comprehensively updated to include new characters from Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker and both seasons of Star Wars: The Mandalorian. Want to learn more about the Knights of Ren? Curious as to where Padmé Amidala is from? Wonder how tall Grogu is? To learn the answers to these questions and more, look no further than Star Wars: Character Encyclopedia Updated and Expanded Edition. Written by Star Wars experts, the book is full of fun facts and intriguing information that's guaranteed to enthrall fans of all ages. With plenty of lesser-known details, even die-hard fans will learn new facts about iconic characters. © & ™ 2021 Lucasfilm Ltd.
More DetailsIn summary I don’t think my love affair with Star Wars will ever really end, although the older I get the more difficult I’m finding it to keep up with the new material. I’m so very excited to find out what this ever-growing universe has in store for me and the millions of dedicated fans across the world. Between Canon and Legends, and Old Republic and New Republic. There is just so much content out there already. Plus, so many wonderfully crafted stories about light versus dark filled with everlasting love and legacies. I hope you find the one that sparks your interest the most.
May the force be with you, always.
Nic – Marketing Manager (or Schela Darkvayne to his friends)
I hope that this has inspired you to go out and learn more about this vast universe that includes something for everyone and that Nic’s story has brought back childhood memories of your first experiences with Star Wars (it has for me!).
Get in touch and let us know about your experiences we would love to hear them, but for now happy reading!
Jess, Content Selection Team,
together with Nic, Marketing Manager
