What Order to Read Star Wars Books: A Galactic Journey Through Time and Space

What Order to Read Star Wars Books: A Galactic Journey Through Time and Space

The Star Wars universe is vast, encompassing not just the iconic movies but also a rich tapestry of books, comics, and other media. For fans looking to dive deeper into the lore, the question of “what order to read Star Wars books” is a common one. The answer, however, is not as straightforward as one might hope. The Star Wars Expanded Universe (now known as Legends) and the current canon offer different paths, each with its own merits and challenges. This article will explore various approaches to reading Star Wars books, considering both chronological and thematic orders, as well as the impact of the Disney acquisition on the canon.

Chronological Order: A Journey Through Time

One of the most straightforward ways to approach the Star Wars books is to read them in chronological order. This means starting with the earliest events in the Star Wars timeline and moving forward. For those who prefer a linear narrative, this method can provide a clear sense of progression and continuity.

The Dawn of the Jedi

The earliest stories in the Star Wars timeline are set in the era of the Dawn of the Jedi, thousands of years before the events of the movies. Books like Dawn of the Jedi: Into the Void by Tim Lebbon explore the origins of the Jedi Order and the Force itself. Reading these books first can give readers a foundational understanding of the Star Wars universe.

The Old Republic

Following the Dawn of the Jedi, the Old Republic era is another rich period filled with epic tales of Jedi and Sith. Books like Deceived by Paul S. Kemp and Revan by Drew Karpyshyn delve into the conflicts between the Jedi and Sith, offering a deeper look into the history of the galaxy.

The Rise of the Empire

As we move closer to the events of the movies, the Rise of the Empire era becomes crucial. Books like Darth Plagueis by James Luceno and Tarkin by James Luceno provide insight into the machinations of Palpatine and the rise of the Galactic Empire. These books are essential for understanding the political landscape that leads to the events of the original trilogy.

The Original Trilogy and Beyond

The books set during and after the original trilogy, such as Heir to the Empire by Timothy Zahn (part of the Legends continuity), offer a continuation of the story beyond the movies. These books explore the aftermath of the Empire’s fall and the challenges faced by the New Republic.

Thematic Order: Exploring the Galaxy Through Themes

For those who prefer a more thematic approach, reading Star Wars books based on specific themes or characters can be equally rewarding. This method allows readers to focus on particular aspects of the Star Wars universe that interest them the most.

The Jedi and the Force

Books that focus on the Jedi and the Force, such as The Jedi Path by Daniel Wallace and The Book of Sith by Daniel Wallace, offer a deep dive into the philosophies, teachings, and history of the Jedi and Sith. These books are perfect for readers who want to understand the spiritual and mystical elements of the Star Wars universe.

The Sith and the Dark Side

For those fascinated by the dark side, books like Darth Bane: Path of Destruction by Drew Karpyshyn and Lords of the Sith by Paul S. Kemp provide a closer look at the Sith and their rise to power. These books explore the darker aspects of the Star Wars universe, offering a different perspective on the eternal struggle between light and dark.

The Galactic Civil War

Books that focus on the Galactic Civil War, such as Battlefront: Twilight Company by Alexander Freed and Lost Stars by Claudia Gray, offer a ground-level view of the conflict between the Rebel Alliance and the Empire. These books provide a more personal and intimate look at the war, focusing on the experiences of soldiers and civilians caught in the crossfire.

The New Canon and the Disney Era

With the acquisition of Lucasfilm by Disney in 2012, the Star Wars canon underwent a significant overhaul. Many of the books and stories from the Expanded Universe were rebranded as Legends, and a new canon was established. Books like A New Dawn by John Jackson Miller and Aftermath by Chuck Wendig are part of this new canon, offering fresh perspectives and new stories within the Star Wars universe.

The Impact of the Disney Acquisition

The Disney acquisition has had a profound impact on the Star Wars canon, leading to a more cohesive and interconnected universe. However, it has also created some confusion for fans, as the new canon diverges from the previously established Expanded Universe. For readers, this means that some books are no longer considered part of the official Star Wars timeline, while others have been recontextualized within the new canon.

For those looking to explore the new canon, it’s important to start with books that are explicitly part of the current timeline. Books like Bloodline by Claudia Gray and Leia, Princess of Alderaan by Claudia Gray offer new insights into familiar characters and events, while also introducing new elements to the Star Wars universe.

The Role of Legends

While the Legends continuity is no longer part of the official canon, it still holds a special place in the hearts of many fans. Books like The Thrawn Trilogy by Timothy Zahn and The X-Wing Series by Michael A. Stackpole are considered classics within the Star Wars community. For readers who want to explore the rich history of the Expanded Universe, these books are a must-read.

Conclusion: A Galaxy of Possibilities

Ultimately, the order in which you read Star Wars books depends on your personal preferences and interests. Whether you choose to follow a chronological order, explore thematic connections, or dive into the new canon, the Star Wars universe offers a wealth of stories and experiences. The key is to find the approach that resonates with you and allows you to fully immerse yourself in the galaxy far, far away.

Q: Are the Star Wars books considered canon? A: It depends on the book. After the Disney acquisition, many books from the Expanded Universe were rebranded as Legends and are no longer considered part of the official canon. However, books published after 2014 are generally part of the new canon.

Q: Should I read the Legends books or stick to the new canon? A: Both have their merits. The Legends books offer a rich and expansive history of the Star Wars universe, while the new canon provides a more cohesive and interconnected narrative. It ultimately depends on your personal preference.

Q: What is the best Star Wars book to start with? A: If you’re new to Star Wars books, A New Dawn by John Jackson Miller is a good starting point, as it is part of the new canon and introduces key characters and events. For those interested in the Legends continuity, Heir to the Empire by Timothy Zahn is a classic and highly recommended.

Q: How do I know if a Star Wars book is part of the new canon? A: Books published after 2014 are generally part of the new canon. You can also check the official Star Wars website or consult fan resources for a comprehensive list of canon and Legends books.