May the Force Be With You

A short time ago in a library, fairly close by…

Star Wars Episode VIII: The Last Jedi is about two weeks away, and needless to say I’ve been busy with all things Star Wars. I’ve been watching the movies, avoiding spoilers, stalking Mark Hamill on Instagram, and adding a Chewbacca mask to my Amazon wish list. Star Wars has spilled over to my bookshelf.

If you have never read a Star Wars book before, I would suggest you begin with Bloodline by Claudia Gray. Set six years before The Force Awakens, witness the rise of the First Order and the formation of the Resistance. Senator Leia Organa is tired of the partisan gridlock and infighting in the New Republic Senate. Flying through the galaxy with a certain scoundrel sounds much more appealing. With the creation of the First Senator position, Leia reluctantly accepts the nomination, as she deal with criminals, Imperial loyalists, scheming politicians, and the well-kept secret of her bloodline. For further reading, Gray explores Leia’s beginnings in Leia, Princess of Alderaan.

Disappointed with the small role Captain Phasma had in the Force Awakens? Phasma by Delilah S. Dawson gives fans the Captain Phasma we wanted since we were first introduced to the formidable chrome stormtrooper. Her ruthlessness and cunning has earned Captain Phasma her position in the First Order, a position she intends to keep. Jealous of his rival, Cardinal, a crimson-armored stormtrooper, has found the key to Captain Phasma’s undoing: her past. This fast-paced, action-packed tie-in to The Last Jedi, reveals the mysterious origins of Captain Phasma.

For less intense Star Wars reads, I recommend the Origami Yoda series by Tom Angleberger. Beginning with The Strange Case of Origami Yoda, this funny and charming children’s series follows class weirdo Dwight and his friends as they survive middle school with the help of Dwight’s Star Wars origami characters. Each book includes instructions on creating your own Star Wars origami character. When attempting the origami, remember Yoda’s wise words: “Do. Or do not. There is no try.”

Ever wonder what type of dad Darth Vader would have made? Author Jeffrey Brown explores just that in Darth Vader and Son, the first book in the Star Wars: Darth Vader and Kids series. This charming series follows Darth Vader as he balances raising Luke and Leia and being the most feared Sith Lord in the galaxy. Filled with Jeffrey Brown’s delightful illustrations, these picture books are fun for the whole Star Wars car decal family! 

With all the Star Wars reading you’ll be doing, I sense a great need for bookmarks. On Wednesday, Dec. 13, 3:30-4:30 p.m., West University Branch Library is making Rey bookmarks! This program is open for all school-age children. For more information contact Miss Nami at 832-927-5490.

Until next time, may the Force be with you.