Decades before Disney's landmark $4 billion acquisition of Lucasfilm, before the prequels, and even before the original Star Wars film, writers were already expanding the galaxy far, far away. The Star Wars Expanded Universe, later rebranded "Legends" in 2014, pushed the boundaries of the saga through countless books, comics, and games. Despite its decanonization, Legends remains a treasure trove of compelling storytelling, influencing current Star Wars canon, as evidenced by Thrawn's recent live-action debut in Ahsoka. Ready to explore this rich tapestry? Here's a curated list of essential Star Wars Legends books to get you started.
Which Star Wars Legends Books Should You Read First?
Navigating the hundreds of Legends titles can be daunting. This list highlights the most impactful and enjoyable starting points, from the origins of the Expanded Universe to thrilling adventures featuring iconic characters and introducing new favorites. All these books are readily available on Amazon.
Splinter of the Mind's Eye (1977)
### Kindle Edition Splinter of the Mind's Eye
$4.99 at Amazon
This novel, conceived as a potential low-budget sequel to A New Hope, launched the Expanded Universe alongside Marvel comics and newspaper strips. Featuring Luke and Leia (but no Han or Chewie), it showcases a thrilling Leia/Vader duel and expands on Force lore and cosmic powers.
The Han Solo Adventures (1979)
### Kindle Edition The Han Solo Adventures
$8.99 at Amazon
This beloved trilogy compensates for Han's absence in Splinter of the Mind's Eye, focusing on the charming smuggler. Beginning with Han Solo at Stars' End, the third Star Wars novel ever published, Brian Daley's trilogy takes Han and Chewie on thrilling adventures through the galaxy's criminal underworld.
Heir to the Empire (1991)
### Kindle Edition Heir to the Empire
$3.99 at Amazon
Highly influential, Timothy Zahn's Thrawn trilogy begins here, set five years after the Battle of Endor. Introducing Grand Admiral Thrawn, a powerful Chiss commander, this book reshaped Star Wars on and off-screen, with Thrawn's recent canon appearances.
Darth Bane: Path of Destruction (2006)
### Path of Destruction
$8.99 at Amazon
Drew Karpyshyn's iconic Darth Bane trilogy explores the infamous Sith Lord's rise to power. Offering a Sith perspective, it delves into the origins of the Rule of Two and one of history's most formidable Sith Lords. Engaging for both Star Wars and sci-fi fans.
Star Wars: Young Jedi Knights: Heirs of the Force (1995)
### Paperback Heirs of the Force
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This beloved series follows Han and Leia's Force-sensitive children, Jacen and Jaina, training at Luke Skywalker's Jedi Academy. Their journey, including Jacen's eventual turn to the dark side as Darth Caedus, significantly influenced Kylo Ren in the sequel trilogy.
Tales from Jabba's Palace (1995)
### Kindle Edition Tales from Jabba's Palace
$4.99 at Amazon
This collection of short stories, notably revealing Boba Fett's survival of the Sarlacc Pit (later adapted into The Book of Boba Fett), offers a fun, bizarre look at the galaxy's diverse inhabitants.
Death Troopers (2009)
### Kindle Edition Death Troopers
$11.99 at Amazon
This standalone horror story, featuring zombie Stormtroopers, is a thrilling and unique addition to the Legends universe. Joe Schreiber's chilling tale delivers a fresh take on the Star Wars galaxy.
Darth Plagueis (2012)
### Kindle Edition Darth Plagueis
$12.99 at Amazon
James Luceno's acclaimed novel tells the story of Darth Plagueis, the wise Sith Lord who trained Darth Sidious (Emperor Palpatine). A dark and compelling tale exploring ambition, power, and the Sith's brutal history.
How Many Star Wars Legends Books Are There?
Nearly 400 books, along with numerous comics, games, and films, comprise the Legends universe. This expansive collection spanned nearly four decades, from 1977 to 2014.
Star Wars Legends vs. Canon
Legends material is non-canon, but its influence on current Star Wars storytelling is undeniable. While some elements remain purely Legends, others have inspired or even directly transitioned into canon. The ongoing evolution of Star Wars demonstrates the enduring impact of the Expanded Universe. Many contemporary canon novels further expand the galaxy, such as the High Republic series.
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