In a franchise as loved by millions as the Star Wars saga, there are still mysteries to be uncovered about the main characters. The last trilogy of movies made for a passing of the torch for many fans. Every generation in the last 50 years, who have been fans of the franchise has had their own relationship with it. My generation grew up on the original trilogy while other generations got to know the universe the new movies and television shows created.

This is why when we hear that there are new stories culled from this universe about our most beloved characters we are mostly overjoyed. When Ken Liu released his book based on new adventures with Luke Skywalker I was definitely in line to pick it up. As I read the stories contained, it occurred to me just how much he loved this world as well. In VIZ Media’s graphic adaptation, Star Wars: The Legends Of Luke Skywalker, they bring to life the adventures he went on in Liu’s brilliant novel.

In the first story, “The Starship Graveyard”, with art by Akira Fukuya and Takashi Kiskaki, a Star Destroyer pilot crashes near a rebel base and has his own encounter with the infamous Jedi Knight, one which gives him a totally different view.  In “I Droid”, Haruichi illustrates how R2-D2 and C-3PO get sent to a work colony and Luke not only frees them but liberates the whole colony. In “The Tale Lugubrious Mote” Subaru brings to life a tale where an insect in Jabba The Hut’s lair tells from a different perspective Luke Skywalker’s meeting with Jabba in Return Of The Jedi and how Leia was not truly alone in her time there. In the final story, “Big Inside”, Akira Himekawa illustrates a story of a young biology student who gets rescued by Luke, only to go on her own adventure with the intrepid Jedi Knight as he encounters an old friend through the Force.

Overall, an engaging set of stories, though they rethread some familiar territory, it strikes that rich balance of nostalgia and intrigue. The stories by Liu are pure fan service. The art by the different creators is imbued with love and is very striking. Altogether, this book is the reason why so many fans have stayed in love with the franchise.

Story: Ken Liu Art: Akira Himekawa , Haruichi, Akira Fukaya, Takashi Kisaki, Subaru
Story: 9.7 Art: 9.8 Overall: 9.8 Recommendation: Buy