Decades before Disney's landmark $4 billion acquisition of Lucasfilm, before the prequels, and even before the original Star Wars film, writers were already crafting a galaxy far, far beyond what we'd see on screen. The Star Wars Expanded Universe—later rebranded "Legends" after the Disney purchase in 2014—became a sprawling tapestry of books, comics, and games, pushing the boundaries of the saga. Despite its decanonization, Legends remains a treasure trove of beloved stories, influencing current Star Wars canon, as seen with Thrawn's recent live-action appearances in Ahsoka. Ready to explore this rich corner of the Star Wars universe? Here’s where to begin your Legends journey.
Which Star Wars Legends Books Should You Read First?
Navigating the hundreds of Legends titles can feel daunting. This curated list offers a perfect starting point, showcasing the best and most impactful stories. From the origins of the Expanded Universe and the franchise itself to zombie stormtroopers and the vibrant adventures of iconic Star Wars offspring, this selection offers a thrilling exploration of the galaxy far, far away. All 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, one of the earliest additions to the Expanded Universe alongside Marvel comics and newspaper strips, served as potential source material for a low-budget sequel to A New Hope. While never adapted, it's a crucial piece of Legends history. Following Luke and Leia (without Han or Chewie), it depicts their efforts to rally support for the Rebellion, culminating in an exciting Leia/Vader showdown and expanding on Force lore.
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 roguish smuggler. Han Solo at Stars' End, the first book, is the third Star Wars novel ever published. Brian Daley's writing takes Han and Chewie on thrilling adventures through the galaxy's criminal underworld, highlighting their iconic partnership.
Heir to the Empire (1991)
### Kindle Edition Heir to the Empire
$3.99 at Amazon
Highly influential within Legends, Timothy Zahn's Thrawn trilogy begins here. Set five years after the Battle of Endor, it introduces Grand Admiral Thrawn, a powerful Chiss commander who's become a fan favorite, later transitioning into canon appearances in Star Wars Rebels and Ahsoka. This book significantly reshaped the Star Wars universe, both on and off-screen.
Darth Bane: Path of Destruction (2006)
### Path of Destruction
$8.99 at Amazon
Another iconic trilogy, this series explores Darth Bane and his impact on the galaxy. Drew Karpyshyn's compelling narrative is engaging for both Star Wars enthusiasts and sci-fi readers alike. Told from a Sith perspective, it delves into the origins of the Rule of Two and one of history's most formidable Sith Lords.
Star Wars: Young Jedi Knights: Heirs of the Force (1995)
### Paperback Heirs of the Force
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This series follows Han and Leia's Force-sensitive children, Jacen and Jaina, as they train at Luke Skywalker's Jedi Academy. Their adventures, particularly Jacen's eventual fall 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 short story collection is a fan favorite, notably revealing Boba Fett's survival of the Sarlacc Pit—a plot point later adapted in The Book of Boba Fett. It offers a fun, diverse array of alien-centric tales.
Death Troopers (2009)
### Kindle Edition Death Troopers
$11.99 at Amazon
While less lore-heavy, this standalone horror novel about zombie stormtroopers is a unique and thrilling addition to Legends. Joe Schreiber delivers a chilling tale of survival amidst the undead.
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). This dark and compelling tale explores the Sith's ruthlessness and the allure of ultimate power.
How Many Star Wars Legends Books Are There?
The Legends universe encompasses nearly 400 books, along with numerous comics, games, and films, spanning from 1977 to 2014.
Star Wars Legends vs. Canon
Legends material is no longer considered canon, but its influence on current Star Wars storytelling is undeniable. While some elements remain separate, others have been reintroduced or reinterpreted into canon.
Though Legends books are not canon, many contemporary canon novels expand the Star Wars galaxy, such as the High Republic series. Other canon novels include Leia by Claudia Gray, E. K. Johnston's Padmé trilogy, The Princess and the Scoundrel by Beth Revis, and Last Shot by Daniel José Older.
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