Gr 4-8 –Middle grade “Star Wars” fanatics as well as those new to the franchise will find plenty to enjoy in Angleberger’s take on Star Wars Episode VI: Return of the Jedi. As in the film, readers are quickly brought up to speed with three brief paragraphs of exposition. Angleberger sticks closely to the source material, moving through the film scene by scene and including much of the original dialogue. At the same time, he adds plenty of background, drawing on his familiarity with the canon to incorporate character thoughts and motivations, insight into the intergalactic politics at play, and the essentials of the various planets and moons that serve as setting. Occasional footnotes provide quick, often humorous asides on a wide range of trivia and facts, from the importance of the Death Star’s elevators to the difference between bowcasters and blaster rifles. Angleberger’s enthusiasm for and deep knowledge of the “Star Wars” universe is evident, but he exercises restraint, balancing obscure details that will only interest hard-core fans with more general context needed by those new to the story. Spot illustrations and cinematic descriptions make it easy for readers to visualize the action. VERDICT Those familiar with the classic movie will find this to be a faithful adaptation with the bonus of Angleberger’s distinctive and amusing narrative voice. New fans will be inspired to seek out the original, and won’t be spoiled by having enjoyed this version.–Chelsea Couillard-Smith, Hennepin County Library, MN

Gr 5 Up –Bracken channels the Force to deliver a solid retelling of the “Star Wars” story that started it all. The princess (Leia), the scoundrel (Han Solo), and the farm boy (Luke) each take turns as the center of attention as the story progresses almost identically to the original film, A New Hope. The trio, along with wise Master Kenobi, must evade Vader and the Empire’s forces and bring back detailed plans of the enemy’s super weapon if they are to have any chance in the war. The story line is well paced, and Bracken brings readers slightly deeper into the minds of the three heroes. The story is divided into three sections, one for each character; this narrative format is expertly done and not only feels novel but breathes new life into this retelling. VERDICT Avid fans of the franchise—as well as those new to the “Star Wars” universe wanting to delve into the history in anticipation of the new film—will enjoy this and likely pick up the two sequels, So You Want to Be a Jedi? by Adam Gidwitz and Beware the Power of the Dark Side! by Tom Angleberger (both Disney/Lucasfilm Pr., 2015).–Chad Lane, Tulip Grove Elementary School, MD

Gidwitz, Adam. Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back: So You Want To Be a Jedi? illus. by Ralph McQuarrie & Joe Johnston. 336p. Disney/Lucasfilm Pr. 2015. Tr $17.99. ISBN 9781484709146.

Gr 5 Up –In this adventure, readers take on the persona of Luke Skywalker. Following the events of the 1980 film The Empire Strikes Back, readers fight in the Battle of Hoth, get frostbite, meet Yoda, battle against Darth Vader, and save Leia and Chewbacca. At the end of each chapter is a hands-on exercise for readers to try and harness the energy of the Force. Illustrations, both interspersed throughout the text and full-page spreads at the beginning of each part, are well done and reminiscent of the original characters and scenes. The plot is true to the original movie while offering a new and unique perspective. The narrative style, told throughout in the second person, may prove difficult for some but also serves to lighten the mood and draw in more reluctant readers. Lessons provided are fun and will appeal to anyone who has ever wanted to be a Jedi. VERDICT Hand this to “Star Wars” fans as well as lovers of space-based science fiction.–Kira Moody, Whitmore Public Library, Salt Lake City, UT