The Jedi Council embarks on a goodwill mission to a struggling planet, facing challenges from warring pirate factions and questioning their role in the changing galaxy, highlighting themes of compassion, duty, and the consequences of isolation. The story delves into the personal journeys of each council member, showcasing their individual strengths, weaknesses, and the complexities of their relationships within the Order.

Reader Review Summary

Star Wars: The Living Force is an engaging and thought-provoking addition to the Star Wars canon that explores the Jedi Order's role in the galaxy during the pivotal time leading up to the events of The Phantom Menace. Bestselling author John Jackson Miller delivers a unique and ambitious story that brings together all twelve members of the Jedi Council, along with the fan-favorite duo of Qui-Gon Jinn and Obi-Wan Kenobi, on a mission to reconnect with the people they serve and protect.

One of the book's greatest strengths is its impressive cast of characters. Miller skillfully juggles the perspectives of the entire Jedi Council, giving each member a distinct personality, set of strengths and weaknesses, and opportunity to shine. The interactions between these powerful Jedi Masters, who have known each other for decades or even centuries, are a delight to read, filled with history, humor, and genuine camaraderie. Stand-out characters include the ancient and mischievous Yarael Poof, the data-driven Eeth Koth, and the gruff but skilled Saesee Tiin. Depa Billaba's arc is particularly well-developed, as she grapples with the Jedi tenet of non-attachment while forming a bond with a young orphan girl named Kylah.

At its core, The Living Force asks important questions about the Jedi Order's role in the galaxy and the consequences of their increasing isolation and focus on the bigger picture. Qui-Gon Jinn's challenge to the Council - to leave the comfort of the Jedi Temple and directly help individuals in need - serves as the catalyst for a journey that forces the Jedi to confront the changing galaxy and their place within it. Miller deftly explores the transition from the Golden Age of the High Republic to the waning years of the Jedi Order, showing how the Jedi's priorities have shifted over time and the impact this has had on the people they serve.

The book's plot, which involves warring pirate factions and a menacing pirate queen, provides ample opportunity for thrilling action sequences and displays of Jedi prowess. While the villain may not be the most compelling, the true heart of the story lies in the Jedi's individual missions and the lessons they learn along the way. Miller's prose is engaging and entertaining throughout, balancing humor, heart, and introspection.

The Living Force is a must-read for fans of the prequel era and anyone who has ever wanted to delve deeper into the workings of the Jedi Council. It offers a rare glimpse into the personalities and dynamics of these iconic characters, while also exploring weighty themes about the nature of the Force, the importance of connection, and the challenges of maintaining peace in a galaxy on the brink of change. Despite the limitations of being a tie-in novel set just before the events of a film, Miller crafts a compelling and emotionally resonant story that enriches our understanding of the Jedi and the Star Wars universe as a whole.