Old Friends: Jaina and Jacen Solo, Lowbacca, Sirra, Raaba, Lusa, Zekk, Tenel Ka, Raynar Thul, Em Teedee, Ta'a Chume, Noola Tarkona, Dengar, Bobba Fett, Bornan Thul, Adjutant Advisor Hornak, Corrsk, Luke Skywalker Synopsis: Lowbacca has gone to Ryloth with his sister Sirra to join the Diversity Alliance, sponsored by another Wookie, Raaba. The Solo twins and their friends decide that Lowie doesn't know what he's gotten into when an old friend arrives at the Jedi Academy with very scary information. Of course, the Young Jedi Knights don't tell anyone where they're off to once they decide he needs rescuing. And, as usual, eventually, they need rescuing as well. Review:This book is the 10th in the Young Jedi Knights series and is a very nice addition to the timeline as we watch the Solo twins and friends grow up, get into trouble, learn more about themselves and the Force, get in trouble, and get rescued, once again. This one picks up immediately after Delusions of Grandeur, Part 1 of the Diversity Alliance 4 book set. All the books in the Young Jedi Knights are grouped in parts that encompass an entire story, but each group can stand on its own. This is especially true of the Diversity Alliance additions to the series. The only thing the new reader must understand in order to appreciate this 4 part series, and especially this book, is that some alien members of the New Republic have decided that all humans are responsible for the Emperor's predations against all non-human species. Hence, this group sets out to destroy all humankind. Lead by a fanatical Twi'lek, Noola Tarkona, who just happens to be Ooola's sister (you remember her, the dancer Jabba fed to the Rancor?), the Alliance is mining Ryll on Ryloth to pay for their attacks on the New Republic. Unfortunately, they are kidnapping humans to do the mining - not a good life by any means. The Young Jedi Knights get caught up in this mess after Lowbacca, Chewbacca's nephew, is conned into visiting Ryloth with his sister to check out this splinter group. Of course, he is being recruited away from all he knows as a Jedi, and the subtle brainwashing is interesting to watch. The devotion to his friends is in conflict with his alliegence to the Wookie race. Tough going all the way around for the Wookie, and having a Trandoshan Bounty Hunter on his case isn't very encouraging. The character development of all the young people, in their early teens now, is interesting, as well as their interaction among themselves and with their elders. Luke, Leia, Han et al make token appearances, but the story is really about the kids, friendship and doing the right thing. All in all, even tho this is a "young adult" novel, it was enjoyable and easy reading for a Star Wars fan who wants to know more about how these kids grow up.
Title: Jedi Bounty |
