Best Star Wars books #1 – The Thrawn Trilogy by Timothy Zahn

Fans of Star Wars books young and old can usually agree that this series by Timothy Zahn—which includes Heir to the Empire, Dark Force Rising and The Last Command—is the crown jewel of the Star Wars Legends compendium. It has been said that “this trilogy is the keystone of the entire expanded universe”, and deservedly so.

The Thrawn Trilogy by Timothy Zahn
The Thrawn Trilogy by Timothy Zahn

This series introduces us to Grand Admiral Thrawn, now as part of the Empire. Thrawn is one of the most enigmatic characters of the Star Wars universe. The story picks up right after the action of Return of the Jedi, and doesn’t quit a single ounce through all three books. A bonus benefit of this awesome tale is the first appearance of another enigmatic character fans crave to see one day on the big screen, Mara Jade. Finally, here is also the first appearance of Jacen and Jaina Solo… big fan-favorites that the current canon has, sadly, not recognized.

The new Thrawn book series (also by Zahn) as well as his appearance in Star Wars: Rebels makes him now official canon. In addition, the current Thrawn book series prove Disney isn’t dumb… they brought Zahn back to revive the Grand Admiral’s tale. This could be one area where the fans were heard and acknowledged.

Best of the best: Which ones are on your list?

The odds of your list and mine being the same are 3,720 to 1, but that’s alright. Debate on which book or series is your favorite is what makes the Star Wars fandom the best in the world, and the most opinionated!

There’s plenty more where these came from. What’s your favorite that was left out? We want to hear from you. Sound off!

Influenced by: Forbes, but only a little.