I WAS WRONG!

I didn't think I'd like this book! Minor spoilers for Outcast

I didn't think I'd like "Fate of the Jedi: Outcast."

The whole idea of Luke as some sort of criminal, sent packing from the Jedi Temple in disgrace really rubbed me the wrong way. And the whole idea that there IS a fate for the Jedi disturbs me.

The Jedi are the heroes of Star Wars. (If you don't like them, don't bother commenting, since you have your head somewhere the sun doesn't shine.) If they're going to be destroyed or even diminished, I'm not interested in reading about it. Don't go there, George!

Anyway, I needed something to read, something Star Wars, and "Outcast" was on sale. Pre-release price. And it's by Aaron Allston (X-Wing Series) who's one of my more favorite authors and a nice guy, so I thought I'd give it a try.

Much to my pleasant surprise, it was really enjoyable. Yes, Luke is outcast, kicked off Coruscant for ten years, but he's not fazed by it. His son Ben goes with him, and they are so great together.

Exclamations of surprise and disapproval filled the room then. Ben kept his face impassive, but inwardly he was smiling. Much as he liked causing trouble from time to time, it was just as much fun watching his father do it.

The book is peppered with snarky exchanges between the two of them and their enemies.

Luke is the patient Jedi Master throughout. Most impressive.

"I would stand no chance in combat with the true Luke Skywalker."

Luke smiled outright. "Or any sufficiently well-trained impostor."

"That is not a given. Regardless, were you to defeat me, I would acknowledge that your claim to be Luke Skywalker was possibly true."

Luke nodded. "A useful solution. But impractical."

"Why?"

"Because you are not worthy to face me."

Yes! That's the Luke we deserve to have! Woo Hoo!

Thanks Aaron, and I hope you're feeling better!