We all know that Disney abandoned the Star Wars Expanded Universe when it acquired Lucasfilm from George Lucas. And yes, to say fan reaction upon learning that the EU would henceforth be known as “Legends” was a bit heated is an understatement. Nevertheless, the stories of old, told outside the current canon, were something special. So much so that they continue to hold the attention and affection of Star Wars fans world-wide. Thanks to Del Rey, many of those stories are returning (from a certain point of view). Beginning in June, the best of the EU becomes part of the new Star Wars Essential Legends Collection.
Here’s the official world from the publisher on the collection:
“In celebration of the 50th anniversary of Lucasfilm, Del Rey is curating a collection of essential and beloved Star Wars novels from the past…. To this day, the [Expanded Universe] remains an inspiration for Star Wars creators and is published under the label Legends. Ideas, characters, story elements, and more from new Star Wars entertainment trace their origins back to material from the Expanded Universe. This Essential Legends Collection curates some of the most treasured stories from that expansive legacy.”
Star Wars Essential Legends Collection comes to paperback
The Star Wars Essential Legends Collection kicks off in June, 2021. It begins with three, new paperback editions of some of the most popular EU novels ever. They include Heir to the Empire by Timothy Zahn, Darth Bane: Path of Destruction by Drew Karpyshyn, and Shatterpoint by Matthew Stover:
“Each edition will have a new book cover with original artwork. Tracie Ching is the cover artist of Heir to the Empire, Simon Goinard is the cover artist of Path of Destruction, and Jeff Manning is the cover artist of Shatterpoint. In addition to the new cover, Shatterpoint will also receive an all-new unabridged audiobook edition, narrated by Sullivan Jones.”
The Star Wars Essential Legends Collection doesn’t end there, however. More titles will follow this coming fall… So you better start making some room on you bookshelves now!
