cover image Heir to the Jedi: Star Wars

Heir to the Jedi: Star Wars

Kevin Hearne, read by Marc Thompson. Random House Audio, unabridged, 8 CDs, 9 hours $40 ISBN 978-0-8041-9175-3

Luke Skywalker has just joined the Rebel Alliance and helped destroy the first Death Star. The Rebels now have him running missions while they look for a place to hide from the Empire. In his latest mission, he gets close to the Imperials several times, makes some new friends and alliances, and begins to find his way in the Force. Thompson does a solid job narrating this first-person tale. At times he sounds uncannily similar to Mark Hamill, who portrayed Skywalker in the movies, which fans will enjoy. Thompson doesn't do nearly as well with other established character voices, such as Princess Leia, but since they have minimal roles in this audio book, it is less relevant. The production includes a variety of sound effects, such as beeping from R2-D2, igniting light sabers, and weaponry firing during spaceship battles. Additionally, listeners will enjoy the occasional infusion of the classic John Williams Star Wars soundtrack. A Del Rey/Lucas hardcover. (Mar.)