Written by Ryder Windham /Based on the Story by George Lucas and Screenplay by Lawrence Kasdan & George Lucas
SUMMARY:
Published by Scholastic Books in 2004, this 188-page paperback adaptation is a junior film novelization of the mostly recently remastered edition of Return of the Jedi (i.e. the cameo presence of a younger Anakin Skywalker). Bolstered by sixteen pages of film stills, author Ryder Windham updates the wording of the film’s original 1983 novelizationfor a contemporary pre-teen audience. Returning to Tatooine, Luke Skywalker leads a rescue effort to free a carbonite-frozen Han Solo from Jabba the Hutt’s stronghold. Then, the Rebel Alliance faces its ultimate test: a two-prong assault to destroy the Galactic Empire’s nearly-built second Death Star. Growing into his legacy as the last Jedi Knight, Luke learns another startling secret that Obi-Wan Kenobi and Yoda have kept from him. While his friends fiercely battle the Empire in a last-ditch effort to save the galaxy, Luke confronts Darth Vader and the ominous Emperor in a Jedi Knight’s last stand.
REVIEW:
As with his adaptation of The Empire Strikes Back, author Ryder Windham’s rehash is just as good (if not better) than the original novelization by James Kahn. Considering the movie’s recycled plot elements, Windham succeeds in bolstering the film’s poignant depth at the right moments. For pre-teen fans and adults, this version of Star Wars, Episode VI: Return of the Jedi proves a treat to read.
ADDITIONAL CONTENT:
With brief one-line descriptions, the sixteen pages of photos are a major plus!
BRIAN’S ODD MOON RATING: 8 Stars
