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Star Wars: Essential Guides #14
Jedi vs. Sith The Essential Guide to the Force by Windham, Ryder [LucasBooks,2007]
Jedi vs. Sith The Essential Guide to the Force by Windham, Ryder. Published by LucasBooks,2007, Paperback
Unknown Binding
First published November 27, 2007
136 people are currently reading
514 people want to read
About the author
Ryder Windham
276 books168 followersRyder Windham is an American sci-fi author who has written over sixty Star Wars books, including novels, comics, reference books, and so on. He has also written junior novelizations for Indiana Jones movies. Since 1993, he has been working on Star Wars projects either by himself or with other authors. His reference book Star Wars: The Ultimate Visual Guide had been on the New York Times Best Seller list for three weeks in 2005. Although he has written lots of books, accepted interviews, and appeared at several fan-conventions, little is known about his personal life.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
January 13, 2015
I picked this up because, having collected the Expanded Universe books for years, it’s fair to say by this point the chronology has expanded to the point where sometimes I find myself hunting for a quick and easy answer to dates, chronological order, and pertinent details of significant events. What with the books being churned out so fast in the final few years before Disney declared that timeline entirely defunct (*shakes fist*), even a stalwart multiple-readthrough aficionado of the series such as myself became a little lost on getting every little detail straight. I decided to get this book, read it through cover to cover once, and then keep it in future as a handy reference guide. And, having finished it, I think it will serve its intended purpose reasonably well. I say reasonably well – more on the book’s pitfalls in a moment, but I’ll address what the book does well first.
The artwork within is indeed gorgeous and lavish, I only wished it were bigger so I could fully appreciate it. I must sing the praises of the artists that work on this. It’s lively, vibrant, colourful, truly high quality. I also rather enjoyed the conceit of Tionne being the author of the work, which is rather different from other Guides that have come out over the years. It did feel a little more immersive, and in-character I have to say. I appreciate the timeline, which will no doubt prove useful as a quick reference in future, and I was most interested in the Sith and other Force user sections, since so little has been written about these groups in the books; just hints of information over the years that have been all in all rather tantalising and frustrating in equal measure.
I could’ve done without the final section recounting the life of Anakin Skywalker. It seemed superfluous. Since it’s been chronicled in the films, it’s such a well-known story that it didn’t need to be told again – I got this as an aid to keeping the books’ chronology straight, I don’t need help remembering the films. Also it was disappointing to some extent that the entries were as short as they were, and I can’t help feeling that they barely provide any more new insights than Wookieepedia – in some cases I’m willing to bet the Wookieepedia entry actually has more. The final caveat is that since this book was published in 2007, it contains the glaring omissions of all the additional history that the mythos has added to its chronology since then – for example the Jedi Order on Tython and the battles against the Rakatan Empire.
All in all, not as useful as I’d hoped, but useful enough that I can use it as originally intended; as a quick reference guide for chronology.
6 out of 10
December 11, 2022
Mostly info on various aspects of Star Wars lore, characters and stuff, with lots of nice little short stories about events and Jedi/Sith.
A nice addon to the collection if you're a fan.
3rd read: A very well written book full of lore throughout many eras of the star wars expanding universe that you can reread again and again and again!
A nice addon to the collection if you're a fan.
3rd read: A very well written book full of lore throughout many eras of the star wars expanding universe that you can reread again and again and again!
October 28, 2022
I have been a Star Wars fan for about 12 years now, so wanting to learn a little more about the Force seemed a good next step.
Written from Tionne's point of view, this book details the evolution of the Jedi, Sith, and other Force Users, explains certain powers each has, and other tidbits about the Force all brought in one text.
I Liked:
I really enjoyed how the author took the movies, books, comics, video games, and more and put all the Force concepts under one roof. I have been mostly a book and movie fan, so I have missed out on loads of Force information found only in the comics and video games. Fortunately, this book connects the dots and gives a much larger picture to the Force--spanning all eras--more than just the books and movies could provide.
Having Tionne "write" or "compile" the "holo"/book was very clever. It is a quirky way to approach this book, something slightly different from other Essential Guides (particularly the New Essential Guide to Characters).
Also, the epilogue is very interesting. I won't blow away too much of the suspense, but it is completely compatible with how Tionne introduced the Guide.
The illustrators have outdone themselves in this book. Seriously, they need to pat themselves on the back. Characters like Luke Skywalker, Darth Maul, Darth Vader, Githany, Aurra Sing, Qui-Gon, and Obi-Wan really come alive in the vivid colors and beautiful shading. Many of these would be absolutely gorgeous hung on the walls.
Lastly, a few of the "holograms" were really well done. I really truly believed that characters like Tionne, Count Dooku, Mace Windu, and Leia Organa left behind these messages.
I Did Not Like:
My major complaint and the biggest reason this loses serious stars is because the book reads less like a guide of the Force and more like a history text of the Force. Most of the book centers around recounting important events in the movies, books, or comics with very minimal revelation of the Force concepts. I appreciate how the book ties in all eras and mediums, but had I wanted a history of the Force, I could've saved the $25 on this book and checked it out on Wookieepedia. The holos spend more time detailing the events of the movies in extreme detail that doesn't quite make sense when recounted from the person making the holo (I enjoyed the movies, but if I wanted a recap of the podrace or something, I'll watch the movies, thank you) or books or comics which star the characters and less about Force Powers, Saber Forms, or using the Force, which one would assume would be in a book called "The Essential Guide to the Force".
Many of the holos are very Jedi-biased. I suppose this makes sense, as the compiler (Tionne), was a Jedi, but still, I found it very frustrating. There were copious Jedi views of the Sith training, but no Sith views of the Jedi training. And while some of the "holograms" were well done, other characters, such as Obi-Wan (particularly when speaking about Aurra Sing, which comes off rather strange), Mara Jade (who feels completely off kilter from any book I've read), and Luke Skywalker feel so unlike their previously established characters or incredibly stiff that I had to remind myself who was "speaking".
Overall:
If I could choose two words to describe this book, it would be "boring" and "redundant". It is great to see all this Expanded Universe in one place, to see how it relates, and to see the epic story. And many of the "holo" entries are pretty well done (a few aren't, but isn't that always going to happen?). But I've read many of the books, seen the movies. I don't want a book to basically give a retelling of these from a character's point of view, with only a slight connection to the Force thrown in for good measure. Perhaps this wouldn't be so bad if the author actually told about the Force, but instead, most of the book feels like a history of the Force. Even the gorgeous pictures can't bring this book back from the black hole it sucked itself into. 2 stars.
Written from Tionne's point of view, this book details the evolution of the Jedi, Sith, and other Force Users, explains certain powers each has, and other tidbits about the Force all brought in one text.
I Liked:
I really enjoyed how the author took the movies, books, comics, video games, and more and put all the Force concepts under one roof. I have been mostly a book and movie fan, so I have missed out on loads of Force information found only in the comics and video games. Fortunately, this book connects the dots and gives a much larger picture to the Force--spanning all eras--more than just the books and movies could provide.
Having Tionne "write" or "compile" the "holo"/book was very clever. It is a quirky way to approach this book, something slightly different from other Essential Guides (particularly the New Essential Guide to Characters).
Also, the epilogue is very interesting. I won't blow away too much of the suspense, but it is completely compatible with how Tionne introduced the Guide.
The illustrators have outdone themselves in this book. Seriously, they need to pat themselves on the back. Characters like Luke Skywalker, Darth Maul, Darth Vader, Githany, Aurra Sing, Qui-Gon, and Obi-Wan really come alive in the vivid colors and beautiful shading. Many of these would be absolutely gorgeous hung on the walls.
Lastly, a few of the "holograms" were really well done. I really truly believed that characters like Tionne, Count Dooku, Mace Windu, and Leia Organa left behind these messages.
I Did Not Like:
My major complaint and the biggest reason this loses serious stars is because the book reads less like a guide of the Force and more like a history text of the Force. Most of the book centers around recounting important events in the movies, books, or comics with very minimal revelation of the Force concepts. I appreciate how the book ties in all eras and mediums, but had I wanted a history of the Force, I could've saved the $25 on this book and checked it out on Wookieepedia. The holos spend more time detailing the events of the movies in extreme detail that doesn't quite make sense when recounted from the person making the holo (I enjoyed the movies, but if I wanted a recap of the podrace or something, I'll watch the movies, thank you) or books or comics which star the characters and less about Force Powers, Saber Forms, or using the Force, which one would assume would be in a book called "The Essential Guide to the Force".
Many of the holos are very Jedi-biased. I suppose this makes sense, as the compiler (Tionne), was a Jedi, but still, I found it very frustrating. There were copious Jedi views of the Sith training, but no Sith views of the Jedi training. And while some of the "holograms" were well done, other characters, such as Obi-Wan (particularly when speaking about Aurra Sing, which comes off rather strange), Mara Jade (who feels completely off kilter from any book I've read), and Luke Skywalker feel so unlike their previously established characters or incredibly stiff that I had to remind myself who was "speaking".
Overall:
If I could choose two words to describe this book, it would be "boring" and "redundant". It is great to see all this Expanded Universe in one place, to see how it relates, and to see the epic story. And many of the "holo" entries are pretty well done (a few aren't, but isn't that always going to happen?). But I've read many of the books, seen the movies. I don't want a book to basically give a retelling of these from a character's point of view, with only a slight connection to the Force thrown in for good measure. Perhaps this wouldn't be so bad if the author actually told about the Force, but instead, most of the book feels like a history of the Force. Even the gorgeous pictures can't bring this book back from the black hole it sucked itself into. 2 stars.
March 10, 2014
There is no emotion, there is peace.
There is no ignorance, there is knowledge.
There is no chaos, there is harmony.
There is no passion, there is serenity.
There is no death, there is the Force.
In this book we travel to the far reaches of the past and learn of the beginnings of two opposing groups of people; the Jedi and the Sith. How they began and why, the key people who made it all happen, their core values and beliefs, these are all things that you will learn should you choose to read this book. It is not an easy or a quick read however. It is laid out almost like a textbook, with a plethora of knowledge and peppered with gorgeous illustrations. Everything you could ever possibly want to know about the Jedi (and Sith) is documented here in this book in great detail. I've read in other books about lightsabers and the various forms and styles, and marks of contact, but this book really highlights all this information and much more in so much descriptive detail that you can't help but be impressed. Yet despite the informative nature of this book, it never once was boring or failed to hold my attention utterly. It really is a perfect blend of knowledge and fun.
I highly recommend this to any fan of Star Wars who wants to increase their understanding of the world in which the story takes place.
There is no ignorance, there is knowledge.
There is no chaos, there is harmony.
There is no passion, there is serenity.
There is no death, there is the Force.
In this book we travel to the far reaches of the past and learn of the beginnings of two opposing groups of people; the Jedi and the Sith. How they began and why, the key people who made it all happen, their core values and beliefs, these are all things that you will learn should you choose to read this book. It is not an easy or a quick read however. It is laid out almost like a textbook, with a plethora of knowledge and peppered with gorgeous illustrations. Everything you could ever possibly want to know about the Jedi (and Sith) is documented here in this book in great detail. I've read in other books about lightsabers and the various forms and styles, and marks of contact, but this book really highlights all this information and much more in so much descriptive detail that you can't help but be impressed. Yet despite the informative nature of this book, it never once was boring or failed to hold my attention utterly. It really is a perfect blend of knowledge and fun.
I highly recommend this to any fan of Star Wars who wants to increase their understanding of the world in which the story takes place.
October 21, 2017
Like all the informer Star Wars books I've read this was awesome too! Read it when you get the opportunity!
April 3, 2020
Very informative. Maybe too informative. But I guess that's the whole purpose of the book.😅 it's probably better served as something to come to when you need refrence, then to just go read it cover to cover like I did.🤣
January 25, 2021
Much to learn. A much needed updated guide is required. The timeline of events in here, is very informative :)
February 12, 2008
Some Star Wars Universe spoilers from Legacy of the Force.
A fairly complete history of the Force. The book discusses the origin of the Jedi order and the Sith split off. Then, devotes chapters to the Jedi, the Dark Side, the Sith, Other traditions, and the Chosen One. It was written to include facts from the Legacy of the Force series, which kind of puts a bad test in my mouth as I don't really like where the authors have taken the character of Jacen. I could see him studying Sith philosophy and even falling dark but I could never see him killing Mara. So I really didn't like including some of that information.
The book was pretty good as it didn't give me much new information. If you play the Star Wars RPG then you'll already know all of the Force powers they mention. If you've read extensively of the books and comic books (Old Tales of the Jedi primarily) and played some of the video games then you should know most of the rest of it. The format is different obviously, and the stuff written from Palpatine's point of view is interesting. It is nice to have all the info in one place, and if you are collecting the New Essential Guides, you'll want to get this book.
A fairly complete history of the Force. The book discusses the origin of the Jedi order and the Sith split off. Then, devotes chapters to the Jedi, the Dark Side, the Sith, Other traditions, and the Chosen One. It was written to include facts from the Legacy of the Force series, which kind of puts a bad test in my mouth as I don't really like where the authors have taken the character of Jacen. I could see him studying Sith philosophy and even falling dark but I could never see him killing Mara. So I really didn't like including some of that information.
The book was pretty good as it didn't give me much new information. If you play the Star Wars RPG then you'll already know all of the Force powers they mention. If you've read extensively of the books and comic books (Old Tales of the Jedi primarily) and played some of the video games then you should know most of the rest of it. The format is different obviously, and the stuff written from Palpatine's point of view is interesting. It is nice to have all the info in one place, and if you are collecting the New Essential Guides, you'll want to get this book.
June 7, 2008
I'll explain more here later. THE best book buy in the last FIVE YEARS IF NOT MORE.
If you're interested; go get it. Right now. Don't WAIT! It's cheap(for the AMAZING QUALITY of the work); it's detailed; it is unutterably COMPLETE, and it is written from WITHIN the universe, rather than outside it - which is my biggest, BIGGEST beef with "fan"-related texts. Full-color, wide spread glossy pages, beautiful glorious, heart-rending artwork. A historical holocron.
You won't be sorry... but you might be SURPRISED.
If you're interested; go get it. Right now. Don't WAIT! It's cheap(for the AMAZING QUALITY of the work); it's detailed; it is unutterably COMPLETE, and it is written from WITHIN the universe, rather than outside it - which is my biggest, BIGGEST beef with "fan"-related texts. Full-color, wide spread glossy pages, beautiful glorious, heart-rending artwork. A historical holocron.
You won't be sorry... but you might be SURPRISED.
March 4, 2009
This book has some cool art, but isn't super informative. It mostly re-hashes stories from the books/comics. I was hoping for a bit more mystical Force philosophy kind of stuff.
March 18, 2018
This book was written in 2007, so a lot of the information is dated. Still, it is a FANTASTIC resource book with beautiful art. I have seen a lot of it on Wookieepedia, but knowing its source, and seeing other images, is awesome.
Each illustration has a title and the artist who created it, which I don't always see.
I love the basis that Tionne compiles information on Jedi and Sith. She offers it as factual, so this is an in-universe source - likely the first I've read of its kind. There are some addenda by her and others, which is helpful.
A lot of information is purposely left vague to make sure it stays canonical with future publications.
The information comes from books, comics, games, short stories, other resource books, and likely other media. Even if I read a name or place before, the earlier in the timeline it is, the less likely I am to remember. As all the info is together, it's great to see how everything blends. And there's additional information on characters and events in general, which is great.
The topics under each section (and subsection) are not in alphabetical order, but provided in a cohesive manner. The information flows well.
She begins with a timeline, which had my eyes glaze over, but also helped focus on specific information.
First-hand accounts in each main section in the perfect voices of the characters give even more credence to the book.
History & Holocrons
~ Yoda is literally 900 years old. I find that humorous yet I did an eye roll.
The Jedi
~ I really like the peaceful teachings of the past through Jedi like Odan-Urr and Bodo Baas. I'm reminded of Paul's letters in the Bible. The repercussions of the Jedi in government is like church officials in real life. The blatant parallels between Jedi teachings and Christianity are phenomenal. I went into total geek mode.
~ We learn why Jedi only turned to training beings from infancy and not as older children/adults.
~ The Potentium may have been a Sith scheme to subvert Jedi teachings.
Huh. Like....how the devil happens to be in "good" options that, on the surface, seem to help people?
Sometimes the truth is woven in lies.
~ I like the emphasis that the Force flows THROUGH the Jedi, not from them.
~ I don't know if I knew of waterproof vs. non-waterproof lightsabers. That information was neat.
~ Getting past one's own created images of self and pretense opens them to the Force. They can't sculpt the Force; they're sculpted by the Force. This relates yet again to God and the Holy Spirit.
~ I love learned of the seven forms and Vaapad. The images accompanying them are fantastic.
The Dark Side
~ The history of the dark side is fascinating.
~ I like the perspective of there being four stages of the Dark Side. It's interesting to see how many things are from one's point-of-view: evil, redemption, truth, etc.
~ Mara's past is wonderful to read
~ I feel like Kyp's entry on Exar Kun was randomly cut off.
The Sith
~ The possible etymology of "Darth" is so interesting.
~ It's really interesting yet eerie to see how Sith tracked levels of Force ability. The book also explains who can even train on Korriban.
~ Ah, I have to agree with what Revan says as a Sith: The Force changes and transforms a person. As hesitant as I am to make this connection (though Revan twists this to a Sithly meaning), it's exactly like what religion does.
~ I actually liked the history we got about Dooku's past and his [confusing] reason for leaving the Jedi. And how he knows Fett.
~ Sith alchemy is TERRIFYING.
~ The Dark Side Compendium is an intriguing set of books
Other Force Using Organizations
I knew some of these organizations, but not all. I feel like I should have known more. All the books and comics blend together.
The Chosen One
I really like how different people told of the various events surrounding Anakin's life.
The Afterword is a wonderful setup to the Legacy comics.
Each illustration has a title and the artist who created it, which I don't always see.
I love the basis that Tionne compiles information on Jedi and Sith. She offers it as factual, so this is an in-universe source - likely the first I've read of its kind. There are some addenda by her and others, which is helpful.
A lot of information is purposely left vague to make sure it stays canonical with future publications.
The information comes from books, comics, games, short stories, other resource books, and likely other media. Even if I read a name or place before, the earlier in the timeline it is, the less likely I am to remember. As all the info is together, it's great to see how everything blends. And there's additional information on characters and events in general, which is great.
The topics under each section (and subsection) are not in alphabetical order, but provided in a cohesive manner. The information flows well.
She begins with a timeline, which had my eyes glaze over, but also helped focus on specific information.
First-hand accounts in each main section in the perfect voices of the characters give even more credence to the book.
History & Holocrons
~ Yoda is literally 900 years old. I find that humorous yet I did an eye roll.
The Jedi
~ I really like the peaceful teachings of the past through Jedi like Odan-Urr and Bodo Baas. I'm reminded of Paul's letters in the Bible. The repercussions of the Jedi in government is like church officials in real life. The blatant parallels between Jedi teachings and Christianity are phenomenal. I went into total geek mode.
~ We learn why Jedi only turned to training beings from infancy and not as older children/adults.
~ The Potentium may have been a Sith scheme to subvert Jedi teachings.
Huh. Like....how the devil happens to be in "good" options that, on the surface, seem to help people?
Sometimes the truth is woven in lies.
~ I like the emphasis that the Force flows THROUGH the Jedi, not from them.
~ I don't know if I knew of waterproof vs. non-waterproof lightsabers. That information was neat.
~ Getting past one's own created images of self and pretense opens them to the Force. They can't sculpt the Force; they're sculpted by the Force. This relates yet again to God and the Holy Spirit.
~ I love learned of the seven forms and Vaapad. The images accompanying them are fantastic.
The Dark Side
~ The history of the dark side is fascinating.
~ I like the perspective of there being four stages of the Dark Side. It's interesting to see how many things are from one's point-of-view: evil, redemption, truth, etc.
~ Mara's past is wonderful to read
~ I feel like Kyp's entry on Exar Kun was randomly cut off.
The Sith
~ The possible etymology of "Darth" is so interesting.
~ It's really interesting yet eerie to see how Sith tracked levels of Force ability. The book also explains who can even train on Korriban.
~ Ah, I have to agree with what Revan says as a Sith: The Force changes and transforms a person. As hesitant as I am to make this connection (though Revan twists this to a Sithly meaning), it's exactly like what religion does.
~ I actually liked the history we got about Dooku's past and his [confusing] reason for leaving the Jedi. And how he knows Fett.
~ Sith alchemy is TERRIFYING.
~ The Dark Side Compendium is an intriguing set of books
Other Force Using Organizations
I knew some of these organizations, but not all. I feel like I should have known more. All the books and comics blend together.
The Chosen One
I really like how different people told of the various events surrounding Anakin's life.
The Afterword is a wonderful setup to the Legacy comics.
February 11, 2022
The "Essential Guide" series were reference books that started appearing in 1995 and had what amounted to three generations. They covered things like characters, alien species, planets, droids and a chronology. The first generation covered things up through 2001 with the last of that generation covering Episode I. The second covered things from Episode II with the first through Episode III with the last few.
This book, Jedi vs Sith, was the first of the third generation of essential guides. It covers the history of the Jedi, the Jedi order itself, the Dark Side, the Sith, other force-user groups and a chapter deditcated to Anakin/Vader. Most of the book is written from an in-universe POV. Be aware that, due to the publication date, all of this occurrs in the Legends universe. It covers the bulk of the Star Wars timeline at that point with the novel Legacy of the Force: Inferno being the events of the "present". A good book on it's own, the other big draw is the artwork scattered throughout the book depicting various scenes from the films, novels, comics and games. Personally, my favorite pieces are the ones done by Chris Trevas, but that said, they're all good. For those interested in the Jedi and Sith, this is a great place to jump in.
This book, Jedi vs Sith, was the first of the third generation of essential guides. It covers the history of the Jedi, the Jedi order itself, the Dark Side, the Sith, other force-user groups and a chapter deditcated to Anakin/Vader. Most of the book is written from an in-universe POV. Be aware that, due to the publication date, all of this occurrs in the Legends universe. It covers the bulk of the Star Wars timeline at that point with the novel Legacy of the Force: Inferno being the events of the "present". A good book on it's own, the other big draw is the artwork scattered throughout the book depicting various scenes from the films, novels, comics and games. Personally, my favorite pieces are the ones done by Chris Trevas, but that said, they're all good. For those interested in the Jedi and Sith, this is a great place to jump in.
February 21, 2025
Bless the EU's lore masters. Think stories like Legacy of the Force portrayed the setting in a shallow way? Here's third rate EU side character Tionne Solusar providing an account of Jedi, Sith, and the Force, set at around the same time as Inferno. Suddenly she's more relevant than she'd ever been, and the era finally feels tangible. Suddenly, it's no longer this insular dead branch of the setting.
Jedi vs. Sith (no relation with the comic) is fiction just as much as it is non-fiction. With that, the information presented will never be outdated - oh, they wrote some stories later down the timeline? Well, this is explicitly before that. There's a new book or comic that details a character, faction, or era we'd never seen before? Well, Tionne evidently didn't know about it. Do I mind the post-2005 EU's approach to Vergere and the NJO? Yes, I do, and it's a core part of this release. But that's okay because of course Tionne would think that in 40 ABY. Both for comfort and in truth I have to approach every POV we see here as merely the subjective truth.
Admittedly, I would have liked for this sourcebook to go more metaphysical and truly delve into the themes, Eastern and Jungian, that make this franchise what it is - or should be. But, again, the framing means I can't get too mad at it for not doing that. I can always just rewatch Empire or reread Traitor, I guess.
Jedi vs. Sith (no relation with the comic) is fiction just as much as it is non-fiction. With that, the information presented will never be outdated - oh, they wrote some stories later down the timeline? Well, this is explicitly before that. There's a new book or comic that details a character, faction, or era we'd never seen before? Well, Tionne evidently didn't know about it. Do I mind the post-2005 EU's approach to Vergere and the NJO? Yes, I do, and it's a core part of this release. But that's okay because of course Tionne would think that in 40 ABY. Both for comfort and in truth I have to approach every POV we see here as merely the subjective truth.
Admittedly, I would have liked for this sourcebook to go more metaphysical and truly delve into the themes, Eastern and Jungian, that make this franchise what it is - or should be. But, again, the framing means I can't get too mad at it for not doing that. I can always just rewatch Empire or reread Traitor, I guess.
June 30, 2020
A good entry on the Jedi and the Sith
It's a good book well sourced and well written - it's a shame a lot of the content is now non-canon - as it's way better than a lot of what is. I have it four stars as it's occasionally not detailed enough and while it does add some new info mainly presents info from other sources - which to be fair is it's main goal (and is successful at this). Great illustrations - some liberties though
It's a good book well sourced and well written - it's a shame a lot of the content is now non-canon - as it's way better than a lot of what is. I have it four stars as it's occasionally not detailed enough and while it does add some new info mainly presents info from other sources - which to be fair is it's main goal (and is successful at this). Great illustrations - some liberties though
January 13, 2019
Oh, this is definitely a great look into the Jedi and Sith. Mind you, that a lot of this is no longer considered canon since it comes before Disney took over, but still, it's a great look at who and what the Jedi or Sith are, what they can do, their history, what the force can do - just a bunch of great stuff like that!
August 6, 2022
It is too bad some of what’s in this book is no longer considered canon. To sort out what is and what is not, I had to compare to other sources. Thankful for the SW wiki for sure. Anyway, a fun read with great illustrations to continue my Star Wars renaissance.
June 11, 2019
Spoilers for books that take place late in the timeline, so I probably shouldn't have read this until then. Still, a nice book and a stepping stone in the Star Wars Reading Order.
May 20, 2020
This is such a GREAT book. I dare say it is my 3rd most prized Star Wars book behind The Essential Reader's companion by Pablo Hidalgo and the original Thrawn Trilogy by Timothy Zahn
July 28, 2025
The cope shykrill story gives me chills to this day
October 12, 2013
Coming in at a heavy 231 pages, Star Wars: The Essential guide to the Force offers a very large overview of the history of the Force and the people who shaped our understanding of it. Here is a list of what the book offers.
Contents
1- History and holocrons - Covers the history of Holocrons, Significant battles
2- The Jedi - Jedi evolution, Force-sensitive abilities, Jedi spirits, Detecting Jedi powers, The Force as a source of energy, Force anomalies, Lightsabers
3- The Dark Side - Dark Jedi. Dark side disciples, Under Exar Kun's influence, Luke Skywalker on the Dark Side
4- The Sith - The Darth title, Gatekeeper of the Telos holocron, The Dark Side compendium
5- Other Force-using organizations
6- The Chosen One
PROS:
1- The quality of both the paper and the printing is outstanding.
2- The images, both artistic drawings for the book and the images that were done for the comic books, are great.
3- The book covers a wide array of both historical and personal events that formed the Jedi order and the Sith.
4- The writing, which is in first-person, gives the reader a more personal connection to the words on the page.
5- Gives the reader a glimpse into the future of the franchise with information that is beyond the current novels.
6- Covers more than just the Jedi and the Sith. The book delves into more information of lesser known characters.
7- Gives information on technology, teachings and religions of both the Sith and Jedi.
CONS:
1- Doesn't give any more information into what the Force truly is. It has been described as a religion and/or a practice. It would have been nice to learn more of the science or faith behind the mystical power that surrounds us all.
Contents
1- History and holocrons - Covers the history of Holocrons, Significant battles
2- The Jedi - Jedi evolution, Force-sensitive abilities, Jedi spirits, Detecting Jedi powers, The Force as a source of energy, Force anomalies, Lightsabers
3- The Dark Side - Dark Jedi. Dark side disciples, Under Exar Kun's influence, Luke Skywalker on the Dark Side
4- The Sith - The Darth title, Gatekeeper of the Telos holocron, The Dark Side compendium
5- Other Force-using organizations
6- The Chosen One
PROS:
1- The quality of both the paper and the printing is outstanding.
2- The images, both artistic drawings for the book and the images that were done for the comic books, are great.
3- The book covers a wide array of both historical and personal events that formed the Jedi order and the Sith.
4- The writing, which is in first-person, gives the reader a more personal connection to the words on the page.
5- Gives the reader a glimpse into the future of the franchise with information that is beyond the current novels.
6- Covers more than just the Jedi and the Sith. The book delves into more information of lesser known characters.
7- Gives information on technology, teachings and religions of both the Sith and Jedi.
CONS:
1- Doesn't give any more information into what the Force truly is. It has been described as a religion and/or a practice. It would have been nice to learn more of the science or faith behind the mystical power that surrounds us all.
June 21, 2010
An interesting compilation of Sith and Jedi "history". Written as though a Jedi historian compiled it (Tionne Solusar, for those who are in the know), the book covers a general Force history and then delves into particular Force related topics. It also includes stories that are up to date for the time that it was written; however, the insane pace of the Star Wars publishing industry means that there is already substantial back story not included in this volume.
The highlight of this book, however, are the beautifully done illustrations. The pictures included for this volume are clear and just as you mentally "see" the characters as you read from the EU books. They're outstandingly presented and really deserved a book all of their own.
Overall, this is a good reference book for keeping track of what the Jedi, Sith, and other Force users are doing at any given point in Star Wars history, and includes well written information on Force-related artifacts and powers. A must for any Star Wars Expanded Universe fan.
The highlight of this book, however, are the beautifully done illustrations. The pictures included for this volume are clear and just as you mentally "see" the characters as you read from the EU books. They're outstandingly presented and really deserved a book all of their own.
Overall, this is a good reference book for keeping track of what the Jedi, Sith, and other Force users are doing at any given point in Star Wars history, and includes well written information on Force-related artifacts and powers. A must for any Star Wars Expanded Universe fan.
July 25, 2015
Jedi vs. Sith is an in-universe collection of histories, treatises, and letters painting a vivid picture of the warrior-monk Jedi and their despotic nemeses, the Sith.
It did a good job presenting different pieces by different in universe authors. It also does well to tie together the vast swath of time covering 5100 years in significant detail.
Where I felt it feel flat is that it suffers from being very jarring. The longest pieces do not exceed 3 pages and as a result there is very little flow, hence why it took me 2 months to push through. Also it suffers from the fact that Star Wars (until recently) is always growing. The book can make no mentions of anything from after it is published such as important events from the Old Republic online game, the end of the Legacy of the Force and the entire Fate of the Jedi book series.
That said, still a nice snapshot but lacks significant enough detail to provide anything new to a die-hard fan, and therefore just repeats snippets of things you have likely read before.
It did a good job presenting different pieces by different in universe authors. It also does well to tie together the vast swath of time covering 5100 years in significant detail.
Where I felt it feel flat is that it suffers from being very jarring. The longest pieces do not exceed 3 pages and as a result there is very little flow, hence why it took me 2 months to push through. Also it suffers from the fact that Star Wars (until recently) is always growing. The book can make no mentions of anything from after it is published such as important events from the Old Republic online game, the end of the Legacy of the Force and the entire Fate of the Jedi book series.
That said, still a nice snapshot but lacks significant enough detail to provide anything new to a die-hard fan, and therefore just repeats snippets of things you have likely read before.
September 25, 2016
Yes, yes, I know none of this is canon now. But that doesn't mean one can't enjoy the book for what it is --a very detailed chronicle of Star Wars history (or legends, are they're being called now). This book has everything --from early "history" of the galaxy's beginnings and everything regarding the Force and its users, to the tale of the fall of the Republic and the rise of the Empire, and even a very interesting text regarding Anakin Skywalker. It's engrossing to read what characters such as Luke or even Leia thought of Anakin --we even get to read what happened to Kister during the fall of the Empire!
There's some information I considered to be quite repetitive, but in general, this is a perfect book for Star Wars die-hards; I just hope the new canon, the new novels and comics and video games and yes, the new movies, will be able to live up to these standards. (Although I'm still not a fan of the Yuuzhan Vong....)
There's some information I considered to be quite repetitive, but in general, this is a perfect book for Star Wars die-hards; I just hope the new canon, the new novels and comics and video games and yes, the new movies, will be able to live up to these standards. (Although I'm still not a fan of the Yuuzhan Vong....)
Read
July 23, 2008Yes I am actually reading this with my son. There is soooo much more to the Star Wars world than I ever thought! Justice got a bunch of X-mas $ and I thought hw would surely by a gameboy (he lost his) and yet when we were at Barnes & Noble he really wanted to spend it all on Star Wars books, he's been off reading for days. You cannot even imagine how proud I am. I guess the reason I read the Star wars stuff too is so we can have "deep discussions" about something that really interests him, that and I'm kinda a star wars geek too I guess ;>
July 24, 2014
Within this book, it journeys deep into the past of both Jedi and Sith. And follows the events of Malak and Revan, the events leading up to Order 66 and even the events after the fall of the empire. Within this book you will find more information beyond that of what can be see in the movie trilogy (Original and Prequel) find out about the working of the force, what is used in the construction of a lightsaber. And the various fighting styles of a lightsaber swordman. I recommend you read this book if you are a true star wars fan.
June 16, 2019
This was a wonderfully informative, interesting book to read. It chronicled the history of the Force, and showed it from both sides, light and dark. I think both sides got equal representation and discussion, which was good. We learned about Force users, their tools and much more. The illustrations were amazingly done as well.
June 23, 2011
I had to knock one star off because I didn't like the organization of the book. I was expecting more of a faceoff of sorts between presenting facts on the Jedi and on the Sith. But the illustrations are amazing--which is nice.
July 21, 2011
This book is very informative, almost too much so at times. For the average fan just wanting to beef up their knowledge it might seem overwhelming. However, if you are looking to get into some serious history and information then this book is a great source of information.
June 26, 2020
10 Second Review:
The illustrations are fantastic, and are easily the most impressive part of this book. Characters who don't receive many official pictures get some much needed exposure here. Why Kyp looking like a cabbage patch kid tho? DOING ME DIRTY.
The illustrations are fantastic, and are easily the most impressive part of this book. Characters who don't receive many official pictures get some much needed exposure here. Why Kyp looking like a cabbage patch kid tho? DOING ME DIRTY.
February 7, 2015
Holy SITH this was awesome!
If you are a Star Wars fan, this is a MUST-READ! Who gives a crap if this stuff ain't Canon any more? This is just to good not to be read.
The Force is strong in this one!
If you are a Star Wars fan, this is a MUST-READ! Who gives a crap if this stuff ain't Canon any more? This is just to good not to be read.
The Force is strong in this one!
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