What do you think?
Rate this book
Star Wars anthologies
Star Wars: Life Day Treasury - Holiday Stories From a Galaxy Far, Far Away
Cozy up with this collection of holiday-themed midwinter stories from throughout the galaxy far, far away!
From George Mann and Grant Griffin, the same team that brought us the stunning Star Wars: Myths & Fables and Star Wars: Dark Legends--with the addition of best-selling author Cavan Scott--this collection of eight myths and fables told around winter fires and high-tech heating pods across the galaxy will bring holiday joy to young and old Star Wars fans alike. From Jedi in the city to Ewoks in the forest, from Wookiees to droids, in this charming collection you will find holiday feasts, ghostly apparitions, snowy adventures, and much more. Ultimately these are stories of hope in the darkest of days. Of family, found and otherwise. Of kindness. And of love.
This is a holiday treasury that will be long remembered....
Complete your Star Wars collection with
Star Wars: Dark Legends
Star Wars: Myths & Fables
From George Mann and Grant Griffin, the same team that brought us the stunning Star Wars: Myths & Fables and Star Wars: Dark Legends--with the addition of best-selling author Cavan Scott--this collection of eight myths and fables told around winter fires and high-tech heating pods across the galaxy will bring holiday joy to young and old Star Wars fans alike. From Jedi in the city to Ewoks in the forest, from Wookiees to droids, in this charming collection you will find holiday feasts, ghostly apparitions, snowy adventures, and much more. Ultimately these are stories of hope in the darkest of days. Of family, found and otherwise. Of kindness. And of love.
This is a holiday treasury that will be long remembered....
Complete your Star Wars collection with
Star Wars: Dark Legends
Star Wars: Myths & Fables
180 pages, Hardcover
First published September 7, 2021
71 people are currently reading
474 people want to read
About the author
George Mann
368 books675 followersGeorge Mann is an author and editor, primarily in genre fiction. He was born in Darlington, County Durham in 1978.
A former editor of Outland, Mann is the author of The Human Abstract, and more recently The Affinity Bridge and The Osiris Ritual in his Newbury and Hobbes detective series, set in an alternate Britain, and Ghosts of Manhattan, set in the same universe some decades later.
He wrote the Time Hunter novella "The Severed Man", and co-wrote the series finale, Child of Time.
He has also written numerous short stories, plus Doctor Who and Sherlock Holmes audiobooks for Big Finish Productions. He has edited a number of anthologies including The Solaris Book of New Science Fiction, The Solaris Book of New Fantasy and a retrospective collection of Sexton Blake stories, Sexton Blake, Detective, with an introduction by Michael Moorcock.
A former editor of Outland, Mann is the author of The Human Abstract, and more recently The Affinity Bridge and The Osiris Ritual in his Newbury and Hobbes detective series, set in an alternate Britain, and Ghosts of Manhattan, set in the same universe some decades later.
He wrote the Time Hunter novella "The Severed Man", and co-wrote the series finale, Child of Time.
He has also written numerous short stories, plus Doctor Who and Sherlock Holmes audiobooks for Big Finish Productions. He has edited a number of anthologies including The Solaris Book of New Science Fiction, The Solaris Book of New Fantasy and a retrospective collection of Sexton Blake stories, Sexton Blake, Detective, with an introduction by Michael Moorcock.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 91 reviews
November 25, 2021
Eight short stories of celebrations and holidays in the Star Wars universe. Also different eras Star Wars.
From a Jedi in the High Republic era learning empathy, two Alerderaan citizens finding themselves on the opposite side of the war, to where Life day began and even the droid savior among other stories.
A good collect with nice illistrations to start every story. A nice hardcover format in holiday colours.
From a Jedi in the High Republic era learning empathy, two Alerderaan citizens finding themselves on the opposite side of the war, to where Life day began and even the droid savior among other stories.
A good collect with nice illistrations to start every story. A nice hardcover format in holiday colours.
December 31, 2023
A pleasant enough Star Wars anthology that spans eras, and that you will likely forget the moment the warmth of the Holiday Life Day eggnog fades.
Reviewer's Note: I've never seen it, and I'm OK with that.
Reviewer's Note: I've never seen it, and I'm OK with that.
January 1, 2022
Perfect anthology for a peaceful winter day
August 27, 2021
A very happy Life Day to you! Or Solstice Tide! Or Winter’s Heart!
Whatever you find yourself celebrating this year, Star Wars: Life Day Treasury is a worthy addition to your festivities. The third installment in George Mann’s anthologies of myths and tales from the Galaxy Far, Far Away, the Life Day Treasury also features stories by Cavan Scott, the two of them working in tandem to deliver eight stories full of light, life, and holiday cheer.
[READ FULL REVIEW: https://thegeekywaffle.com/home/2021/...]
Each tale is set on a different world, across all the eras we’ve come to know and love. Some are not so clearly defined, while others take place squarely during the High Republic, the Empire’s reign, or in the early days of the New Republic.
A particular highlight for me was the first story, “A Coruscant Solstice”. Not only is it set during the High Republic era, but it stars my favourite Jedi from that time period, Stellan Gios, as he is reminded why it is he does what he does from a person who needs him the most.
Mann and Scott also brilliantly weave older stories from the Star Wars universe into the fabric of this story, with familiar faces from the Star Wars Holiday Special and the Ewoks making appearances for adventures of their own.
But no matter the era, no matter the world or who occupies it, each tale brings with it a familiar aspect of the holidays that any reader will recognize. Spending time with family, the traditions one generation passes on to the next, whether solemn or silly, the giving of gifts. And in one case, the belief in a cloaked, bearded man who travels impossible distances to bring cheer to all, whether or not they believe in him.
But not everything is lighthearted start to finish. One tale was a ghost story was very reminiscent of A Christmas Carol. Another was especially bittersweet - reminding me so much of Claudia Gray’s Lost Stars it hurt - but even then, things are left so open that you think with enough belief in the capacity of others to do good, and do the right thing, there might be some hope after all.
I would also like to take this opportunity to thank the authors for their determination to inject some romance into Star Wars. In more than one story no less, and ranging from puppy love to the more grown-up.
The illustrations by Grant Griffin are, as always, breathtaking. Each radiates the kind of warm, cozy style we might expect from a favourite, well-loved storybook. They set the tone without giving too much away, and to my eye have become completely inextricable from this anthology series.
And if anyone knows where I can get a giant print of that Stellan one, please do let a girl know.
A favourite quote of mine from The Last Jedi goes: “Hope is like the sun. If you only believe in it when you can see it, you’ll never make it through the night”. And hope is exactly what Mann and Scott have delivered here.
When things seem at their bleakest, or a character is at their lowest, there around the corner is just the hope they need to make it through the night. It’s an apt reminder, now more than ever, that although the whole galaxy - or even just the world we live in - can’t be set entirely to rights by the actions of one person, that doesn’t mean that a single person shouldn’t try to make the world right for a friend, a community, or a stranger in need of just a little hope.
I don’t know why people seem to be more receptive to that idea around the holidays, but that seems to just be the way it is. So if you find yourself in need of a touch of hope this Life Day, mixed with a healthy dose of adventure, heart, and Star Wars charm, add Star Wars: Life Day Treasury to your traditions this year.
Star Wars: Life Day Treasury is out September 7, 2021.
Special thanks to Disney Books for the advance copy for review purposes.
Whatever you find yourself celebrating this year, Star Wars: Life Day Treasury is a worthy addition to your festivities. The third installment in George Mann’s anthologies of myths and tales from the Galaxy Far, Far Away, the Life Day Treasury also features stories by Cavan Scott, the two of them working in tandem to deliver eight stories full of light, life, and holiday cheer.
[READ FULL REVIEW: https://thegeekywaffle.com/home/2021/...]
Each tale is set on a different world, across all the eras we’ve come to know and love. Some are not so clearly defined, while others take place squarely during the High Republic, the Empire’s reign, or in the early days of the New Republic.
A particular highlight for me was the first story, “A Coruscant Solstice”. Not only is it set during the High Republic era, but it stars my favourite Jedi from that time period, Stellan Gios, as he is reminded why it is he does what he does from a person who needs him the most.
Mann and Scott also brilliantly weave older stories from the Star Wars universe into the fabric of this story, with familiar faces from the Star Wars Holiday Special and the Ewoks making appearances for adventures of their own.
But no matter the era, no matter the world or who occupies it, each tale brings with it a familiar aspect of the holidays that any reader will recognize. Spending time with family, the traditions one generation passes on to the next, whether solemn or silly, the giving of gifts. And in one case, the belief in a cloaked, bearded man who travels impossible distances to bring cheer to all, whether or not they believe in him.
But not everything is lighthearted start to finish. One tale was a ghost story was very reminiscent of A Christmas Carol. Another was especially bittersweet - reminding me so much of Claudia Gray’s Lost Stars it hurt - but even then, things are left so open that you think with enough belief in the capacity of others to do good, and do the right thing, there might be some hope after all.
I would also like to take this opportunity to thank the authors for their determination to inject some romance into Star Wars. In more than one story no less, and ranging from puppy love to the more grown-up.
The illustrations by Grant Griffin are, as always, breathtaking. Each radiates the kind of warm, cozy style we might expect from a favourite, well-loved storybook. They set the tone without giving too much away, and to my eye have become completely inextricable from this anthology series.
And if anyone knows where I can get a giant print of that Stellan one, please do let a girl know.
A favourite quote of mine from The Last Jedi goes: “Hope is like the sun. If you only believe in it when you can see it, you’ll never make it through the night”. And hope is exactly what Mann and Scott have delivered here.
When things seem at their bleakest, or a character is at their lowest, there around the corner is just the hope they need to make it through the night. It’s an apt reminder, now more than ever, that although the whole galaxy - or even just the world we live in - can’t be set entirely to rights by the actions of one person, that doesn’t mean that a single person shouldn’t try to make the world right for a friend, a community, or a stranger in need of just a little hope.
I don’t know why people seem to be more receptive to that idea around the holidays, but that seems to just be the way it is. So if you find yourself in need of a touch of hope this Life Day, mixed with a healthy dose of adventure, heart, and Star Wars charm, add Star Wars: Life Day Treasury to your traditions this year.
Star Wars: Life Day Treasury is out September 7, 2021.
Special thanks to Disney Books for the advance copy for review purposes.
December 20, 2021
Chewbacca has a son????
September 15, 2021
Family. Friends. Light. Hope.
The Star Wars Life Day Treasury: Holiday Stories From a Galaxy Far, Far Away is a heartfelt gift for every fan of that galaxy, far, far away! A lovely collaboration of holiday stories written by George Mann and Cavan Scott and beautifully illustrated by Grant Griffin, this volume has something to delight fans of every era of Star Wars. From the new High Republic right on through to where it all started, with Chewbacca and his family on Kashyyyk.
We begin with an introduction to the origins of Life Day and other midwinter celebrations. Many with their rich history and traditions are woven into the eight folktales in the book. And others, like the Mon Calamari’s Turning of the Year’s Tide, and the Hutt’s Festival of the Thousand Suns, we’ll have to add to our wish list for a second volume.
There are stories of giving and forgiveness, old friends not forgotten, light in times of darkness, a touch of romance, and lots of snow-filled landscapes. And what holiday collection is complete without a ghost story, a tradition that goes back much further than Charles Dickens’ classic tale.
Artist Grant Griffin dazzles us with his magical illustrations, each a poignant moment from one of the tales, frozen in time. His lovely artwork is a signature feature in this third in a series of Star Wars anthologies. The other two being Star Wars: Myths & Fables and Star Wars Dark Legends.
I found it difficult to pick a favourite story in this hope-filled collection. Every time I finished one, I’d read the next and love that one, too. Although they will all be cherished and reread many times, this passage made me break out in a huge grin...
“Are you missing a relay circuit? How could one human traverse all of Imperial space on one night to visit every droid in existence. It’s preposterous.”
Help me, oh Oil-Bringer! You’re a droid’s only hope…
The Life Day Treasury is a must have for the Star Wars fan in your life. Pick up a holiday mug, your favourite hot cocoa mix and this lovely book for a fabulous gift. It will surely be treasured for years to come.
Five out of five mugs of Bantha Milk Hot Chocolate!
*I invite you to visit my Instagram starting November 1st for a series of Life Day posts inspired by this delightful book.
The Star Wars Life Day Treasury: Holiday Stories From a Galaxy Far, Far Away is a heartfelt gift for every fan of that galaxy, far, far away! A lovely collaboration of holiday stories written by George Mann and Cavan Scott and beautifully illustrated by Grant Griffin, this volume has something to delight fans of every era of Star Wars. From the new High Republic right on through to where it all started, with Chewbacca and his family on Kashyyyk.
We begin with an introduction to the origins of Life Day and other midwinter celebrations. Many with their rich history and traditions are woven into the eight folktales in the book. And others, like the Mon Calamari’s Turning of the Year’s Tide, and the Hutt’s Festival of the Thousand Suns, we’ll have to add to our wish list for a second volume.
There are stories of giving and forgiveness, old friends not forgotten, light in times of darkness, a touch of romance, and lots of snow-filled landscapes. And what holiday collection is complete without a ghost story, a tradition that goes back much further than Charles Dickens’ classic tale.
Artist Grant Griffin dazzles us with his magical illustrations, each a poignant moment from one of the tales, frozen in time. His lovely artwork is a signature feature in this third in a series of Star Wars anthologies. The other two being Star Wars: Myths & Fables and Star Wars Dark Legends.
I found it difficult to pick a favourite story in this hope-filled collection. Every time I finished one, I’d read the next and love that one, too. Although they will all be cherished and reread many times, this passage made me break out in a huge grin...
“Are you missing a relay circuit? How could one human traverse all of Imperial space on one night to visit every droid in existence. It’s preposterous.”
Help me, oh Oil-Bringer! You’re a droid’s only hope…
The Life Day Treasury is a must have for the Star Wars fan in your life. Pick up a holiday mug, your favourite hot cocoa mix and this lovely book for a fabulous gift. It will surely be treasured for years to come.
Five out of five mugs of Bantha Milk Hot Chocolate!
*I invite you to visit my Instagram starting November 1st for a series of Life Day posts inspired by this delightful book.
December 26, 2023
I'm going to round this up from 3.5 stars, as it has the usual mix of the memorable and the underwhelming...but when it does it score bullseyes, the results are exceptionally first rate and magical. As good a book as anything you'll read for a Lucasverse yuletide celebration.
December 24, 2024
"It's message was clear: no matter where you were from or what you looked like, you could share in the hope that tomorrow would be better and that, if you love and cared for others, whatever your differences, you would ensure that the darkness never extinguished the light."
November 20, 2021
SOME HISTORY:
On November 17, 1978, CBS aired The Star Wars Holiday Special. Directed by Steve Binder, it was the first Star Wars spin-off film, set between the events of A New Hope and The Empire Strikes Back, and received minimal input from George Lucas beyond the idea to build the narrative around Chewbacca’s family. Lucas was unhappy with the final product, and the special was universally lambasted by pretty much everyone. As a result, it has never been re-aired in the US or officially released on home video. However, elements of the television special survive into the new Star Wars canon, with the Aftermath trilogy by Chuck Wendig reintroducing Chewie’s wife and son, Solo: A Star Wars Story referencing Chewie’s father, and The Mandalorian mentioning the Wookiee holiday of Life Day.
Life Day is like Thanksgiving, Christmas, and the Winter Solstice all rolled up into one, and Star Wars fans still commemorate Life Day on November 17.
A BRIEF SUMMARY:
The Life Day Treasury features eight stories from George Mann and Cavan Scott (with illustrations by Grant Griffin) that depict different winter holidays within the Star Wars universe, across various time periods. Read about Ewoks, Wookiees, droids, and more!
RECOMMENDED AGE GROUP:
The book's marketing says that the Life Day Treasury is meant for ages 8-12, but I think it’s appropriate for all ages--children could read it, adults could read it, but children might get more enjoyment out of it.
MY FAVORITES:
With eight short stories, I figure that I will enjoy some more than others. And that was definitely the case here, as I had three runaway favorites: “An Old Hope,” about droids stuck on a Jawa sandcrawler hoping for the appearance of The Oilbringer; “The Kroolok,” which follows Wicket the Ewok and his friends on a night-time quest for a mythical creatures (and if you’ve seen the old Ewoks cartoon, you should recognize most of the characters!); and “The Tree of Life,” which revolves around Chewie’s family’s observance of Life Day and Lumpy/Waroo’s conflicted feelings about the holiday and his family.
THE MEH:
When I first saw the cover for Life Day Treasury, I thought that all the stories would take place during the High Republic era, but only the first story (“A Coruscant Solstice”) is set then. Most of the stories are set after Revenge of the Sith or during the Rebellion era, and “The Tree of Life” is the farthest chronologically, being set sometime after Return of the Jedi. You won’t find any Sequel-era stories here.
The stories don’t just focus on Life Day, but on other celebrations as well, and I found some of the holidays integrated into the story better than others. “Reflection Day” tries to introduce a Jedha holiday as well as a romance subplot, and there’s just not enough pages to cover both. “The KIndling” also felt like a story where the tale being told by Fanya the Twi’lek felt shoehorned into the Rebel escape subplot.
In “The Song of Winter’s Heart,” I didn’t like how the Imperial Alderaanian and the Rebel Alderaanian were depicted as fighting the same fight: one is on the side of an evil Empire, it’s not the same! It also gave me WWI Christmas Armistice vibes, though, which I appreciated.
MY VERDICT:
I think that the Life Day Treasury is worth checking out, if you’re looking for short holiday stories within the Star Wars universe. The beauty of short story collections is that (usually) there’s a story for everyone, and these are quick reads with lovely illustrations.
My YouTube review: https://youtu.be/xqpPPVNpk8Q
Illustrations by Grant Griffin: https://imgur.com/a/ajwFSdQ
On November 17, 1978, CBS aired The Star Wars Holiday Special. Directed by Steve Binder, it was the first Star Wars spin-off film, set between the events of A New Hope and The Empire Strikes Back, and received minimal input from George Lucas beyond the idea to build the narrative around Chewbacca’s family. Lucas was unhappy with the final product, and the special was universally lambasted by pretty much everyone. As a result, it has never been re-aired in the US or officially released on home video. However, elements of the television special survive into the new Star Wars canon, with the Aftermath trilogy by Chuck Wendig reintroducing Chewie’s wife and son, Solo: A Star Wars Story referencing Chewie’s father, and The Mandalorian mentioning the Wookiee holiday of Life Day.
Life Day is like Thanksgiving, Christmas, and the Winter Solstice all rolled up into one, and Star Wars fans still commemorate Life Day on November 17.
A BRIEF SUMMARY:
The Life Day Treasury features eight stories from George Mann and Cavan Scott (with illustrations by Grant Griffin) that depict different winter holidays within the Star Wars universe, across various time periods. Read about Ewoks, Wookiees, droids, and more!
RECOMMENDED AGE GROUP:
The book's marketing says that the Life Day Treasury is meant for ages 8-12, but I think it’s appropriate for all ages--children could read it, adults could read it, but children might get more enjoyment out of it.
MY FAVORITES:
With eight short stories, I figure that I will enjoy some more than others. And that was definitely the case here, as I had three runaway favorites: “An Old Hope,” about droids stuck on a Jawa sandcrawler hoping for the appearance of The Oilbringer; “The Kroolok,” which follows Wicket the Ewok and his friends on a night-time quest for a mythical creatures (and if you’ve seen the old Ewoks cartoon, you should recognize most of the characters!); and “The Tree of Life,” which revolves around Chewie’s family’s observance of Life Day and Lumpy/Waroo’s conflicted feelings about the holiday and his family.
THE MEH:
When I first saw the cover for Life Day Treasury, I thought that all the stories would take place during the High Republic era, but only the first story (“A Coruscant Solstice”) is set then. Most of the stories are set after Revenge of the Sith or during the Rebellion era, and “The Tree of Life” is the farthest chronologically, being set sometime after Return of the Jedi. You won’t find any Sequel-era stories here.
The stories don’t just focus on Life Day, but on other celebrations as well, and I found some of the holidays integrated into the story better than others. “Reflection Day” tries to introduce a Jedha holiday as well as a romance subplot, and there’s just not enough pages to cover both. “The KIndling” also felt like a story where the tale being told by Fanya the Twi’lek felt shoehorned into the Rebel escape subplot.
In “The Song of Winter’s Heart,” I didn’t like how the Imperial Alderaanian and the Rebel Alderaanian were depicted as fighting the same fight: one is on the side of an evil Empire, it’s not the same! It also gave me WWI Christmas Armistice vibes, though, which I appreciated.
MY VERDICT:
I think that the Life Day Treasury is worth checking out, if you’re looking for short holiday stories within the Star Wars universe. The beauty of short story collections is that (usually) there’s a story for everyone, and these are quick reads with lovely illustrations.
My YouTube review: https://youtu.be/xqpPPVNpk8Q
Illustrations by Grant Griffin: https://imgur.com/a/ajwFSdQ
January 3, 2026
This is such a fun collection of stories set in the Star Wars galaxy but with the spirit of the holidays! If you're a Star Wars fan looking for something festive, this collection is easy to read in a sitting and has some gems. There are some fun cameos of characters in The High Republic as well as classic Star Wars characters we know and love.
The collection is intended for a younger audience, so it makes sense that the writing is fairly simplistic, but I would have enjoyed just a bit more depth (which I definitely think is possible while keeping things at a child-friendly reading level). “The Song of Winter’s Heart” is my favorite in the collection, as the character dynamic is very sweet and the (albeit slightly ambiguous) queer representation is age-appropriate yet heartwarming. A close second is “The Tree of Life,” as we get to see some of the best Star Wars characters in a different context, and the overall theme of Life Day comes across so well.
This collection is perfect for getting festive across the galaxy, and it would be great for any kid looking for more holiday-themed Star Wars content.
If you’re curious as to more specifics, here are my ratings for each story:
A Coruscant Solstice: 4/5
An Old Hope: 3.5/5
The Kindling: 3.75/5
The Kroolok: 4.5/5
The Song of Winter's Heart: 4.75/5
The Spirit of Life Day: 4.5/5
Reflection Day: 3.5/5
The Tree of Life: 4.75/5
The collection is intended for a younger audience, so it makes sense that the writing is fairly simplistic, but I would have enjoyed just a bit more depth (which I definitely think is possible while keeping things at a child-friendly reading level). “The Song of Winter’s Heart” is my favorite in the collection, as the character dynamic is very sweet and the (albeit slightly ambiguous) queer representation is age-appropriate yet heartwarming. A close second is “The Tree of Life,” as we get to see some of the best Star Wars characters in a different context, and the overall theme of Life Day comes across so well.
This collection is perfect for getting festive across the galaxy, and it would be great for any kid looking for more holiday-themed Star Wars content.
If you’re curious as to more specifics, here are my ratings for each story:
A Coruscant Solstice: 4/5
An Old Hope: 3.5/5
The Kindling: 3.75/5
The Kroolok: 4.5/5
The Song of Winter's Heart: 4.75/5
The Spirit of Life Day: 4.5/5
Reflection Day: 3.5/5
The Tree of Life: 4.75/5
December 11, 2022
A few months ago on a website far, far away...
It is a dark time for the Terrible Book Club. Although 2021 is nearly over, Terriblo still pursues them through the far reaches of time and space. Evading the dreaded Christmas Cheer, our two intrepid readers - Paris and Chris - have hidden away in the icy enclave of New England. However, the evil lord Terriblo, obsessed with torturing the young readers, has dispatched thousands of terrible holiday books into the far reaches of bookstores and libraries….
It is a dark time for the Terrible Book Club. Although 2021 is nearly over, Terriblo still pursues them through the far reaches of time and space. Evading the dreaded Christmas Cheer, our two intrepid readers - Paris and Chris - have hidden away in the icy enclave of New England. However, the evil lord Terriblo, obsessed with torturing the young readers, has dispatched thousands of terrible holiday books into the far reaches of bookstores and libraries….
December 27, 2023
I read like 1.5 stories in this. The first story is a Star Wars "Christmas Shoes" and it's pretty off-putting. Then the ewok story is in English! After I watched 2 hours of wookiees growling at each other with no subtitles. Commit to the bit.
September 3, 2021
Full review coming next week on starwarsnewsnet.com but this collection is beautiful. Some of the most touching, hopeful Star Wars stories I’ve read in a long time. Wish there was a 4.75 option for stars!
December 20, 2021
Beautiful collection of stories from different places and times in the galaxy! I loved the illustrations and the messages in each story.
December 16, 2022
Fun and Christmassy in a very Star Wars way. Definitely recommend for Star Wars fans! My favorites were the droid and wookie ones.
March 1, 2022
An interesting collection of Star Wars Universe Holiday celebration short stories. An easy and fun read that anyone can enjoy.
December 20, 2021
A must read/have for Star Wars fans!
September 28, 2021
As the summer heat dies off and autumn begins to creep back into our lives, thoughts have started to turn towards the wintery holiday seasons ahead of us. With holidays on our mind, Disney Books has released the perfect collection of stories to get fans in the holiday spirit with Star Wars: Life Day Treasury. (READ MORE: https://yourmoneygeek.com/review-star...)
For those who may not be aware of Life Day, it’s a very special tradition that got its start among the Wookiees on Kashyyyk, before spreading around the galaxy from the Core Worlds out into the Outer Rim. Fortunately, George Mann and Cavan Scott have given a nice little introduction to the holiday at the start of the book, to bring readers up to speed with this tradition.
But Life Day isn’t the only holiday represented in the Life Day Treasury, as even droids have holiday stories that have been passed down to them, just the same as the Ewoks on Endor who celebrate the White Fall. Traditions like these are the backbone of culture and it’s exciting to see Star Wars delve into some of the holidays celebrated around a galaxy far, far away.
George Mann has been the architect of some of the most delightful short-story collections that flesh out the rich myths and fables that make up the cultural experience within the canon of Star Wars. His Myths & Fables and Dark Legends are must-reads for Star Wars fans who are desperate to learn more about the stories that their favorite characters have grown up with.
In addition to Mann and Scott, Star Wars: LIfe Day Treasury has been beautifully illustrated by Grant Griffin, who previously illustrated Mann’s Dark Legends. His art evokes thoughts of the holiday stories told to readers when they were children, the perfect combination of whimsy and realism.
While Stellan Gios, a Jedi who was introduced in The High Republic adorns the cover of the collection, the stories within are not bound to that era of storytelling. In fact, it spans the full breadth of history we already know about Star Wars. Friends on opposite sides of the war between the Empire and the Republic reuniting to reminisce about holidays past, Chewbacca and Han visiting Kashyyyk for Life Day, and Twi’leks clinging to their holiday traditions during dark times on Aaloth.
Life Day Treasury is a series of eight short stories that function as vignettes, providing readers with little glimpses into the special moments created by the terrestrial holidays in their favorite galaxy far, far away. It’s the perfect tie-in for any Star Wars era you love and will certainly make your own holidays a little brighter if you read them with a cozy blanket, a slow-burning fire, and a cup of hot cocoa — especially when Mann and Scott have already created tales that so perfectly encapsulate the warmth and joy of the holiday season.
For those who may not be aware of Life Day, it’s a very special tradition that got its start among the Wookiees on Kashyyyk, before spreading around the galaxy from the Core Worlds out into the Outer Rim. Fortunately, George Mann and Cavan Scott have given a nice little introduction to the holiday at the start of the book, to bring readers up to speed with this tradition.
But Life Day isn’t the only holiday represented in the Life Day Treasury, as even droids have holiday stories that have been passed down to them, just the same as the Ewoks on Endor who celebrate the White Fall. Traditions like these are the backbone of culture and it’s exciting to see Star Wars delve into some of the holidays celebrated around a galaxy far, far away.
George Mann has been the architect of some of the most delightful short-story collections that flesh out the rich myths and fables that make up the cultural experience within the canon of Star Wars. His Myths & Fables and Dark Legends are must-reads for Star Wars fans who are desperate to learn more about the stories that their favorite characters have grown up with.
In addition to Mann and Scott, Star Wars: LIfe Day Treasury has been beautifully illustrated by Grant Griffin, who previously illustrated Mann’s Dark Legends. His art evokes thoughts of the holiday stories told to readers when they were children, the perfect combination of whimsy and realism.
While Stellan Gios, a Jedi who was introduced in The High Republic adorns the cover of the collection, the stories within are not bound to that era of storytelling. In fact, it spans the full breadth of history we already know about Star Wars. Friends on opposite sides of the war between the Empire and the Republic reuniting to reminisce about holidays past, Chewbacca and Han visiting Kashyyyk for Life Day, and Twi’leks clinging to their holiday traditions during dark times on Aaloth.
Life Day Treasury is a series of eight short stories that function as vignettes, providing readers with little glimpses into the special moments created by the terrestrial holidays in their favorite galaxy far, far away. It’s the perfect tie-in for any Star Wars era you love and will certainly make your own holidays a little brighter if you read them with a cozy blanket, a slow-burning fire, and a cup of hot cocoa — especially when Mann and Scott have already created tales that so perfectly encapsulate the warmth and joy of the holiday season.
December 31, 2024
Borrowed from my son, this collection of Star Wars universe holiday stories is a fun diversion. They are Life Day stories, which is a galaxy-wide celebration set in the winter with celebrations & gift-giving. Each one has a different take on the celebrations with some familiar characters making an appearance. Lots of heart-warming stories that should make an annual appearance in your Christmas reading!
June 2, 2022
Heartwarming Holiday Tales
This is a wonderful collection of holiday themed stories in a galaxy far, far, away. Some familiar faces make appearances in charming tales of holidays and what they mean to various beings and planets. My favorite was the first tale, A Coruscant Solstice, it features one of my favorite Jedi, Stellan Gios. I'm sad there isn't an audio book version.
This is a wonderful collection of holiday themed stories in a galaxy far, far, away. Some familiar faces make appearances in charming tales of holidays and what they mean to various beings and planets. My favorite was the first tale, A Coruscant Solstice, it features one of my favorite Jedi, Stellan Gios. I'm sad there isn't an audio book version.
January 1, 2026
George Mann and Cavan Scott present Star Wars stories set during the Wookiee holiday known as Life Day. Other than Boba Fett, Life Day has become the most enduring contribution to the Star Wars universe to come from the infamous 1978 Star Wars Holiday Special. This treasury of tales show how different cultures and solar systems celebrate Life Day in regards to the winter solstice. As each populated planet has their winter solstice begin at different times, potentially you could celebrate the holidays every day. Coruscant, Tattioone, Alderaan, even the forest moon of Endor celebrate the beginning of winter and the New hope of warm, fertile days ahead.
I like that this book is set during different periods of time. The story on Coruscant occurs during the days of the Old Republic. My favorite story, 'The Song of Winter's Heart' takes place during the early days of the rebellion, showing how a pair of best friends can grow apart on different sides of the political spectrum, with one becoming a storm trooper and the other a rebel, and yet, the shared cultural heritage of the holidays can make even the worst of enemies brothers once more.
I also like that a majority of these stories star established characters. While my favorite tale had all-new characters, whom I hope to one day encounter again, other stories feature some of the most beloved characters across all 3 trilogies. Obi-Wan Kenobi, Wicket and the rest of his tribe are amongst those who appear. You won't get Darth Vader, Luke Skywalker or Princess Leia. But as you could probably guess, Chewbacca and his family, including son Lumpy, star in the Life Day story set on Kashyyyk that closes out this collection. Yup! Han Solo is there too!
Some characters from before Episode I, who have been established in the pages of either Dark Horse or Marvel comics publications appear here too. One such character is Jedi Knight Stellan Gios, who appears on the cover. I only know that Stellan is an established character thanks to a Google search. I'm wondering if he was meant to be based on actor David Tennant. Because that's who he looks like in profile in the beautifully painted cover image by Grant Griffin. All of the artist's paintings were fantastic and added greatly to the intended theme of each story which range from humorous and heartfelt to suspenseful and scary.
I wouldn't mind a second volume of Life Day stories. Maybe we could see what Life Day festivities are like on Cloud City or when observed by the Hutts. But I would also like to see some sequels. I really would like to know what happened to the opposing main characters of my favorite tale. Did both survive? Did they reconcile? I really want to know more about their story. If that's not reason to believe that is a great read, I don't know what is! And there are several characters, who are not Han or Chewie, in this book that I wanted to know more about.
I like that this book is set during different periods of time. The story on Coruscant occurs during the days of the Old Republic. My favorite story, 'The Song of Winter's Heart' takes place during the early days of the rebellion, showing how a pair of best friends can grow apart on different sides of the political spectrum, with one becoming a storm trooper and the other a rebel, and yet, the shared cultural heritage of the holidays can make even the worst of enemies brothers once more.
I also like that a majority of these stories star established characters. While my favorite tale had all-new characters, whom I hope to one day encounter again, other stories feature some of the most beloved characters across all 3 trilogies. Obi-Wan Kenobi, Wicket and the rest of his tribe are amongst those who appear. You won't get Darth Vader, Luke Skywalker or Princess Leia. But as you could probably guess, Chewbacca and his family, including son Lumpy, star in the Life Day story set on Kashyyyk that closes out this collection. Yup! Han Solo is there too!
Some characters from before Episode I, who have been established in the pages of either Dark Horse or Marvel comics publications appear here too. One such character is Jedi Knight Stellan Gios, who appears on the cover. I only know that Stellan is an established character thanks to a Google search. I'm wondering if he was meant to be based on actor David Tennant. Because that's who he looks like in profile in the beautifully painted cover image by Grant Griffin. All of the artist's paintings were fantastic and added greatly to the intended theme of each story which range from humorous and heartfelt to suspenseful and scary.
I wouldn't mind a second volume of Life Day stories. Maybe we could see what Life Day festivities are like on Cloud City or when observed by the Hutts. But I would also like to see some sequels. I really would like to know what happened to the opposing main characters of my favorite tale. Did both survive? Did they reconcile? I really want to know more about their story. If that's not reason to believe that is a great read, I don't know what is! And there are several characters, who are not Han or Chewie, in this book that I wanted to know more about.
December 13, 2022
A long time ago in a galaxy far far away -- a galaxy known as the '70s -- the Star Wars Holiday Special was aired on TV for the first (and last) time. Said special is still mocked by hardcore Star Wars enthusiasts as one of the worst pieces of Star-Wars-related media ever generated. Interestingly, however, the concept of Life Day -- a Star Wars holiday similar to Christmas -- has still managed to hang on in the fandom. And Disney must have decided to keep that particular element, because they not only released the Lego Star Wars Holiday Special that centered on the fictional holiday, but they released this anthology of Star Wars holiday stories. And it's actually highly enjoyable.
Despite its title, this book doesn't focus solely on Life Day -- the prologue states that a variety of holidays are celebrated in the winter throughout the galaxy, and the stories in this collection show this variety. A Jedi of the High Republic hunts down a thief during Coruscant's own midwinter holiday, a collection of droids held captive by Jawas share stories about a Santa-Claus-like figure who helps ailing droids, Wicket sets out to hunt a legendary monster for the Ewok village feast, a Rebel soldier and an Imperial stormtrooper who had once been friends lay down their arms to commemorate their own celebration... and more. And all this culminates in a story centered on Chewbacca and his family, in a sort of pseudo-sequel to the infamous Holiday Special.
This collection may not be enjoyable to someone who isn't familiar to the Star Wars universe -- many of the alien species go undescribed, for example, meaning the inexperienced or casual fan will have to hit Google as they read. But each story gives us a glimpse of the many cultures that make up our favorite galaxy, and each is a surprisingly emotional and sweet story that will help warm the heart during any midwinter holiday. And it's fun looking for nods to the films throughout -- it's highly implied, for example, that the droids' Santa figure is Obi-Wan Kenobi himself.
Each story is also accompanied by a lovely illustration. Kudos to the artist for their contribution!
For anyone who thought that it was impossible to create anything holiday-related in the Star Wars universe, this book is proof that not everything connected to Life Day is cursed to be either bad or goofily non-canon. It's a fun read for the Star Wars geek, and a little deeper look at the culture of one of the most famous sci-fi universes ever.
Despite its title, this book doesn't focus solely on Life Day -- the prologue states that a variety of holidays are celebrated in the winter throughout the galaxy, and the stories in this collection show this variety. A Jedi of the High Republic hunts down a thief during Coruscant's own midwinter holiday, a collection of droids held captive by Jawas share stories about a Santa-Claus-like figure who helps ailing droids, Wicket sets out to hunt a legendary monster for the Ewok village feast, a Rebel soldier and an Imperial stormtrooper who had once been friends lay down their arms to commemorate their own celebration... and more. And all this culminates in a story centered on Chewbacca and his family, in a sort of pseudo-sequel to the infamous Holiday Special.
This collection may not be enjoyable to someone who isn't familiar to the Star Wars universe -- many of the alien species go undescribed, for example, meaning the inexperienced or casual fan will have to hit Google as they read. But each story gives us a glimpse of the many cultures that make up our favorite galaxy, and each is a surprisingly emotional and sweet story that will help warm the heart during any midwinter holiday. And it's fun looking for nods to the films throughout -- it's highly implied, for example, that the droids' Santa figure is Obi-Wan Kenobi himself.
Each story is also accompanied by a lovely illustration. Kudos to the artist for their contribution!
For anyone who thought that it was impossible to create anything holiday-related in the Star Wars universe, this book is proof that not everything connected to Life Day is cursed to be either bad or goofily non-canon. It's a fun read for the Star Wars geek, and a little deeper look at the culture of one of the most famous sci-fi universes ever.
September 26, 2022
“Between these pages you will find just a small selection of these festive tales – legends and myths that speak of love and kinship, peace and caring, and, most important of all, hope for tomorrow. Here’s to a happy Life Day for us all, now and forever.”
3,5/5!
Life Day Treasury is a collection of winter and holiday themed stories from the galaxy far far away. Essentially, this is a Christmas short story collection for Star Wars. Scott and Mann have created stories about different cultures and their winter traditions, and tweaked our real world traditional Christmas stories to make them fit the SW universe (we have the classic Christmas meet-cute love story, we have a Christmas ghost story and a story inspired by the Christmas Truce from the First World War). It's a really sweet, hopeful book.
I am aware that I am reading this in September and that I probably should have waited until December to pick this book up, but I don't care, I wanted to read it now and it's not like a person cannot enjoy winter and Christmas-esque stories at any other point in the year. I had great fun with this collection. Some of the stories didn't work for me as much as the others, but there some that I really loved, like the Winter Truce -inspired story of two childhood friends who end up in different sides of the Galactic Civil War, and the story set on Kashyyyk that follows Chewbacca's family. I was pumped to read about wookiees in red robes and all that iconic Star Wars Holiday Special stuff. I also enjoyed getting to learn more about certain cultures, like Alderaan's Winter's Heart celebration and how Reflection Day is this huge day of thousands of pilgrims and people gathering on Jedha to glimpse into these kyber mirrors for guidance. I love Jedha as a setting and it was described in a really interesting way in this book.
I think Scott and Mann created really sweet stories that center on themes that are central to both Christmas and Star Wars: hope, togetherness, love, celebrating life and peace. These kinds of middle grade story collections are not often my absolute favourite SW books, but I always enjoy them and they always have a story or two that really hits me, which is why I will keep reading them.
3,5/5!
Life Day Treasury is a collection of winter and holiday themed stories from the galaxy far far away. Essentially, this is a Christmas short story collection for Star Wars. Scott and Mann have created stories about different cultures and their winter traditions, and tweaked our real world traditional Christmas stories to make them fit the SW universe (we have the classic Christmas meet-cute love story, we have a Christmas ghost story and a story inspired by the Christmas Truce from the First World War). It's a really sweet, hopeful book.
I am aware that I am reading this in September and that I probably should have waited until December to pick this book up, but I don't care, I wanted to read it now and it's not like a person cannot enjoy winter and Christmas-esque stories at any other point in the year. I had great fun with this collection. Some of the stories didn't work for me as much as the others, but there some that I really loved, like the Winter Truce -inspired story of two childhood friends who end up in different sides of the Galactic Civil War, and the story set on Kashyyyk that follows Chewbacca's family. I was pumped to read about wookiees in red robes and all that iconic Star Wars Holiday Special stuff. I also enjoyed getting to learn more about certain cultures, like Alderaan's Winter's Heart celebration and how Reflection Day is this huge day of thousands of pilgrims and people gathering on Jedha to glimpse into these kyber mirrors for guidance. I love Jedha as a setting and it was described in a really interesting way in this book.
I think Scott and Mann created really sweet stories that center on themes that are central to both Christmas and Star Wars: hope, togetherness, love, celebrating life and peace. These kinds of middle grade story collections are not often my absolute favourite SW books, but I always enjoy them and they always have a story or two that really hits me, which is why I will keep reading them.
December 11, 2025
A pleasant and enjoyable collection of holiday-themed Star Wars stories!
First, I think this book does a great job of capturing the holiday vibe. It’s a very feel-good sort of collection, with all the stories having some sort of theme of wonder, friendship, family, or some other such holiday thing. I think my favorite thing about it overall is how nicely it showcases the ways that Life Day is celebrated across the Star Wars galaxy. Life Day or the winter season is always a through-line, but the traditions and in-universe tales showcased in each story are all a little different from one to the next. As a fan, it’s fun to see, and it made for a collection that feels cohesive and connected while still being varied. On top of that, you get a nice variety of time periods and perspectives; one is from the perspective of Stellan Gios during the High Republic, one is about the Galactic Civil War (and is very alike Lost Stars, actually), while others focus on alien cultures or droids. The stories themselves are varied with a few being about holiday tales and legends, some being more about the traditions, and one that even dips slightly into horror. I also did really love a few stories here. I’d say maybe five out of the eight were really good, with a couple standouts—for me being A Coruscant Solstice, The Spirit of Life Day, and my favorite being The Song of Winter’s Heart. I found all these interesting or touching in some way, and I really liked them.
The main downside here is something that often comes with short fiction collections, which is just that I don’t love everything. I mentioned that I really enjoyed five out of eight stories, which leaves three—none of which were bad, but I just found them a bit “meh.” Still, that’s to be expected.
Overall, a delightful collection that I enjoyed a good amount. I’d recommend checking it out if you’re ever looking for a Star Wars read during the holidays.
Rating: 8.5/10
First, I think this book does a great job of capturing the holiday vibe. It’s a very feel-good sort of collection, with all the stories having some sort of theme of wonder, friendship, family, or some other such holiday thing. I think my favorite thing about it overall is how nicely it showcases the ways that Life Day is celebrated across the Star Wars galaxy. Life Day or the winter season is always a through-line, but the traditions and in-universe tales showcased in each story are all a little different from one to the next. As a fan, it’s fun to see, and it made for a collection that feels cohesive and connected while still being varied. On top of that, you get a nice variety of time periods and perspectives; one is from the perspective of Stellan Gios during the High Republic, one is about the Galactic Civil War (and is very alike Lost Stars, actually), while others focus on alien cultures or droids. The stories themselves are varied with a few being about holiday tales and legends, some being more about the traditions, and one that even dips slightly into horror. I also did really love a few stories here. I’d say maybe five out of the eight were really good, with a couple standouts—for me being A Coruscant Solstice, The Spirit of Life Day, and my favorite being The Song of Winter’s Heart. I found all these interesting or touching in some way, and I really liked them.
The main downside here is something that often comes with short fiction collections, which is just that I don’t love everything. I mentioned that I really enjoyed five out of eight stories, which leaves three—none of which were bad, but I just found them a bit “meh.” Still, that’s to be expected.
Overall, a delightful collection that I enjoyed a good amount. I’d recommend checking it out if you’re ever looking for a Star Wars read during the holidays.
Rating: 8.5/10
September 8, 2021
The following review contains spoilers
Life Day Treasury Review
Life Day is upon us in the cosmos. Or rather Life Day Treasury is. I find the title to be an apt descript of the book. All the stories are about Life Day and it is a real treasure trove of stories.
Life Day Treasury: Holiday Stories from a Galaxy Far, Far Away delivers as expected given the writers. Cavan Scott and George Mann have written some truly fantastic stories here. Grant Griffin is on illustration duty here and he does some great stuff. All the pieces of art feel very Star Wars. The pieces are incredibly helpful to understanding the mood and the species of the tale. If I had to stage a complaint about the art, it is that there is too little. One for each story is fine, but I would have loved to seen more. I guess that is the price you pay for great art. You want more of it.
Within Life Day Treasury: Holiday Stories from a Galaxy Far we get eight stories spanning planets, timelines, and characters. High Republic poster boy Stellan Gios and I can’t help but laugh at the irony. His story is also the first one we start out with. It is nice seeing him in a joyful mood to be honest. In every appearance we’ve seen him before, he seems weighed down by the duty of being on The Council. I enjoyed seeing him pre-Valo.
Some of the other stories we get are Chewy and his family on Kashyyk. I loved seeing the Tree of Life. Also I enjoyed the little Han Solo cameo as well.
Some of the other standout stories are The Kindling, An Old Hope, and The Kroolok. I am not going to reveal all the stories so there is some level of surprise, but I enjoyed them all thoroughly. If I had to rank my top three, I would say The Kindling, An Old Hope, and An Coruscant Solstice are my favorites. I cannot wait to give this book another read through on Life Day (November 17th I believe).
Life Day Treasury Review
Life Day is upon us in the cosmos. Or rather Life Day Treasury is. I find the title to be an apt descript of the book. All the stories are about Life Day and it is a real treasure trove of stories.
Life Day Treasury: Holiday Stories from a Galaxy Far, Far Away delivers as expected given the writers. Cavan Scott and George Mann have written some truly fantastic stories here. Grant Griffin is on illustration duty here and he does some great stuff. All the pieces of art feel very Star Wars. The pieces are incredibly helpful to understanding the mood and the species of the tale. If I had to stage a complaint about the art, it is that there is too little. One for each story is fine, but I would have loved to seen more. I guess that is the price you pay for great art. You want more of it.
Within Life Day Treasury: Holiday Stories from a Galaxy Far we get eight stories spanning planets, timelines, and characters. High Republic poster boy Stellan Gios and I can’t help but laugh at the irony. His story is also the first one we start out with. It is nice seeing him in a joyful mood to be honest. In every appearance we’ve seen him before, he seems weighed down by the duty of being on The Council. I enjoyed seeing him pre-Valo.
Some of the other stories we get are Chewy and his family on Kashyyk. I loved seeing the Tree of Life. Also I enjoyed the little Han Solo cameo as well.
Some of the other standout stories are The Kindling, An Old Hope, and The Kroolok. I am not going to reveal all the stories so there is some level of surprise, but I enjoyed them all thoroughly. If I had to rank my top three, I would say The Kindling, An Old Hope, and An Coruscant Solstice are my favorites. I cannot wait to give this book another read through on Life Day (November 17th I believe).
October 14, 2021
A Courscant Solstice
Sorta a standard story, Stellen is there. But like it raises questions of why the jedi aren't doing more, they're having a closed feast? Also only if you steal for someone else it's okay? I think it's a little juvenile. But fine.
An Old Hope
This is really cute. Again it brings up questions of but why is that a story? Basically droid Santa, but why do they say it and believe, human kids have a good reason to believe in Santa. That aside it was cute and sweet and Obi Wan always wins me over
The Kindling
Ah. I kinda hated this. The long story while being chased was super frustrating. But then also the idea that Sith actually need darkness to be powerful was meh. Yeah not a fan. I don't think I'm supposed to feel what the guy is feeling while her story drags on.
The Kroolok
I didn't looove this but it was cute and the visual was super cute. Get me some more ewoks pls
The Song of Winter's Heart
Yeah I nearly threw my phone. "There were good people on both sides" Can we stop excusing nazis? Like yes they are fictional but we all know who they are based after. And this was just handled so poorly in my mind. There was no big emotional moment. Just a "well let's not talk about it" Yeah I hated it. It had potential but ohboy I'm fired.
The Spirit of Life Day
Why was it so creepy? I don't know. It didn't do it for me. I didn't like the ghosts? Like what is wrong with you guys behaving that way?
Reflection Day
Instalove. Uncomfortable instalove.
The Tree of Life
This one did make me happy. I thought it was cute and sweet and to see them all at a different time. This one felt like all I needed. Maybe some ewoks too.
Sorta a standard story, Stellen is there. But like it raises questions of why the jedi aren't doing more, they're having a closed feast? Also only if you steal for someone else it's okay? I think it's a little juvenile. But fine.
An Old Hope
This is really cute. Again it brings up questions of but why is that a story? Basically droid Santa, but why do they say it and believe, human kids have a good reason to believe in Santa. That aside it was cute and sweet and Obi Wan always wins me over
The Kindling
Ah. I kinda hated this. The long story while being chased was super frustrating. But then also the idea that Sith actually need darkness to be powerful was meh. Yeah not a fan. I don't think I'm supposed to feel what the guy is feeling while her story drags on.
The Kroolok
I didn't looove this but it was cute and the visual was super cute. Get me some more ewoks pls
The Song of Winter's Heart
Yeah I nearly threw my phone. "There were good people on both sides" Can we stop excusing nazis? Like yes they are fictional but we all know who they are based after. And this was just handled so poorly in my mind. There was no big emotional moment. Just a "well let's not talk about it" Yeah I hated it. It had potential but ohboy I'm fired.
The Spirit of Life Day
Why was it so creepy? I don't know. It didn't do it for me. I didn't like the ghosts? Like what is wrong with you guys behaving that way?
Reflection Day
Instalove. Uncomfortable instalove.
The Tree of Life
This one did make me happy. I thought it was cute and sweet and to see them all at a different time. This one felt like all I needed. Maybe some ewoks too.
June 30, 2023
This was a bit of a surprise. I figured it would be fully lighthearted and warm. It was but at the same time it was not. Why? Because, truthfully, the Star Wars Universe is anything but light hearted and warm. It has its moments, but it is a universe beset by war and battle. It is a dark place with lots of light to highlight the good.
These stories are all wonderfully done. They are all full of poignant cheer and bits of lightheartedness and brief joy. But there is hope - lots of hope.
Underpinning each story is the Star Wars Universe and its many wars - the Clone Wars, the Imperial Era, the Rebellion, the aftermath of these and the myriad other wars (Sith Wars, various planetary civil wars, etc). But on Galactic Life Day there is hope. And humans thrive on hope and possibility. And in these stories they spread that hope, those possibilities...
Anyone who grew up enjoying the original Grimm Brothers' Fairy Tales will enjoy these. They are dark but at the same time they show the edge of light, hope and possibility. They are not Disney Fairy Tales by any means, they are darker, gothic, and full of woe. But because they are fairy tales, they have hope.
These stories are all wonderfully done. They are all full of poignant cheer and bits of lightheartedness and brief joy. But there is hope - lots of hope.
Underpinning each story is the Star Wars Universe and its many wars - the Clone Wars, the Imperial Era, the Rebellion, the aftermath of these and the myriad other wars (Sith Wars, various planetary civil wars, etc). But on Galactic Life Day there is hope. And humans thrive on hope and possibility. And in these stories they spread that hope, those possibilities...
Anyone who grew up enjoying the original Grimm Brothers' Fairy Tales will enjoy these. They are dark but at the same time they show the edge of light, hope and possibility. They are not Disney Fairy Tales by any means, they are darker, gothic, and full of woe. But because they are fairy tales, they have hope.
June 28, 2025
I had to get this one, because Teacher says that every time something tied in with Life Day is sold, an Andor fan gets violent diarrhea. But seriously: I like the Life Day stuff; I like that the central aspect of the most maligned part of the Star Wars mythos has had a redemption arc in the last few years. And what's more Christmassy than a story of redemption?
The book itself is quite a bit of fun: a collection of fluffy stories, tied in with various yulecoded holidays throughout the Star Wars universe. They're all interesting in one way or another, and appropriate reading material for the Holiday season, with some pretty nice illustrations. I've already snuck this one onto our shelf of Christmas books, and I don't think anyone in my family has noticed yet.
So, next year, maybe take some time out from the hustle and bustle of the Holiday season, after you've watched the weird VR shit Art Carney brought you but before you put on your ritual Snuggie and ponder your orb, and kick back a story or two out of this collection.
The book itself is quite a bit of fun: a collection of fluffy stories, tied in with various yulecoded holidays throughout the Star Wars universe. They're all interesting in one way or another, and appropriate reading material for the Holiday season, with some pretty nice illustrations. I've already snuck this one onto our shelf of Christmas books, and I don't think anyone in my family has noticed yet.
So, next year, maybe take some time out from the hustle and bustle of the Holiday season, after you've watched the weird VR shit Art Carney brought you but before you put on your ritual Snuggie and ponder your orb, and kick back a story or two out of this collection.
October 27, 2021
I wanted to like this book, but I couldn't. Like most Star Wars short stories, the one here are just too far removed from anything we know (even other books/comics/games/etc, not just the movies) to hold any real interest. It's also frustrating that several of these stories seem to be trying to convey a theme, but fall short. For example, the one about Reflection Day loses track entirely when it decides at the last moment it needs to be shoe-horned romance instead. Though the stories here run the gamut of the SW timeline, we're once again frustrating deprived of anything Resistance-era - which could have easily been done without spoiling anything else the mouse might be working up, considering the aforementioned detatched nature. I also realized here how spoiled I've been for queer representation in The High Republic (admittedly the only thing I like about here). There are exactly zero queer character in any of these stories, and it really shows.
December 17, 2022
"It's message was clear: no matter where you were from or what you looked like, you could share in the hope that tomorrow would be better and that, if you loved and cared for others, whatever your differences, you would ensure that darkness never extinguished the light".
This book is a collection of short stories ideal to be read in the run up to and around Christmas. I never expected to like it so much and even have some of the words inspire me and have me reflecting on my own life. These are feel-good tales that can easily be read in a short amount of time.
The book is wonderfully presented with beautiful illustrations at the start of each story to show you the characters and set the mood.
My personal favourites were "The song of winters heart", a tale about two friends who grow up on Alderaan but find themselves on opposite sides of the Galactic Civil War and "Reflection Day", a story about a young man on a pilgrimage to Jedha with the hopes of finding a new focus in his life.
This book is a collection of short stories ideal to be read in the run up to and around Christmas. I never expected to like it so much and even have some of the words inspire me and have me reflecting on my own life. These are feel-good tales that can easily be read in a short amount of time.
The book is wonderfully presented with beautiful illustrations at the start of each story to show you the characters and set the mood.
My personal favourites were "The song of winters heart", a tale about two friends who grow up on Alderaan but find themselves on opposite sides of the Galactic Civil War and "Reflection Day", a story about a young man on a pilgrimage to Jedha with the hopes of finding a new focus in his life.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 91 reviews