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Star Wars: The High Republic Adventures (2021-2022) #4
Zeen has followed the Jedi to the Starlight Beacon, where she learns what it means to be a Padawan and begins her own training. Meanwhile, her best friend Krix tries to survive on a Nihil ship, fighting their way through a Republic blockade, as he wonders who the mysterious person who rescued him truly is.
Writer Daniel José Older, New York Times bestselling author of Star Wars: Last Shot, and artist Harvey Tolibao bring IDW into The High Republic, a massive crossover spanning comics and prose!
Writer Daniel José Older, New York Times bestselling author of Star Wars: Last Shot, and artist Harvey Tolibao bring IDW into The High Republic, a massive crossover spanning comics and prose!
33 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 5, 2021
14 people are currently reading
83 people want to read
About the author
Daniel José Older
179 books1,965 followersDaniel José Older is the New York Times bestselling author of the Young Adult series the Shadowshaper Cypher (Scholastic), the Bone Street Rumba urban fantasy series (Penguin), and the upcoming Middle Grade sci-fi adventure Flood City (Scholastic). He won the International Latino Book Award and has been nominated for the Kirkus Prize, the Mythopoeic Award, the Locus Award, the Andre Norton Award, and yes, the World Fantasy Award. Shadowshaper was named one of Esquire’s 80 Books Every Person Should Read. You can find his thoughts on writing, read dispatches from his decade-long career as an NYC paramedic and hear his music at http://danieljoseolder.net/, on youtube and @djolder on twitter.
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Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews
May 21, 2021
2.5 stars.
Ah yes, there is nothing like doing something completely reckless and selfless and stupid completely alone because that's "what you have to do" or some such thing. Let's just hope that things go better in one of these than they regularly do.
Overall, this one was a staging one if anything where not much happens.
The only thing that made me really happy was seeing Krix and following along his journey and, now, speculating as to what that may be. I did not enter this story thinking he would be my favorite character but he is quickly becoming the one.
What I do not have any doubts about is that whatever the eventual ending of the story is is gonna be flashy and either break my heart or completely mend it. I don't see any middle ground here.
______________
Yep, that just reaffirms that this is my favorite Star Wars content coming out right now.
The innocence in it, or something to do with it, just makes me love it to pieces and enjoy it thoroughly each time.
RTC.
______________
Am I reading both issues 3 and 4 at the same time? Yes, yes I am. For the simple reason that tomorrow I have a bit of a road trip and having different things to read through it always makes me happiest.
“The force is a mountain. It connects the ground and sky. It cannot be moved. And we are one with it. When we are one with the force, it’s not just that anything is possible, everything is possible!”
Ah yes, there is nothing like doing something completely reckless and selfless and stupid completely alone because that's "what you have to do" or some such thing. Let's just hope that things go better in one of these than they regularly do.
Overall, this one was a staging one if anything where not much happens.
The only thing that made me really happy was seeing Krix and following along his journey and, now, speculating as to what that may be. I did not enter this story thinking he would be my favorite character but he is quickly becoming the one.
What I do not have any doubts about is that whatever the eventual ending of the story is is gonna be flashy and either break my heart or completely mend it. I don't see any middle ground here.
“The truth is it’s not that the force is a mountain. Or the sky. Or any one thing. The force is everchanging, like the sky, and as still as the mountain. It’s the whole universe, each tiny piece of it. And it’s always in motion, will always fall apart, come back together.”
______________
Yep, that just reaffirms that this is my favorite Star Wars content coming out right now.
The innocence in it, or something to do with it, just makes me love it to pieces and enjoy it thoroughly each time.
RTC.
______________
Am I reading both issues 3 and 4 at the same time? Yes, yes I am. For the simple reason that tomorrow I have a bit of a road trip and having different things to read through it always makes me happiest.
May 16, 2021
A Flat and Even Path to Predictable Mediocrity
So... Issue #4. The last offering was a filler issue setting up a final confrontation... and... this... is... one... too. Previously both sides of the conflict between the Nihil led by Marchion Ro and the author's selection of Jedi Padawan led by Master Yoda had laid out similar plans to fool and gain the advantage over the other, because of course, and set them in motion. The reader was promised a confrontation what they get is an all-too-brief space battle that serves only to allow unsupervised impulsivity, a backhanded change of heart, and a series of senseless decisions leading to the conclusion that readers will have to wait another month for any kind of payoff. Looking back, the reader has the road map that enables them to look forward and see the end. I've given up on getting a good story. Now I just want to see if I'm right.
So... Issue #4. The last offering was a filler issue setting up a final confrontation... and... this... is... one... too. Previously both sides of the conflict between the Nihil led by Marchion Ro and the author's selection of Jedi Padawan led by Master Yoda had laid out similar plans to fool and gain the advantage over the other, because of course, and set them in motion. The reader was promised a confrontation what they get is an all-too-brief space battle that serves only to allow unsupervised impulsivity, a backhanded change of heart, and a series of senseless decisions leading to the conclusion that readers will have to wait another month for any kind of payoff. Looking back, the reader has the road map that enables them to look forward and see the end. I've given up on getting a good story. Now I just want to see if I'm right.
May 6, 2021
Star Wars: The High Republic Adventures Issue #4 pick up after the events of Issue #3, with Lula teaching Zeen about the Force, while Krix works alongside Marchion Ro. Lula and Zeen continue to be a great duo, especially as they both explore the meaning of the Force and the meaning of friendship. (READ MORE: https://yourmoneygeek.com/review-star...)
On Quantxi, The Junk Moon, Marchion Ro and the Nihil orchestrate a diversion to lure in the Jedi, though their plan is overheard by a resident of the moon. The design for the Trash Keeper, or rather, Junk Mavenzz evoked thoughts of plague doctors, which was very entertaining for me personally. Marchion provides Krix with a weapon and sends him on a mission to stop the Junk Mavenzz from reaching the communications tower.
Everyone keeps telling me that Marchion Ro is a big bad, but then you have him interacting with a kid and I’m less and less convinced. With Krix working alongside the Nihil, I’m curious to see what will happen when Zeen finds him. Will he still resent her from hiding that she’s Force-sensitive? Will some of the Nihil sentiments about Jedi rub off on him?
Daniel José Older has set up such an interesting comic series with The High Republic Adventures. Even in 30-odd paged comic issues, the characters feel fully fleshed out and familiar. I’m ready to see all of these characters appear in other forms of media, because they already feel like old friends.
The art by Harvey Tolibao and coloring by Rebecca Natly are so different from what we see in the current Star Wars comic runs. It’s bright, fun, and quirky. I laughed out loud at the panel of Lula and the other Padawans packed into the vector. Farzala’s face in particular cracked me up. I think that’s what makes The High Republic Adventures one of the best comics running. It doesn’t take itself too seriously. It’s fun!
I love the lighthearted nature of The High Republic Adventures, despite the looming threat of the Nihil and the conflict between them and the Jedi. There’s a thrill that’s delivered in every issue of this series that leaves me anxiously waiting for the next issue as soon as I reach the last page.
Things might come to a head next issue, as the final panels of The High Republic Adventures Issue #4 saw the Jedi receiving a distress call from The Junk Moon. Will Krix face consequences from the stylish Marchion Ro for not killing the Junk Mavenzz in time? Will the Jedi and the Nihil go head-to-head? Will Zeen arrive in time?
Now, we just have to wait another month for the answers!
On Quantxi, The Junk Moon, Marchion Ro and the Nihil orchestrate a diversion to lure in the Jedi, though their plan is overheard by a resident of the moon. The design for the Trash Keeper, or rather, Junk Mavenzz evoked thoughts of plague doctors, which was very entertaining for me personally. Marchion provides Krix with a weapon and sends him on a mission to stop the Junk Mavenzz from reaching the communications tower.
Everyone keeps telling me that Marchion Ro is a big bad, but then you have him interacting with a kid and I’m less and less convinced. With Krix working alongside the Nihil, I’m curious to see what will happen when Zeen finds him. Will he still resent her from hiding that she’s Force-sensitive? Will some of the Nihil sentiments about Jedi rub off on him?
Daniel José Older has set up such an interesting comic series with The High Republic Adventures. Even in 30-odd paged comic issues, the characters feel fully fleshed out and familiar. I’m ready to see all of these characters appear in other forms of media, because they already feel like old friends.
The art by Harvey Tolibao and coloring by Rebecca Natly are so different from what we see in the current Star Wars comic runs. It’s bright, fun, and quirky. I laughed out loud at the panel of Lula and the other Padawans packed into the vector. Farzala’s face in particular cracked me up. I think that’s what makes The High Republic Adventures one of the best comics running. It doesn’t take itself too seriously. It’s fun!
I love the lighthearted nature of The High Republic Adventures, despite the looming threat of the Nihil and the conflict between them and the Jedi. There’s a thrill that’s delivered in every issue of this series that leaves me anxiously waiting for the next issue as soon as I reach the last page.
Things might come to a head next issue, as the final panels of The High Republic Adventures Issue #4 saw the Jedi receiving a distress call from The Junk Moon. Will Krix face consequences from the stylish Marchion Ro for not killing the Junk Mavenzz in time? Will the Jedi and the Nihil go head-to-head? Will Zeen arrive in time?
Now, we just have to wait another month for the answers!
May 15, 2021
This installment wasn't as good as Issues #2 and #3, but I still enjoyed this one well enough. I was disappointed to see the internal monologues seeping back in a couple times at the end but they were nothing like the clunky info-dump text boxes that plagued issue #1.
Lula Talisola (whom the covers make her look like the protagonist, even though she really isn't- Krix and Zeen are) has some more characterization than she did in the previous issues, and Issue #4 also does a solid job advancing the plot and leaving things on an exciting cliffhanger for the final issue of this first arc set to come out next month. After that issue releases I will do a more in depth review for the entire first arc of this series leading up to the next wave of the High Republic, starting with the dual release of The Rising Storm and Race to Crashpoint Tower on June 29th.
Also included in this release is an advertisement for "Weapon of the Jedi", an adventures comic centered on Luke Skywalker, and an excerpt from "Smuggler's Run", another adventures comic about Han Solo. I'm not sure if these are original stories or adaptations of The Weapon of a Jedi: A Luke Skywalker Adventure and Smuggler's Run: A Han Solo & Chewbacca Adventure by Jason Fry and Greg Rucka respectively. The excerpt for Smuggler's run in this comic following the High Republic story looked interesting enough, though.
Lula Talisola (whom the covers make her look like the protagonist, even though she really isn't- Krix and Zeen are) has some more characterization than she did in the previous issues, and Issue #4 also does a solid job advancing the plot and leaving things on an exciting cliffhanger for the final issue of this first arc set to come out next month. After that issue releases I will do a more in depth review for the entire first arc of this series leading up to the next wave of the High Republic, starting with the dual release of The Rising Storm and Race to Crashpoint Tower on June 29th.
Also included in this release is an advertisement for "Weapon of the Jedi", an adventures comic centered on Luke Skywalker, and an excerpt from "Smuggler's Run", another adventures comic about Han Solo. I'm not sure if these are original stories or adaptations of The Weapon of a Jedi: A Luke Skywalker Adventure and Smuggler's Run: A Han Solo & Chewbacca Adventure by Jason Fry and Greg Rucka respectively. The excerpt for Smuggler's run in this comic following the High Republic story looked interesting enough, though.
May 9, 2025
By issue #4, The High Republic Adventures finds its emotional rhythm and narrative momentum. This chapter is both action-packed and deeply personal, as Zeen Mrala officially steps into her identity as a Force-sensitive and chooses her path alongside the Jedi, while her former best friend, Krix, sinks deeper into the clutches of the Nihil.
The story opens aboard the Jedi ship Vanguard, where Zeen, now surrounded by Jedi for the first time, wrestles with guilt, loss, and uncertainty. Her interactions with Lula Talisola and the other Padawans reflect growing bonds of trust and friendship—central themes of the series. There’s a strong sense of “found family” here, with Lula emerging as both a peer and a quiet source of strength for Zeen.
Krix’s storyline takes on a more tragic dimension in this issue. Stranded with Nihil forces, he is being slowly manipulated, especially by the menacing “Eye of the Nihil”. The contrast between Zeen’s open-hearted bravery and Krix’s fear-driven descent is stark and heartbreaking, reinforcing one of the core messages of the Star Wars saga: that fear and isolation can lead people down dark paths.
Daniel José Older continues to excel in portraying young people with emotional depth and moral complexity. The dialogue feels real without being forced, and characters make choices that feel earned. The pacing in this issue is a bit more measured, allowing for strong character development between bursts of action.
Harvey Tolibao’s art and Rebecca Nalty’s colors remain dynamic, balancing expressive characters with sweeping sci-fi visuals. The designs of ships, aliens, and Force abilities are visually engaging, and there’s a clear, cinematic flow to the panels—especially during the Force training sequences and space scenes.
Verdict:
Issue #4 is a powerful continuation that focuses more on emotional fallout and character evolution than pure action. Zeen’s acceptance of her role in the Force, and Lula’s growing maturity as a Jedi, solidify this series as more than a side story—it’s a meaningful addition to the High Republic era, full of heart and youthful courage.
The story opens aboard the Jedi ship Vanguard, where Zeen, now surrounded by Jedi for the first time, wrestles with guilt, loss, and uncertainty. Her interactions with Lula Talisola and the other Padawans reflect growing bonds of trust and friendship—central themes of the series. There’s a strong sense of “found family” here, with Lula emerging as both a peer and a quiet source of strength for Zeen.
Krix’s storyline takes on a more tragic dimension in this issue. Stranded with Nihil forces, he is being slowly manipulated, especially by the menacing “Eye of the Nihil”. The contrast between Zeen’s open-hearted bravery and Krix’s fear-driven descent is stark and heartbreaking, reinforcing one of the core messages of the Star Wars saga: that fear and isolation can lead people down dark paths.
Daniel José Older continues to excel in portraying young people with emotional depth and moral complexity. The dialogue feels real without being forced, and characters make choices that feel earned. The pacing in this issue is a bit more measured, allowing for strong character development between bursts of action.
Harvey Tolibao’s art and Rebecca Nalty’s colors remain dynamic, balancing expressive characters with sweeping sci-fi visuals. The designs of ships, aliens, and Force abilities are visually engaging, and there’s a clear, cinematic flow to the panels—especially during the Force training sequences and space scenes.
Verdict:
Issue #4 is a powerful continuation that focuses more on emotional fallout and character evolution than pure action. Zeen’s acceptance of her role in the Force, and Lula’s growing maturity as a Jedi, solidify this series as more than a side story—it’s a meaningful addition to the High Republic era, full of heart and youthful courage.
May 12, 2021
"The Force is everchanging, like the sky, and as still as the mountain. It’s the whole universe, each tiny piece of it, and it’s always in motion, will always fall apart, come back together. And right now… it just feels like it’s all falling apart. But I know the Force moves trhough me, is one with me. And with the Force I am unstoppable."
This series continues to be a whole lot of fun. This fourth issue has a lot of great moments, and the ending left me sufficiently hyped for issue 5 - I can't wait to see where this series will end up. I also just really love the art of this series, it's very beautiful and vibrant.
This issue had a lot of sweet moments with Zeen and Lula - I love their budding friendship and how Lula, despite being around the same age, kinda acts like a mentor to Zeen, for whom all of this: the Force, the Nihil, the Republic is still very new. I also just really love the padawans and their group dynamic - they are all good, ride-or-die friends who are always ready to help each other, and it's super sweet. Krix is not one of my favorites, but I do like his storyline a lot. BUCKETS OF BLOOD continues to be iconic and I love him.
So, yeah, can't wait for issue 5!
This series continues to be a whole lot of fun. This fourth issue has a lot of great moments, and the ending left me sufficiently hyped for issue 5 - I can't wait to see where this series will end up. I also just really love the art of this series, it's very beautiful and vibrant.
This issue had a lot of sweet moments with Zeen and Lula - I love their budding friendship and how Lula, despite being around the same age, kinda acts like a mentor to Zeen, for whom all of this: the Force, the Nihil, the Republic is still very new. I also just really love the padawans and their group dynamic - they are all good, ride-or-die friends who are always ready to help each other, and it's super sweet. Krix is not one of my favorites, but I do like his storyline a lot. BUCKETS OF BLOOD continues to be iconic and I love him.
So, yeah, can't wait for issue 5!
June 7, 2021
Not gonna lie, I kinda love this bunch of idiots.
Seeing all the padawans crammed into a Jedi vector just made me smile. That they were doing it to stupidly go and rescue their friend just made it better. Reckless are they, indeed.
This is just fantastic, full of youthful energy and the angst that goes with it.
Because heading off into an obvious trap is just what heroes do.
Seeing all the padawans crammed into a Jedi vector just made me smile. That they were doing it to stupidly go and rescue their friend just made it better. Reckless are they, indeed.
This is just fantastic, full of youthful energy and the angst that goes with it.
Because heading off into an obvious trap is just what heroes do.
June 24, 2021
The artwork is fantastic but I feel the story is becoming a bit... "meh" which kind of had that feeling in the last issue but the previous seemed sort of like plot filler... which carried on into this issue. Don't get me wrong, I'm still looking forward to the continuation of this story, this particular issue didn't just thrill me so much.
May 5, 2021
Testing friendship...
I feel like someone is going to die by sacrifice or be killed by Marchion Ro! I don't know we'll see...
I feel like someone is going to die by sacrifice or be killed by Marchion Ro! I don't know we'll see...
May 5, 2021
This series continues to be a visual marvel, though the plot is sagging a bit.
May 10, 2021
This book is definitely setting up the final battle of this series. I’m excited to see how everything wraps up and honestly wouldn’t mind seeing Krix be yeeted into space.
May 15, 2021
Love how Yoda along with the new characters got to be actively involved in the action in this one
July 5, 2021
Jako vždy super ❤️
July 11, 2021
This one is more action-packed. Still bothered by white space backgrounds here and there.
Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews