Long before Disney acquired Lucasfilm for $4 billion, before the prequel trilogy existed, and remarkably even before the original Star Wars film debuted, authors were crafting stories that expanded far beyond what would appear onscreen. The Star Wars Expanded Universe truly lived up to its name, continuously broadening the scope of this galaxy through novels, comics, and video games. However, following Disney's acquisition of the franchise in 2014, these stories were officially rebranded as "Legends" and removed from canon. Despite this, many Legends works remain among the finest Star Wars storytelling ever created, with elements still influencing current canon—like Thrawn's live-action debut in Ahsoka. If you're eager to explore these foundational stories, our curated list highlights the essential Star Wars Legends books worth reading.
Where Should You Begin With Star Wars Legends Books?
Choosing where to start with Legends can feel overwhelming—there are literally hundreds of titles. Our selection narrows it down to the best entry points, spanning groundbreaking origin stories, Mandalorian exploits, zombie Stormtroopers, and thrilling adventures featuring iconic characters’ descendants. Each recommended book is available on Amazon for convenient purchase.
Splinter of the Mind's Eye (1977)
Kindle Edition Splinter of the Mind's Eye
$4.99 at Amazon
This novel launched the Expanded Universe alongside Marvel Comics and newspaper strips. Originally drafted as potential material for a low-budget sequel if Star Wars flopped, it remains legendary for deepening Force mythology. Luke and Leia (sans Han and Chewie) encounter Vader, leading to an intense duel and cosmic Force exploration—essential reading for Legends enthusiasts.
The Han Solo Adventures (1979)
Kindle Edition The Han Solo Adventures
$8.99 at Amazon
This beloved trilogy focuses on Han Solo's roguish escapades, starting with Han Solo at Stars' End—the third Star Wars novel ever published. Brian Daley's writing captures Han and Chewie’s dynamic perfectly as they navigate the galaxy’s criminal underworld, cementing their status as fan favorites.
Heir to the Empire (1991)
Kindle Edition Heir to the Empire
$3.99 at Amazon
The Thrawn Trilogy remains one of Legends' most impactful works. Set five years post-Endor, Timothy Zahn introduces Grand Admiral Thrawn—a tactical genius who later crossed into canon via The Clone Wars and Ahsoka. This is required reading for understanding Legends' influence on modern Star Wars.
Darth Bane: Path of Destruction (2006)
Path of Destruction
$8.99 at Amazon
Drew Karpyshyn’s trilogy delves into the rise of Darth Bane, architect of the Sith Rule of Two. Told from a Sith perspective, this darkly compelling story expands Sith lore while standing strong as a sci-fi tale—perfect for both Star Wars devotees and casual genre fans.
Star Wars: Young Jedi Knights: Heirs of the Force (1995)
Paperback Heirs of the Force
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Following Han and Leia’s Force-sensitive twins, Jacen and Jaina, this YA series was a '90s fan favorite. Jacen’s eventual fall to the dark side (as Darth Caedus) notably inspired Kylo Ren’s arc—making this a fascinating precursor to sequel trilogy themes.
Tales from Jabba's Palace (1995)
Kindle Edition Tales from Jabba's Palace
$4.99 at Amazon
This anthology famously revealed Boba Fett’s survival post-Sarlacc—later echoed in The Book of Boba Fett. Packed with quirky underworld tales, it’s a must-read for fans of the galaxy’s colorful fringe dwellers.
Death Troopers (2009)
Kindle Edition Death Troopers
$11.99 at Amazon
A standout horror entry, this chilling novel follows Imperial prisoners stranded aboard a derelict Star Destroyer—only to face undead Stormtroopers. Joe Schreiber delivers genuine scares in this standalone frightfest.
Darth Plagueis (2012)
Kindle Edition Darth Plagueis
$12.99 at Amazon
James Luceno’s acclaimed novel chronicles the rise of Darth Plagueis and his apprentice, Palpatine. This masterful exploration of Sith ambition bridges gaps in the prequel era while standing as a gripping tragedy.
How Many Star Wars Legends Books Exist?
Nearly 400 novels fall under the Legends banner, alongside comics, games, and spin-offs like The Holiday Special and Knights of the Old Republic. Spanning 1977–2014, Legends built a vast tapestry that newer canon stories now expand upon.
Star Wars Legends vs. Canon
While Legends stories are no longer official canon, their influence persists—some, like Thrawn’s arc, have been reintegrated. Current canon novels (e.g., Claudia Gray’s Leia or the High Republic series) follow a more structured continuity, yet Legends remains a treasure trove of creative worldbuilding.
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