Are The Star Wars Books Considered Canon?

If you’re a Star Wars fan like me, you’ve probably found yourself diving into the vast universe of books that expand on the epic saga. But here’s the burning question: Are the Star Wars books considered canon? In other words, do they officially count as part of the official Star Wars storyline? Well, my friend, buckle up and get ready for some intergalactic knowledge because we’re about to explore this fascinating topic!

When it comes to the Star Wars books, there’s a bit of a mixed bag. Some of them are indeed considered part of the official canon, while others fall into the realm of what is known as “Star Wars Legends.” Now, before you get your lightsaber in a twist, let me explain. The term “canon” refers to the official, established storyline of Star Wars as recognized by Lucasfilm and the creators. These are the stories that shape the galaxy far, far away and directly tie into the movies and TV shows we all know and love. On the other hand, the “Legends” category encompasses the vast collection of books, comics, and other media that were released prior to Disney’s acquisition of Lucasfilm in 2012. While these stories may not be considered part of the official canon, they still hold a special place in the hearts of many fans and offer exciting and imaginative adventures within the Star Wars universe.

So, dear reader, as we delve deeper into the Star Wars books, keep in mind that not all of them are considered canon. But fear not, for whether they are part of the official storyline or fall into the realm of legends, these books still offer a galaxy of entertainment and exploration for every Star Wars enthusiast out there. May the Force be with you as we embark on this literary journey through the stars!

Are the Star Wars Books Considered Canon?

Star Wars is a beloved franchise that has captivated audiences for decades. With its iconic characters, epic battles, and intricate storytelling, it has become a cultural phenomenon. But when it comes to the extended universe of Star Wars books, fans often wonder if they are considered canon. In this article, we will explore the status of Star Wars books in relation to the official canon and delve into the impact they have on the overall Star Wars universe.

The Evolution of Star Wars Canon

The concept of canon in the Star Wars universe has evolved over time. Initially, the original trilogy of films, including “Star Wars: Episode IV – A New Hope,” “Star Wars: Episode V – The Empire Strikes Back,” and “Star Wars: Episode VI – Return of the Jedi,” were considered the core canon. These films introduced iconic characters like Luke Skywalker, Princess Leia, and Darth Vader and set the foundation for the Star Wars universe.

In 2014, Lucasfilm, the company behind Star Wars, made an important announcement. They declared that moving forward, all Star Wars content released under their supervision would be part of a single cohesive canon. This meant that the films, television series, books, comics, and other media would all be interconnected and contribute to the overall Star Wars story. However, this decision also meant that previously released Star Wars books and comics were no longer considered official canon.

The Expanded Universe and Legends

Prior to the establishment of the new canon, Star Wars books were a significant part of the Expanded Universe. The Expanded Universe, also known as the EU, consisted of a vast collection of novels, comics, and other media that expanded upon the events and characters of the Star Wars universe. These stories were highly regarded by fans and provided additional depth and complexity to the Star Wars saga.

After the announcement of the new canon, the previously released Star Wars books and comics were rebranded as “Star Wars Legends.” While these stories are no longer considered official canon, they still hold a special place in the hearts of many fans. Star Wars Legends continues to be a rich source of storytelling and has inspired countless discussions, theories, and fan creations.

The Role of Canon and Legends

While the new canon is the official continuity of the Star Wars universe, the existence of Star Wars Legends allows for a more expansive and diverse storytelling experience. The Legends material provides an opportunity for fans to explore different interpretations of the Star Wars universe and delve into stories that may not be part of the official canon.

It is important to note that elements from Star Wars Legends can still influence and inspire new stories within the official canon. Concepts, characters, and themes from the Expanded Universe have been reintroduced in various forms, allowing for a sense of continuity and nostalgia. This integration of ideas from both canon and Legends ensures that the Star Wars universe remains a vibrant and ever-evolving tapestry of storytelling.

The Impact of Star Wars Books

Although Star Wars books are not considered official canon, they have had a significant impact on the Star Wars universe. These books have expanded upon the lore, introduced new characters and worlds, and provided fans with countless hours of entertainment. Many beloved characters from the Star Wars books, such as Grand Admiral Thrawn and Mara Jade, have become fan favorites and have even made their way into other forms of Star Wars media.

Additionally, Star Wars books have allowed fans to explore different time periods and perspectives within the Star Wars universe. From the Old Republic era to the events following the original trilogy, these books have provided a deeper understanding of the galaxy far, far away. They have also given authors the opportunity to experiment with different genres, such as mystery, romance, and political intrigue, adding further depth to the Star Wars storytelling experience.

Overall, while Star Wars books may not be considered official canon, they have played a pivotal role in shaping the Star Wars universe. They have expanded upon the lore, introduced new characters and concepts, and provided fans with a wealth of compelling stories. Whether you prefer the official canon or delve into the rich tapestry of Star Wars Legends, there is no denying the enduring impact of Star Wars books on the beloved franchise.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What does it mean for a Star Wars book to be considered canon?

When a Star Wars book is considered canon, it means that the events, characters, and storylines depicted in the book are officially recognized as part of the official Star Wars universe. These books are considered to be official and authoritative within the Star Wars continuity.

Canon books are carefully curated and approved by Lucasfilm, the company behind Star Wars, to ensure that they align with the overall story and mythology of the franchise. They are meant to expand upon and enhance the existing Star Wars lore.

2. Are all Star Wars books considered canon?

No, not all Star Wars books are considered canon. In April 2014, Lucasfilm announced that only the Star Wars movies, TV shows, and a select number of books and comics would be considered official canon. This was done to streamline and clarify the Star Wars story and prevent inconsistencies or contradictions within the expanded universe.

However, there are still many non-canon Star Wars books that fans enjoy reading. These books are often referred to as “Legends” and offer alternative stories and interpretations of the Star Wars universe. While they may not be considered official canon, they still hold a special place in the hearts of many Star Wars fans.

3. How can I tell if a Star Wars book is considered canon?

If you’re unsure whether a Star Wars book is considered canon, there are a few ways to find out. One way is to check if the book has the official Lucasfilm “Canon” logo on its cover or packaging. This logo indicates that the book is part of the official Star Wars canon.

Additionally, you can do some research online or consult reliable sources, such as official Star Wars websites or forums, to see if the book is recognized as canon. These sources often provide updated lists of all the canon Star Wars books, comics, and other media.

4. Why did Lucasfilm decide to change the canon of Star Wars books?

Lucasfilm decided to change the canon of Star Wars books in order to provide a more cohesive and consistent storytelling experience for fans. Over the years, the Star Wars expanded universe had grown significantly, with numerous books, comics, and other media exploring different aspects of the Star Wars universe.

By streamlining the canon, Lucasfilm aimed to create a clear and unified narrative that would be easier for fans to follow and understand. This allowed them to maintain better control over the overall Star Wars story and ensure that all future media aligned with the established canon.

5. Can I still enjoy non-canon Star Wars books?

Absolutely! Non-canon Star Wars books, also known as Legends, can still be enjoyed by fans. These books offer unique and alternative takes on the Star Wars universe and often feature beloved characters and exciting adventures.

While they may not be considered part of the official canon, they can still provide hours of entertainment and allow fans to explore different possibilities within the Star Wars universe. Many fans appreciate the freedom that Legends books offer in terms of storytelling and character development.

How to Read Star Wars Canon Books | The Complete Star Wars Canon Timeline | Chronological Reading

Final Summary: Are the Star Wars books considered canon?

After delving into the question of whether the Star Wars books are considered canon, it is clear that the answer is not a simple yes or no. The Star Wars expanded universe, which includes a vast collection of books, comics, and other media, has had a complex relationship with canon. While many of the books were once considered part of the official Star Wars canon, the acquisition of Lucasfilm by Disney in 2012 brought about a change in the definition of canon.

Following the acquisition, Disney established a new canon policy, declaring that only the movies, animated series, and select other media would be considered official canon. This meant that many of the previously published books were rebranded as “Legends,” existing outside of the main Star Wars storyline. However, this does not diminish the value of these books to fans and the Star Wars universe as a whole.

While the Star Wars books may not be considered official canon, they still hold immense significance to fans and provide additional depth and enjoyment to the Star Wars universe. These books explore untold stories, develop beloved characters, and introduce new and exciting adventures. They offer a wealth of knowledge and insights into the expansive Star Wars lore that can be appreciated by both casual fans and die-hard enthusiasts alike.

In conclusion, although the Star Wars books are not officially considered canon, they remain an integral part of the Star Wars experience. They allow readers to immerse themselves in the rich tapestry of the galaxy far, far away and continue to captivate and inspire fans around the world. Whether you’re a fan of the movies, the books, or both, there is no denying the enduring impact and legacy of the Star Wars expanded universe. May the Force be with you as you embark on your own journey through the pages of these incredible stories.