Read, You Must: The Empire Strikes Back!

In celebration of the 40th anniversary of The Empire Strikes Back this week, we're looking back at some of the many wonderful print adaptations of the first-ever Star Wars sequel, particularly those intended for younger fans!

Over the past 40 years there have been many versions of this tale for all ages. Here's just a few:

For the Youngest Readers

Star Wars Epic Yarns: The Empire Strikes Back by Jack &Holman Wang  (2015) “These board books from Chronicle Books offer a unique look at the movies’ key scenes through gorgeously photographed needle-felted characters. Each movie in the original trilogy is presented in 12 images and 12 words."

For Learning Readers

The Empire Strikes Back Little Golden Book by Geof Smith, Illustrated by Chris Kennett  (2015)

"The epic space saga, Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back, is finally retold in the iconic Little Golden Book format! After the destruction of the Death Star, the Empire has regrouped—with Darth Vader leading the hunt for Luke Skywalker. Featuring stunning retro illustrations, this book is perfect for Star Wars—and Little Golden Book—fans of all ages!"

The Empire Strikes Back Read-Along Storybook & CD Walt Disney Records by Randy Thornton, Illustrated by Brian Rood (2015) "The Rebellion faces its darkest hour in Star Wars: Episode V The Empire Strikes Back. Fully illustrated with gorgeous images by Star Wars artist Brian Rood, this epic storybook also includes a CD with word-for-word narration, music, and character voices. Follow along as Luke Skywalker trains with Yoda to become a Jedi and defeat the fearsome Darth Vader."

For Avid Readers

The Empire Strikes Back Graphic Novel written by Alessandro Ferrari, various artists (2019)

"Like the other Star Wars Graphic Novel Adaptations, The Empire Strikes Back combines the epic wonder of a galaxy far, far away with streamlined, young-reader friendly designs, making this a visual treat for longtime fans and a great introduction for newcomers."

The Empire Strikes Back: So You Want to Be a Jedi? by Adam Gidwitz (2015)  "...a captivating retelling of Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back like you've never experienced before, infusing the iconic, classic tale of good versus evil with a unique perspective and narrative style that will speak directly to today's young readers while enhancing the Star Wars experience for core fans of the saga."

The Empire Strikes Back by Ryder Windham (2004) "Darth Vader vs. Luke Skywalker. Father vs. son. An amazing all-new novelization that will tie in with the blockbuster classic Star Wars DVD release."