Booknote: Lando

Charles Soule, Star Wars: Lando. New York: Marvel, 2016.  ISBN: 978-0-7851-9319-7.

Genre: graphic novels and comics
Subgenre: Star Wars, science fiction, space opera
Format: trade paperback
Source: Berea branch of the Madison County (KY) Public Library


From the book's description:

"Before he joined the Rebellion, before he ran Cloud City, Lando made his way in the galaxy getting by on some swindles, some swagger, and a smile. With the loyal Lobot at his side, Lando has a plan to steal a very valuable ship." 

This book is part of Marvel's new Star Wars comics under Disney ownership. In this comic, Lando finds himself in trouble when he has to settle a debt to a crimelord. To settle it, the crimelord gives Lando one big job: to steal a very valuable ship. Even better for Lando is that he can keep anything of value inside the ship. At the moment, the ship is in dock for repairs, which means minimal security and a great time to steal it. It looks like an easy payday, but Lando soon finds out things are not as they seem. When the owner finds out the ship is stolen, he sends a deadly assassin after Lando, and that may be the least of his worries.

This is a good, fast paced story of Lando Calrissian's early days. It's a good thieves' tale with plenty of action and charm. We see Lando as a smart and lovable scoundrel with a great gift for charm. The tale draws you in right away, and once you start, you keep reading right to the end. And it also has a fast, tense, and moving ending. Additionally, the tale provides more insight into the friendship and bond between Lando and Lobot; for fans of the original films, this may be of interest too. Plus, the art in this volume is very good.

Overall, this is a story I really liked. It did feel a bit short, but it packed in a lot in terms of action. If another volume comes out, I will seek it out. Star Wars fans, especially for The Empire Strikes Back, will likely enjoy this one. It is a good addition for libraries.

4 out of 5 stars.

This book qualifies for the following 2016 Reading Challenges: