February 15, 2024
Far from Republic aid, beyond the impassable Stormwall, four young Jedi and an aspiring space pirate band together to fight the tyrannical Nihil regime. After the fall of Starlight Beacon, Jedi Padawan Ram Jomaram followed his instincts back to his home planet, Valo, in hopes of gathering a resistance, but when he arrived, the conquering Nihil had already beaten Valo into submission. Under the guise of the Scarlet Skull, Ram persists alone, until three stranded younglings discover his hideout and insist on joining him. Fourteen-year-old Zyle Keem, descendant of a legendary pirate, burns for the chance to prove themself on a dangerous mission, but once again, their mother leaves them behind in boring safety. When Zyle overhears rumors about a treasure trove of medical supplies submerged on a sunken ship on Valo, they seize the opportunity for glory. This coming-of-age adventure thrusts into hyper speed from the opening scenes, fueled by high action, suspenseful conflict, and perilous stakes. Older and Wong develop a racially diverse and casually queer cast of complex characters, including the antagonists. As Ram, Zyle, and the younglings team up, they navigate attachments, duty, stirring romantic crushes, and desire for belonging. Color illustrations capture the cinematic drama at key moments in the story, and vivid descriptions bring the Force to life. The narration provides enough context for this installment of the High Republic series to stand alone. An immersive and compassionate adventure. (timeline) (Fantasy. 8-13)
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