Edge of Balance (Star Wars: The High Republic)

by Shima Shinya and Justina Ireland

Mizuki Sakakibara (Illustrator)

A massive, interconnected cross-publisher initiative focused on an all-new era of Star Wars storytelling.

It is the era of the High Republic and expansion across the stars is at its height. As trusted guardians of peace, the renowned Jedi protect the Republic and shine their light on those exploring the darkest reaches of the galaxy.

© & TM 2021 LUCASFILM LTD       
Copyright © 2021 Disney Enterprises, Inc. All rights reserved.

In the aftermath of the Hyperspace Disaster, young Jedi Knight, Lily Tora-Asi is assigned to help displaced civilians relocate to Banchii, a newly inhabited planet in the Inugg system far in the outer rim. Banchii is the site of a new Jedi temple led by Master Arkoff, Lily’s Wookiee mentor, who imagines the temple as a place of peace for new inhabitants and for those who are traveling beyond. While balancing the arrival of incoming settlers with the strange mysteries of this remote outpost, Lily wonders if she’s doing enough to bring peace to the galaxy. But when hidden dangers begin to emerge, the young Jedi will face her greatest challenge yet . . .

• ISBN10: 197472588X
• ISBN13: 9781974725885
• Publish Date: 7 September 2021
• Publish Status: Active
• Publish Country: US
• Imprint: Viz Media, Subs. of Shogakukan Inc
• Format: Paperback (US Trade)
• Pages: 144
• Language: English

Reviews

[Quirky Cat]

Summary:

Lily Tora-Asi is a young Jedi Knight. While she's capable and determined, she hasn't entirely found her footing, so to speak. Her current mission is her first significant endeavor into the great unknown.

She has been sent to help civilians relocate to Banchii. However, the relocation does not go as planned, as there is an unknown danger in their midst. Things are about to escalate quickly – too quickly for Lily Tora-Asi to call for backup.

Review:

Overall, I would say that The Edge of Balance Vol. 1 is a light dive into the world of Star Wars. I wouldn't go into this one expecting an intense or deep plot. That said, if you love stories set within the High Republic, check out this one.

I'll admit that I had trouble connecting to the characters and their stories. Something about it felt hollow like something was missing. Likely this is simply because I am not the target audience/demographic. It happens, and that's okay.

There are some great elements in The Edge of Balance Vol. 1. First, the ties to the larger universe (Hyperspace Disaster, etc.). Second, the series of Jedi/master/padawan relationships. Finally, there's Master Arkoff – a Wookiee Jedi. I loved him and needed to learn more about him.

Highlights:
Star Wars Graphic Novel
Manga
Space Opera

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