At the intersection of Wimpy Kid and Star Wars lies Forces of Destiny, Tales of Hope & Courage. It’s a hardback graphic novel, with six original stories that are presented in a journal format. Moreover, the book’s narrator is Maz Kanata and has more vocabulary than illustrations, but still easily qualifies as a graphic novel.
The women of Star Wars take the lead in Tales of Hope & Courage. Princess Leia, Jyn Erso, Ahsoka Tano, Rey, Sabine Wren and Padme Amidala each have their own story. Young readers, especially Star Wars fans will enjoy the storytelling pattern that Maz Kanata. They’re presented in a home spun, folky way that young readers won’t realize, but holds their hand as they maneuver their way through the book. Older readers might equate Maz’ style to The Storyteller from Jim Henson or some other relaxed, trusted soul who’s telling tales.
Each story is between 13-19 pages long and has vocabulary that second graders and up will be able to read with ease. That age will also enjoy the journal format of the book-once they get used to it. On any given page the font could be different or have the words in different sizes. Young readers who are familiar with graphic novels won’t notice it, however, readers who are coming to Tales of Hope & Courage from non-illustrated books might need to adjust their eyes as they read the font.
Another bonus it that aspiring illustrators can see traces of the original artist’s sketches in some of the illustrations. It’s accurate to say that prior to the current crop of Star Wars films they mainly appealed to guys. With Star Wars Force of Destiny, Tales of Hope & Courage the script gets flipped and it’s the girls of the Force that are the center of the action.
To this point is Tales of Hope & Courage a book that’s just for the girls? It’s certainly going to appeal to them much more than boys, but those guys that are more in line for a great story and some Star Wars action will see through it and enjoy the ride.
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