This article was originally published on TatooineTimes.com
Random House Worlds has unleashed another wave of Essential Legends Collection paperbacks, among them Outbound Flight, first published in 2006. A prequel of sorts to his now Legends Thrawn Trilogy, Timothy Zahn gives readers a peek into how the galaxy first encountered the Chiss in the era of the Clone Wars.
The story revolves around the Outbound Flight project, led by Jedi Master Jorus C’baoth and funded by the Galactic Republic. The project’s goal is to explore the mysterious Unknown Regions of the galaxy, seeking new civilizations and expansion of knowledge. Enter Mitth’raw’nuruodo aka Thrawn, a Chiss officer renowned for his strategic prowess and deep insights into art and culture. Recognizing the potential danger of Outbound Flight’s presence in the Unknown Regions, Thrawn takes it upon himself to prevent escalation but paints himself in a devious light while doing so. Tensions rise as the goals of the Republic and the Chiss come into conflict but will everyone be satisfied in the end?
Timothy Zahn hasn’t been a beloved Star Wars author for 30 plus years for no reason, his writing is engaging and always entertaining. Zahn’s talents shine particularly when he’s writing Thrawn, who’s as intriguing and complex as he’s ever been in Outbound Flight. Choosing to go backwards in time allows Zahn to give a glimpse into how a younger Thrawn first came to know and understand the Republic. In Outbound Flight we get to experience Thrawn quickly learning Basic, putting his deduction skills to use, and see traces of the Grand Admiral we know he will become in the future.
Thrawn’s presence in Outbound Flight is ultimately what makes the novel enjoyable. For those whose tastes for Star Wars novels include space battles and tactics, Outbound Flight is right up your alley. Similarly, if you’re a Clone Wars fan there are nuggets of plotlines and characters included that will definitely pique your interest, however, these elements almost feel forced and ultimately don’t add any sort of forward plot momentum to really be of note. I will say that the inclusion of Senator Palpatine/Darth Sidious adds a thrilling element and definitely is a character who can give Thrawn a run for his money in terms of dastardly deeds. Ultimately, Outbound Flight masterfully weaves themes of exploration, ambition, and the intricate interplay of power and alliances in the Star Wars universe.
The Essential Legends Collection edition of Outbound Flight features gorgeous new artwork by Orlando Arocena, rendered in a kaleidoscope of colors which will display nicely on bookshelves everywhere. Don’t get lost in unknown space, head to your local bookseller today and grab a copy of Outbound Flight, the Essential Legends Collection edition today, now available in audiobook format narrated by Marc Thompson!
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