'Sith' is It - Star Wars Episode III a Harrowing Tale

Book Review:
Star Wars Episode III: Revenge of the Sith
by: Matthews Woodring Stover

Star Wars Episode III: Revenge of the Sith is the harrowing tale of Anakin Skywalker's turn from peaceful Jedi Knight, hero of the Clone Wars, to Darth Vader, an evil Sith Lord and murderer. The third installment of the prequel trilogy, Sith is darker, more terrifying and heartbreaking than any other Star Wars novel written.

While other Star Wars novels have been written as upbeat, and as positive as possible, this novel shows from the very beginning it's darker side. When Jedi Master Obi-Wan Kenobi, Anakin's former mentor and best friend, and Skywalker attempt a rescue mission for the recently kidnapped Chancellor Palpatine, Anakin finds himself with the evil Count Dooku at his mercy, two light sabers crossed over the Count's throat. While a true Jedi would attempt to take Dooku in peacefully, Anakin gives into revenge and beheads the evil Sith Lord. This event is the beginning of a long down spiral into the dark for Anakin.

As I sat down to read this, I assumed it would be like any other Star Wars novel, just a companion and repetition of one of the movies. What I found however, was a gut-wrenching drama that far surpasses any movie. While the motion picture may be able to more accurately depict battle droids and light saber fights, it cannot show the inner fears that dominate Anakin's thoughts. From his fear of his secret marriage to Senator Padme Amidala being discovered by the Jedi Order, to his fears of losing those he loves most, like he lost his mother, Anakin's every move is shadowed and motivated by his fears. Even after he gives into his anger and fear, and becomes Darth Vader, the thoughts of his previous self seep in and cloud his mind and thoughts.

Previously I had thought, much as many Star Wars fans do, that Episode V: The Empire Strikes Back was the best Star Wars movie and novel, after reading Sith I have changed my views. This novel is so thought provoking and emotionally touching that when I received it I couldn't help but read it straight through. From the first page to the last I was taken on an emotion roller coaster, finding myself rooting for a love that I knew was doomed to fail, and agonizing over the decisions that change our hero to villain.

From beginning to end, Star Wars Episode III: Revenge of the Sith , is an extraordinary novel that I would recommend to any reader, no matter if they are an avid fan of the series or a fanatic. Any literature lover will appreciate the display of emotion and action that comes through with every written word.