Padawan - Book Review

This is indeed the year of Obi-Wan Kenobi. Fans have now fully experienced the titular limited series on Disney+ while reading Mike Chen’s Brotherhood and comic book miniseries. All these various types of medium have explored different moments in Obi-Wan’s life—from newly appointed member of the Jedi Council to confronting his painful past after the Jedi Purge. However, a story about teenager Obi-Wan was yet to be told, until now. Author Kiersten White brought a compelling origin story about the turning point of the Padawan’s life in a YA novel that is meaningful to the character while also being fun at the same time.

Just like Brotherhood, Padawan serves the readers with an incredible amount of character development, digging into Obi-Wan’s young mind as he struggles through his insecurities and fears. This is an incredible insight that doesn’t just add to the already established character—it makes the readers understand why Obi-Wan was destined to be Qui-Gon’s apprentice and consequently the master of Anakin Skywalker. The similarities between Obi-Wan and Anakin are evident in the book, especially the fact that both characters really care for being their best selves and to protect others. This side of Obi-Wan is so refreshing, and perfectly ties to the character we’ve known over the last forty five years.

Although Padawan‘s point of view is predominantly that of Obi-Wan, the planet itself (and its power source) takes center stage of the story. Its natural beauty and symbiotic nature make it an actual, living character that will challenge and inspire the Padawan and the planet’s inhabitants. And speaking of the youngsters living the land, White did a marvelous job at creating supporting characters that have a balanced variety of personalities that truly drive Obi-Wan’s thoughts and decisions. The book also has a main villain (which makes an official appearance in the third act of the story), but his presence is merely a story device more than a full fledged, fascinating foe. Overall, the author’s main inspiration for the tale seems to come from Peter Pan—the peculiarity of the planet, its young residents, and the evil adult very similar to the timeless fairy tale.

Besides being a standalone story, Padawan does make some unexpected connections to the ever expanding timeline, especially with The High Republic in a meaningful way. Obi-Wan’s decision to discover the uncharted planet is motivated by a very well known character from the all-new era of Star Wars, which is not just a clever story driver, but also forever shapes the characterization of Obi-Wan. Padawan is also home to an iconic introduction between Obi-Wan and one of his best friends. Their accidental acquaintance fits nicely into the main plot, further developing their relationship from Attack of the Clones and Brotherhood.

Arguably, Padawan hits the spot for young adult readers, but adults will also appreciate the character development for Obi-Wan Kenobi and his fascinating journey to the hidden planet (and let’s not forget the gorgeous cover art by Charlie Bowater). Are you ready to journey into an uncharted planet alongside young Obi-Wan? Then make sure to grab a copy of this must read book (also available in audiobook format, narrated by the energetic Gary Furlong) and let us know your thoughts on our social media channels.