A good read for Star Wars fans, with a few things to watch out for.
Plot
As still more Jedi fall to the mysterious illness that turns against their friends and families, exiled Jedi Grand Master Luke Skywalker and his son Ben seek aid from a mysterious alien race in a dangerous star system.
Morality
Ben displays disobedience to his father, but this is discussed and learned from.
Spiritual Content
The Force, a nebulous sort of power that can be accessed by some beings for good or ill, is, as usual, at the center of the spiritual focus of the Star Wars universe. In this book, we are presented with an alien race's perception of the Force, not as dark or light, as the Jedi believe it to be, but as a rainbow. Luke comments that, while he is usually respectful of the religious views of others, he cannot accept the Force as a rainbow as a teaching that can be held by Jedi.
We are also exposed to the teachings of the Sith, who embrace fear and hatred as ways to power.
Violence
Compared to many of the Star Wars books, this was fairly mild. There is, however, some violence, of Jedi against Jedi, Jedi against the populace, and animal against human. There is also a discussion about the cruelty of raising animals to be killers. An animal is nearly murdered for no other reason than to teach its owner a lesson.
Drug and Alcohol Content
Some drinking, but not to excess.
Sexual Content
Jaina and Jag are dating and stay at an inn. Some kissing also takes place.
Crude or Profane Language or Content
All swear words used are invented words for the Star Wars universe. We also get a couple of phrases like "Han swore badly."
Conclusion
Omen is a fun read, and Golden displays a sense of humor that is too often absent in Star Wars books. Additionally, we get to spend some time with the Solo family and Han and Leia's granddaughter Allana. All in all, the book should be a pleasant read for most Star Wars fans.
This review is brought to you by Kristi.
