Star Wars Journals: Episode 1 #03: Darth Maul

Actually, I didn't think I'd like this book much, since Episode 1 is pretty far down on my list of favorite Star Wars movies, and especially since it was about Darth Maul, who I hated because he killed Qui-Gon Jinn, who I liked. I was completly surprised when, not only did I find it interesting, but I LOVED it! It drew me in totally, so that I read the intire thing in basically one sitting, and I simply couldn't put the book down, to the point where I actually got myself grounded for reading this book instead of doing my chores. It gave incredible insights into not only Darth Maul, but also the essence of the Dark Side itself, including some flashbacks into his training as a small boy, which show how it can be so easy to make a powerful impression on a young child. The overall plot of the book would probably make the most sense to someone who knows Episode 1 fairly well, which unfortunatly I do not, so much of what he was doing and why went over my head, but it was interesting enough to make me want to watch the movie again, so I could understand it better. But this didn't really matter at the time, since the most important part of the book was the insight into Darth Maul and the Dark Side. Star Wars fans should not let themselves be deterred from this book because of its short length and apparant "kiddy" exterior. This book is, in reality deep and at times disturbing, especially I think for kids in the indended age range (9-12). I'm fifteen and I had no problem reading this book, and I think that maybe it is geared towards older readers because of the fact that Darth Maul is evil and this book does not hesitate to bring this to light, but it is in such a way that may be difficult for younger readers to understand, and even frightening to them.

Intrestingly enough, this book was written by the same author of the always exciting Jedi Apprentice series.I'm a pretty big darth maul fan, and up until the journal was released, theres so much you just dont know about him.Now this book is packed with cool stuff.For example, you'll find out what darth maul ran into on his way to tatooine to intercept the jedi.It will give insight into all the training darth sidious made him do.Some of the stuff may disturb kids in the recommended level(9-12).But all that aside, i recommend this book to any star wars fan, or anyone that likes darth maul in the least.Oh, and the ending is especially cool.What happened when darth maul died?how could he finish his journal>does he finish it?or.did someone finish it for him???Haha buy the book and find out.All this being said, this is one of the best star wars books ive read, and ive read a lot.May the force be with you.

This book was great! It was interesting see what Sith have togothrough. It's difficult believe that Maul was a young boy once. And Ifound Mauls battle with the Togorian pirates interesting. His thoughts and feelings expresed on his battle with Qui-Gon, his own training, and how he has embraced the dark side... and the dark side has embraced him. All the training he went through, even as a young boy. The maneuvers he performs every day. No wonder hate is bred in him. "Defeated by a young boy, a naive girl, and a Jedi apprentice. It was not a good day." If only he was defeated by a certain Jedi Master as well. I hope Jude Watson also writes journals for Qui-Gon Jinn and Obi-Wan Kenobi. THAT will be something.

Don't be fooled by the font size and the length -- this is NOT a children's book. It is a detailed look at a violent and sociopathic life, and it does not pull any punches; if this adult thought it disturbing, young readers will certainly find it to be more so. Having said that... wow. Watson again displays her remarkable ability to flesh out a character whose inner thoughts feelings are a mystery to us (she's done the same with the young Obi-Wan Kenobi in the excellent Jedi Apprentice series -- run, don't walk, to check it out). We are shown bits of Maul's abusive childhood, but Watson's Maul does not come out of it looking entirely like a victim. She also adds wry humour when the reader least expects it. In additon to fleshing out the events of "Star Wars: The Phantom Menace" and clearing up a few mysteries for fans, Watson shows us how Maul ticks without really taking away any of his deadly mystique. An excellent addition to the Journals series, and I certainly hope we'll be seeing Obi-Wan and Qui-Gon reveal their secrets in future installments.

I was totally impressed and blown away by this book. It is a glimpse into the mind of very mysterious character, as well as a look into the dark side of the force. I feel that Jude did a wonderful job capturing and portraying the essence that is Lord Maul.I wouldn't recommend this book for young readers, however, as there is quite a bit of violence in it (to be expected from the dark side), and some of the training flashbacks could be especially disturbing to young readers. This book does a great job of fleshing out Darth Maul, and adding additional depth to the character we see in the movie. The flashbacks to his training as a young boy with Darth Sidious are especially intriguing. It gives us insight and compassion into how events shape a young life. There were moments that I actually felt sorry for the young Maul!I highly recommend this book to any Star Wars fan, and especially to Darth Maul fans everywhere, young and old (I am in my mid 20s, and I was captivated by the story.)Darth Maul fans, Run, don't walk, and get this book!