Queen Amidala

Though Luke's journal was my personal favorite of the Journal books, this one was definitely the best written. It was better than Anakin's especially, since this one truly got into the mind of Queen Amidala, whereas Anakin's wasn't as good at bringing out his character (what little he had) or anyone elses. This one however, not only lets us get to know Amidala, but also brings out the other characters in a way that made Episode 1 seem much more interesting than it actually was. It was fascinating to find out more about Amidala,(I didn't previously realize she was only fourteen, in the movie she seemed older!) who I found a very intriguing character in the movie, though I was confused about where and when she was Amidala/Padme. This book answered my questions about that also, tying everything together in a satisfying knot. Also, I found Anakin's character much more interesting in this book than even in his own journal. In the movie especially he irritated me, because he just seemed too cute and sweet, but here he is much more likable. This book would be good for any Star Wars fan, especially those twelve and under.

I wasn't quite sure what to expect when I first bought this book. I can say now that reading it was a most pleasurable experience. Jude Watson has done an admirable job with this journal. It is the deep introspections of a young girl, told shrewdly with a great deal of empathy, not only for Amidala, but for all the characters that she interacts with. The journal displays Amidala's keen insight, and sharp mind, and examines her motives and decisions with great sensitivity. It tells us a little about her background, and her relationships with the people around her. At the end, I felt as though I had discovered a real person.

This journal is really good because it explains all the emotions and character descriptions that the movie didn't give Queen Amidala. This journal is A LOT better than Anakin Skywalker's journal, and has a lot of info on Padmé's past and feelings. Read this book twice so you catch all the details! Also, notice how her feelings towards Qui-Gon changes...

Since in the original Star Wars trilogy there was a great connection between Luke and his "father", I found Queen Amidala's presence in the phantom Menace, Leia's mother, the most refreshing part of TPM. Anakin was annoying in TMP, but seen through the eyes of the future mother of his children he almost seemed adorable. However, I thought it a little odd that she said a nine year old was looking at her the way a man would. Though I understand how wonderful it must have felt to be sincerly declared beautiful (knowing it wasn't just because she was a Queen) my mind kept saying, but he's nine. In ten years it won't matter, but now he's nine. I loved how the Journal gave insights into Naboo's political systems, background on the makeup, and still managed to bring in the emotions of this young girl who has taken on the responsibilities of an Adult at fourteen. Yet, everything from the mention of her grandmother to her interaction with Shimi, not to mention the conflict of behaviors when being the Queen and Padme, reveal a hidden desire (any young ruler would have) to sometimes just be a regular girl. Yet she loves the respect she gets as a queen (hence her conflict with Qui-gon, despite earning her respect in the end.)And it had it's comedy. When Amidala mentions she wanted to beat Qui-Gon over the head with his lightsaber, the mental image had me rolling on the floor laughing. I don't think you realize how young Amidala is or how brave she must have been to take on this reponsibility so young. I think the fact she was an elected ruler and came from a simple family of famers makes her all the more wonderful. A wonderful addition to the female side of the Skywalker family Saga.

First off, this book is written by the author of the Jedi Apprentice novel 'The Dark Rival', Jude Watson, so that should clue you in to great potential here. He has an amazing ability to portray the full depth of the characters from the movie. Second, the sheer beauty of the book must be noted. For only $1 more than the Jedi Apprentice novels, we get a book with ornate page designs on slick glossy paper, filled with pictures of Amidala in her various outfits/disguises. Just the *appearance* of the book is pleasing. I really loved the background that we learn about Amidala. She is the daughter of farmers, who was educated in Theed while living with her paternal grandmother Winama, a weaver, who always told her "Fate is a tangle. Follow one thread." We learn the signficance of many of the court traditions of Naboo, and of Amidala's best friend, Sabe. We learn, unsurprisingly, that Amidala feels that her and Anakin's fates are entwined. Also, there seems to be a strong bond between Amidala/Padme and Shmi. At one point, Amidala remarks that Shmi looks at her as if she is entrusting her son to Amidala's keeping, which confuses her. Amidala looking at Shmi sitting in the starlight, worrying over her son, and Amidala realizing that in this universe a woman can't even keep her child safe is rather haunting as foreshadowing. But by far, the best and most interesting passages are about Amidala's thoughts on Qui-Gon Jinn: "He's a man who gives off an aura of deep calm. Yet his is the most alert presence I've ever experienced. I feel safe with him." (32) Of course, she and Qui-Gon get into disagreements when he dismisses her as merely a spoiled handmaiden. Her annoyance with the Jedi, and her respect for him, come through loud and clear. There is some great introspection on Amidala's part, analyzing the division of her character into Amidala the political figure and Padme the individual. She finally realizes that she must be both Amidala and Padme to be a successful queen. The most surprising information (and especially useful for Episode II and III speculation) is all found in the last Journal entry. In a matter of two days Amidala records three separate conversations with Obi-Wan. It was interesting to see such interaction and close friendship develop between Amidala and Obi-Wan. The movie gave us no hint of this at all! As an adult, I was *amazingly* impressed with this book! It was beautiful, well-written, and gave us valuable information about Amidala and her opinions, and her relationships with others. A fascinating read for children and adults alike!