The Approaching Storm

After reading some of the prior reviews, I had set myself up for a disappointing book. But I was pleasantly surprised by the wonderful writing and flowing story presented here. The story focuses on Luminara, her apprentice Bariss, Obi-Wan, and Anakin as they try to solve a dispute on a backwater planet that may end up tearing apart the entire Republic. Be warned, there is lots of politics in play here, with the intelligent story telling that is found in all the previous Star Wars books set in the Prequel time period including Cloak of Deception, Phantom Menace, and Rogue Planet. This book has plenty of action though, and great new characters including Luminara and her apprentice. The way Obi-Wan and Anakin are characterized make for a great lead in to Episode II. If you're trying to read the books in order, I highly suggest not skipping this one. It gives great insight into the mind of Anakin, and his willingness to break rules and go against the standard Jedi Code. Very enjoyable, and a great addition to the Star Wars universe.

This book had suspense, action, mystery, kept me coming back for more. I couldn't put it down.

I found this book very interesting for setting up the jedi life. I also think it helps show what is happening in EP2. I think if your going to read The Attack Of Clones, you should read this first.

Truly a charismatic book, though it takes place between pages 4 & 5 of ATOC.It is a welcomed addition to this Star Wars fan's library giving a tremendous view into background of events leading to and surrounding Episode II. Even without any space battles this book never failed to challenge my putting it down. I found myself wanting to read a little further each time I tried, just to find out how the two Jedis and their Padawans were to get out of their current quandary. Nice build up for the release of Episode II. Hope every Star Wars fan gets a chance to read this one.

"The Approaching Storm" is a great novel by Alan Dean Foster. Foster, it should be noted, is one of the biggest names in modern sci-fi as well as the ghostwriter of the original 'Star Wars' novelization. He also wrote the first ever Expanded Universe novel.Still, if you're looking for action, this isn't the book for you. There is literally no fighting save for a battle at the very beginning and a battle at the very end. This book takes place directly before Episode II, and as such devotes itself to setting up the political background for the film. It also gives some much needed fleshing out to key prequel characters.Obi-Wan and his apprentice, Anakin, are sent to the remote planet of Ansion to convince them to avoid secceding from the Republic. While the planet itself is insignificant, it is at the center of a huge and complex web of treaties and alliances.They meet the city dwellers, who agree to remain within the Republic if the Jedi will settle their disagreements with the rural nomads. They set out of a journey into the barren, uncivilized deserts to seek out the nomads.This book is set at a slower and relaxing pace than most Star Wars books. However, unlike 'Dark Journey' it still manages to move key character and plot points further. In regards to character development, I really enjoyed the entertainment for the first nomad group. It's not what you'd expect of a Jedi group, and it told something unique about each character. The highlight of the book for me.If you don't mind the slower pace, and enjoy political thrillers of any sort, then be sure to find a copy of 'The Approaching Storm.'