The New Essential Guide to Characters is a reference book published by Del Rey. It was written by Daniel Wallace and illustrated by Michael Sutfin, and was first published on April 23, 2002.

The book provides biographical information on characters from throughout the Star Wars saga, drawn from sources both well-known and obscure.

The Star Wars universe is expanding faster than ever before, and Star Wars: The Essential Guide to Characters has received an exciting new face-lift-with completely updated text and more than a hundred brand new, full-color illustrations by extraordinary new artist Michael Sutfin. This all-new Essential Guide features detailed profiles of more than one hundred and thirty characters from across the Star Wars galaxy, including all of your favorites-such as Luke Skywalker, Han Solo, Princess Leia, Darth Vader, and Mara Jade-as well as, from Episode II: - Jango Fett - Count Dooku - Anakin Skywalker - Zam Wesell And the key players from Star Wars: Episode I The Phantom Menace - Queen Amidala - Qui-Gon Jinn - Mace Windu - Darth Maul Here is complete, updated coverage of the novels from the incredible New Jedi Order and all of the classic movies, books, comics, TV specials, games, and the rest of the Star Wars universe. This must-have book describes the essential history and personal data for each character-with vital statistics, homeworlds, and political affiliations. More characters, more information, brilliant artwork-the Essential Guides are hotter than ever!