ids love Star Wars, and Star Wars loves kids! Which is why Star Wars middle-grade books are the perfect way for padawans to immerse themselves in the ever-expanding universe that is Star Wars.
From the Jedi Temple on Coruscant to the far reaches of the Outer Rim, middle-grade books are jam-packed with action, humor, and heart. Whether you’re a fan of classic Star Wars characters like Anakin Skywalker and Obi-Wan Kenobi or new characters like Vernestra Rwoh and Ram Jamoram from The High Republic, there’s something for everyone in this epic category.
Imagine exploring exotic worlds, encountering fearsome creatures, and learning the ways of the Force. Star Wars middle-grade books take you on a journey beyond your wildest imagination, offering a glimpse into the mysterious and mystical world of a galaxy far, far away.
And it’s not just about daring rescues, wild pirates, and battles with monsters. These books delve into the emotional journeys of their young characters, letting readers see the galaxy through their eyes as they face the darkness, hold to the light, and learn the meaning of loyalty and friendship.
Which is why adults love these books too.
When it comes to finding the right book for you or someone you care about, navigating the full archive of Star Wars books can sometimes be confusing. That’s why Youtini was created in the first place. It’s our mission to make reading Star Wars books as easy and enjoyable as possible.
So strap in, because we’ve compiled the top guide to Star Wars middle-grade books in the galaxy!
What is Star Wars middle-grade fiction?
Middle-grade fiction is a category that refers to the age of its readers and protagonists (main characters). It’s written for 8- to 12-year-olds, but because kids generally read up and enjoy characters a little older than they are, these books often have protagonists in the 10- to 13-year-old range.
But don’t let this category fool you! Young adults and grownups love middle-grade books too.
Here are some general characteristics of middle-grade fiction:
- Protagonists are often in the 10- to 13-year-old range.
- Can be dark and scary, but without graphic violence or profanity.
- Word count around 30,000–50,000.
- The voice is often in the third person.
- Explores themes of friendship, courage, and loyalty.
- No sexuality, but there might be a crush or a little first kiss.
- Endings have closure and end with hope.
These are general guidelines, but it’s a big galaxy out there, and rules can sometimes be bent.
One thing is certain: When it comes to Star Wars middle-grade books, danger abounds and the stakes are high. These kids are taking their first real steps into a greater world, and they’re experiencing life-changing events. It’s a time of peril and possibility, heartbreak and intense, powerful friendships. After all, it’s a time of war, and battles are raging all over the galaxy.
How to recognize a Star Wars middle-grade book
So you’re searching for a Star Wars middle-grade book, and you’ve come across different designations: middle-grade, junior reader, or young reader? How do you know which one to choose? Which classification is actually for middle-grade readers?
How about all three? Isn’t this just like Star Wars?
It’s no surprise that Star Wars books can be confusing, and when it comes to middle-grade books, things can get even trickier. Star Wars Publishing classifies books for non-adults as Junior Readers, but this can encompass a broad age range. Everything from a book for six-year-olds to young adults may be given this classification.
This can make trying to find the right book for the right person challenging. But never fear, for Youtini is here! We’ve compiled THE best guide to Star Wars middle-grade books in the galaxy.
Let’s break it down.
In the Star Wars publishing universe, middle-grade books can go by three different identifiers:
- Junior Reader
- Young Reader
- Middle-Grade.
All three can apply to middle-grade books. So how do you know if a book is the right level for you? Usually the cover is a dead giveaway. Middle-grade books have a certain style and look. They’re not quite as sophisticated as Young Adult but not so cutesy as covers for even younger readers.
If the cover doesn’t clue you in then and there, look for any of the above three classifications; however, be aware that sometimes Junior Reader and Young Reader refer to kids younger than eight years old. If you really want to know for sure, you can look the book up on Youtini, Amazon, or the publisher’s site to see the recommended reading age.
Or, better yet, refer back to this guide. It covers enough middle-grade books to keep you reading for years!
Why adults love Star Wars middle-grade fiction too!
It’s important to know that this category isn’t just for kids. Adults love these books too, especially when they want a fast-paced read packed with a galaxy of hearts and nuggets of lore. If you love reading about exotic planets, perilous monsters, treasure hunts, pirates, and space battles, it’s all here in these books. And if you’re in the mood for a happy ending and some hope, look no further.
Youtini team member Caroline Vincent sums up the power of MG books beautifully:
"What I enjoy most about middle-grade books is that they're not afraid to tackle hard, serious topics, but there's always some fun and whimsy to balance it out. And I think that's just the truest reflection of life: hard times are unavoidable, but there is also always fun to be had. And I think Star Wars in particular is the perfect universe to explore this. It provides a landscape of both true devastation and the most powerful versions of hope. It allows space for characters to sit with their feelings but also empowers them to do what they can about their circumstances. And I feel like that is what middle-grade books do so well."
Plus, they’re a great way for adults to share their love of Star Wars with the next generation. Reading these books with our children or other young people in our lives can provide a bonding experience and pay forward our love of Star Wars.
Now let’s jump into Youtini’s recommended middle-grade books!
There are far too many Star Wars middle-grade books to list them all here, but we’ve combed our archives to bring you some gems to help you get started:
If you like Star Wars movies:
All of our favorite Star Wars films have junior adaptations.
Junior Film Star Wars Novelizations: Episodes 1–9 plus Rogue One and Solo: A Star Wars Story
by Various Authors
Experience the epic saga of Star Wars like never before with the junior film novelizations. Follow along as young Anakin Skywalker rises to power as a Jedi, Darth Vader terrorizes the galaxy, Luke, Leia, and Han fight the Empire, and new heroes emerge to join the battle against evil.
From The Phantom Menace to The Rise of Skywalker, Rogue One to Solo: A Star Wars Story, these novelizations bring all the action, drama, and emotion of the films to life in a format perfect for middle-grade readers.
For more on the film novelizations, check out Youtini’s guide here.
If you like the Star Wars Disney+ Shows:
The Mandalorian Junior Novelizations: Season 1 and Season 2
by Joe Schreiber
Dive into the world of The Mandalorian and follow a masked bounty hunter on a wild adventure to protect the galaxy’s most precious asset: The Child. With daring heists, intense battles, and some of the coolest characters in the galaxy, including Shock Trooper Cara Dune, Greef Karga, and the ruthless Moff Gideon, this action-packed novelization is perfect for adventure-seeking middle-grade readers. Get ready for a page-turning journey that you won’t want to put down!
For even more on The Mandalorian, check out our Youtini guide here.
The Book of Boba Fett Junior Novel
by Joe Schreiber
If you loved the hit series The Book of Boba Fett, then you’ll want to read this novelization. After surviving the Sarlacc pit, Boba Fett is taken in by a tribe of Tuskens. But when the tribe is slaughtered, Boba seeks revenge. His adventures will lead him to the deadly bounty hunter Fennec Shand and Jabba the Hutt’s forbidden old palace. Yet, the fight for power on Tatooine is more complicated than he thought, and Boba must call upon old allies to avenge his tribe. Why is Boba risking it all for Tuskens? And can an old bounty hunter ever really change? Find out in this exciting tale!
For more on Boba Fett, check out our Youtini guide here.
If you like The Clone Wars:
The Clone Wars: Stories of Light and Dark
by Various Authors
War is raging, and our favorite heroes are fighting for the very fate of the galaxy. In this canon short story collection, eleven Star Wars authors retell their favorite stories from the Emmy Award-winning The Clone Wars series. All your favorite characters are here. Anakin Skywalker, Yoda, Obi-Wan Kenobi, Ahsoka Tano, Captain Rex, Darth Maul, Count Dooku, and more Experience events from differing points of view to learn how various characters experienced our favorite episodes of The Clone Wars.
These stories transport us on unforgettable journeys, from attempted assassinations to stolen bounty, from hard-learned lessons to tragic romances. If you love The Clone Wars, you won’t want to miss out on this incredible adventure!
Star Wars: The Boba Fett Series: Clone Wars Novels
by Terry Bisson and Elizabeth Hand. This is a seven-book series.
Join Boba on a thrilling journey as he battles foes, makes dangerous allies, and strives to become one of the most feared bounty hunters in the galaxy!
The Clone Wars are raging, and Boba Fett is just a teenager trying to make his way through a war-torn universe. With his father, Jango Fett, gone, Boba is forced to fend for himself. He’s determined to follow in his dad’s footsteps, but he quickly learns that the path of a bounty hunter is more deadly than he ever imagined. In this seven-book series, it will take all Boba's wits and courage to make a name for himself and seek the vengeance he so desperately desires.
Book 1 begins with Boba Fett: Part 1 Survival.
For more on The Clone Wars, check out our YouTube guide here.
If you like Star Wars Rebels:
Star Wars Rebels: Servants of the Empire Series
(ebook) by Jason Fry
Follow Zare Leonis in this four-book series as he embarks on a journey to save his sister and bring down the Empire. Starting as a cadet at Lothal’s Imperial Academy, Zare is secretly working to uncover the Empire’s plans and discover the whereabouts of his missing sister, a fellow cadet. This beloved series brings us dangerous foes, shady criminals, a secret society, and even fan favorite Ezra Bridger!
Amidst great peril and tests of loyalty, we’ll discover just how far Zare will go to save his sister and expose the evil of the Empire.
Book 1 begins with Servants of the Empire: Edge of the Galaxy.
For more on Rebels, check out our Youtini guide here.
If you like the Resistance:
Spark of the Resistance: A Journey to Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker
by Justina Ireland
From the isolated planet of Minfar, a desperate cry for help rings out through space. A kind and peaceful species, the Zixon, need protection from the brutal First Order, who threaten to decimate their way of life.
Rey, Poe, Rose, and BB-8 have orders to retrieve desperately needed supplies for the struggling Resistance and return to base immediately. But when they intercept the Zixon’s distress signal, our heroes will defy orders to protect those in need and answer the call!
Braving the deadliest of challenges, including stormtroopers, flying beasts, and even a Star Destroyer, they’ll fight together in order to defeat the First Order and keep the peaceful Zixon of Minfar safe.
With illustrations by comics artist Phil Noto!
Star Wars: The Last Jedi: Cobalt Squadron
by Elizabeth Wein
Follow the adventures of the skilled bomber pilots and technicians of the Resistance. Among them are the Tico sisters, Rose and Paige, who have survived the invasion of their home world by the First Order. While on a mission to provide aid to the Alterra system, the sisters meet another family that is on the run. Together, they must use their wits, courage, and teamwork to outsmart the enemy and help those in need.
Set during the events of The Force Awakens, Cobalt Squadron offers readers a glimpse into the backstory of the Tico sisters. It sheds light on Rose’s profound loss and resolute determination in The Last Jedi. If the opening scene of The Last Jedi moved you, this book will make it even more impactful.
Illustrations by Phil Noto
For more on the Resistance, check out Youtini’s reading collection here.
If you like the Jedi and the Sith:
Star Wars: Stories of Jedi and Sith
by Various Authors
The age-old battle of good versus evil rages in a galaxy far, far away. In this anthology of short stories, ten beloved authors have crafted original tales that pit the noble Jedi against the treacherous Sith in epic lightsaber duels. From iconic characters such as Luke Skywalker and Darth Vader to fan favorites like Obi-Wan Kenobi and Darth Maul, readers will be transported on thrilling adventures through the Star Wars universe.
Beautiful illustrations accompany each tale, making this a must-read for fans of all ages.
For more on the Sith, check out Youtini’s reading collection here.
Star Wars: The Wrath of Darth Maul
by Ryder Windham
Darth Maul’s story is a savage one, fueled by rage and honed by the dark side. He was just a child when he was taken and trained in the ways of the Sith. Now, after years of secret plotting, Maul and his wicked master are ready to exact their revenge upon the Jedi Order.
Finally, the chilling and mysterious story of Darth Maul is unveiled, offering a glimpse into the shadowy world of one of the most frightening characters in the Star Wars universe.
For more on Darth Maul, check out Youtini’s reading collection here.
Star Wars: The Rise and Fall of Darth Vader
by Ryder Windham. A Legends Stand-Alone Novel
Follow the incredible story of Anakin Skywalker, from his beginnings as a slave to his rise as the mighty Darth Vader. This exciting adventure is told by bestselling author Ryder Windham and spans all six Star Wars movies, including the parts of the story that were never revealed before. With action-packed scenes, lightsaber duels, and thrilling space battles, this novel is a must-read for any fan who can’t get enough of the most powerful dark sider of all — Darth Vader.
For more on Darth Vader, check out Youtini’s reading collection here.
If you like the Millenium Falcon:
Flight of the Falcon #1: Lando’s Luck
by Justina Ireland
Get ready for an out-of-this-world adventure with the charming Lando Calrissian and his trusty droid companion, L3-37, aboard the legendary Millennium Falcon!
When Lando’s smuggling antics land him in hot water on the planet Hynestia, he’s offered a deal by the queen: deliver the Solstice Globe to the Empire or suffer imprisonment. Easy choice, right? Wrong! Things take a turn when Princess Rinetta sneaks aboard the Falcon and demands they return the globe to its rightful home planet, which is on the brink of collapse without it.
Will Lando do what’s right for a dying planet or take care of himself and deliver the globe as promised? But with L3-37 by his side and the fate of the world in the balance, there’s no time for hesitation. Find out if Lando will make the right call in this action-packed adventure.
For more on Lando Calrissian, check out Youtini’s reading collection here.
Flight of the Falcon #2: The Pirate’s Price
by Lou Anders
Get ready to buckle up and blast off into an intergalactic adventure with the one and only pirate Hondo Ohnaka! He’s here to share some seriously cool tales about the Millennium Falcon, and you won’t want to miss a second of it. He’ll regale you with stories about his time aboard the ship—and even a few occasions when he got to fly it himself! As if that’s not enough, Hondo has a few surprises up his sleeve, including tales about Han Solo and our favorite Wookie, Chewbacca. But there are also some newbies in the mix, and they’re just as wild and wacky as you’d hope.
So crack open that book and enjoy Hondo’s fun and exciting tales!
If you like Star Wars: The High Republic:
Star Wars: The High Republic Middle-Grade Novels Phase 1
Phase 1 of The High Republic takes place roughly 200 years before The Phantom Menace.
The High Republic: A Test of Courage
by Justina Ireland (Book 1)
It’s the golden age of the High Republic, and 15-year-old Jedi Knight Vernestra Rwoh is tasked with her first mission: supervise 11-year-old Avon Starros on a cruiser en route to the unveiling of Starlight Beacon. But when their ship is sabotaged, Vernestra, her padawan Imri Cantaros, Avon, and a grieving ambassador’s son escape to a nearby moon, where they encounter unheard-of peril in the surrounding forest.
If they’re going to survive, they’ll have to work together. But as grief and anger threaten to tear them apart, things go from bad to worse when Nihil marauders show up with the worst of intentions. Does Vernestra have what it takes to protect everyone and complete her mission?
This is an exciting and heartbreaking read.
The High Republic: Race to Crashpoint Tower
by Daniel José Older (Book 2)
Ram Jomaram isn’t your typical Jedi. While he might not be the best with a lightsaber, he’s a total whiz when it comes to tinkering and putting machines together. He’d much rather be in his grimy garage with his favorite Bonbraks, covered in grease and surrounded by tools, than gallivanting around the galaxy on epic Jedi missions.
But when the Republic Fair on Valo is sabotaged by evil Nihil pirates, Ram has to put down his wrench and spring into action. The stakes are high, and the fate of the fair and all its visitors rests on his shoulders. With the help of some fan favorites like Lula Talisola, Ram must find a way to get the vital Crashpoint Tower back online and save the day.
Will Ram be able to step out of his comfort zone and rise to the challenge, or will the Nihil pirates get the best of him? With danger around every corner and time running out, Ram fights to send a call for help before it’s too late.
The High Republic: Mission to Disaster
by Justina Ireland (Book 3)
Jedi Knight Vernestra "Vern" Rwoh has been busy training Padawan Imri Cantaros. They both believe the Nihil marauders are routed and on the run. But when they receive word that their friend, young scientist Avon Starros, has been kidnapped in a Nihil attack on Port Haileap, everything changes. The Jedi leap into action to rescue Avon, while she uses her own cunning in order to survive her captors and thwart their evil schemes.
This novel is full of danger, excitement, and adventure, yet it also plumbs the emotional depths of these young characters as they strive to overcome great challenges and stay true to themselves and their friends.
Star Wars: The High Republic Middle-Grade Novels Phase 2
Phase 2 of The High Republic travels back 150 hundred years before Phase 1.
The High Republic: Quest for the Hidden City
by George Mann (Book 1)
It is an age of exploration. A time when pilots chart new hyperspace routes and Pathfinder teams explore new worlds. When a Pathfinder team goes missing, Jedi Knight Silandra Sho and her padawan, Rooper Nitani, are dispatched to locate the missing team. Their search takes them to the devastated planet Gloam, rumored to be home to mythical murderous beasts.
Meanwhile, Dass Leffbruk and his dad, a hyperspace prospector, have crash-landed in the wilds of Gloam and are stranded in a dangerous wasteland. With his father injured, it’s up to Dass to find food, chart a way out, and fight off the terrifying monsters that attack when the sun goes down.
Can the Jedi brave the dangers of Gloam and find the lost Pathfinder team, or will they too fall victim to the planet's dark secrets? And will Dass and his dad ever find a way off the planet?
Quest for the Hidden Cityis absolutely laden with mysteries, monsters, hidden cities, love, heart, and courage. It’s a favorite of High Republic middle-grade books.
The High Republic: Quest for Planet X
by Tessa Gratton (Book 2)
Join three fearless explorers as they embark on a secret quest full of twists, turns, and excitement. Dass Leffbruk and Sky Graf enter the Republic’s most exciting competition to chart new hyperspace lanes. But they have a hidden mission that is far more important: find the mythical planet X.
With the help of Jedi padawan Rooper Nitani, the trio sets out on a mission that will take them on a journey they never expected. Challenges arise when they encounter members of the Path of the Open Hand. Our trio will have to decide whether to continue their quest or team up with the Jedi and save the galaxy before it’s too late.
For more on The High Republic, check out our Youtini High Republic Headquarters here.
If you like Star Wars gaming:
Star Wars Hunters: Battle for the Arena
by Mark Oshiro
Get ready for adventure on the planet Vespaara! The arena is calling, and the competition is fierce. Rieve, a force-sensitive orphan from Corellia, is a new Hunter battling before roaring crowds in the arena. It’s taking all she’s got to control her force powers and outrun her past. But when a mysterious stranger begins stalking the arena, she’ll have to reach for all the confidence she’s got in order to survive.
Hunters is an action-packed journey filled with thrills, chills, and original illustrations based on the game characters!
If you like young Anakin Skywalker and Obi-Wan Kenobi:
Star Wars: Jedi Quest Series
by Jude Watson. e-book: 10 Book Series
The Jedi Quest series takes place between The Phantom Menace and Attack of the Clones. It follows Obi-Wan Kenobi and his young padawan Anakin Skywalker through thrilling adventures.
Together they face tough challenges as Obi-Wan tries to live up to his former master, Qui-Gon Jinn, while Anakin struggles with his training and that of the other Jedi padawans.
This series doesn’t shy away from complex plots and darker character developments. With individual story arcs and an overarching villain — the Jedi-hating Granta Omega — you’re in for an action-packed ride!
This series begins with "The Way of the Apprentice." If you’re an Anakin fan, this is the one!
For more on Anakin Skywalker, check out our Youtini reading collection here.
If you like Post Order 66:
The Last of the Jedi Series
by Jude Watson ebook, 10 Book Series
Takes place between Revenge of the Sith and A New Hope.
Jude Watson's 10-book series begins with Obi-Wan Kenobi after the devastation of Order 66. While trying to protect a young Luke Skywalker, he discovers that a former padawan apprentice may have survived Order 66. The series then follows the adventures of Ferus Olin, a former padawan rival of Anakin Skywalker, as he builds a fledgling rebellion against the nascent Empire, aided by unlikely allies such as streetwise Dexter Jettster and Siri Tachi.
Along the way, Obi-Wan Kenobi offers occasional guidance, adding to the excitement and intrigue of this thrilling tale.
This series begins with Obi-Wan Kenobi in The Last of the Jedi, Chapter 1: The Desperate Mission.
For more on Order 66, check out ourYoutini's reading collection is here.
If you like Star Wars Myths & Fables:
Star Wars Myths and Fables
by George Mann
Immerse yourself in a wondrously illustrated collection, brimming with myths, fables, and legends from the far reaches of the galaxy. Journey through the planet Batuu and beyond as you discover the stories of witches and ghosts, wraiths and Wookies, droids, dragons, and heroic knights.
These stories are wonderfully written by George Mann and will appeal to readers of all ages. Mann magically captures the fairy tale feeling, and each story has an incredible classic illustration by artist Grant Griffin.
Youtini gives this one a rating of INCREDIBLE.
Note: The Target-exclusive edition contains three extra stories, and the special Galaxy’s Edge collector’s edition has an additional three more.
Star Wars Dark Legends
by George Mann
Be warned: Dark Legends is dark. Monsters, fiends, beasts, and fears lurk within these pages that boldly explore the darker side of the galaxy. This collection of tales teems with eerie folklore and spine-chilling ghost stories that might have kept a young Luke and Leia awake at night.
Crafted by author George Mann and illustrated by artist Grant Griffin, the same creative duo who brought us Star Wars Myths & Fables, these seven spooky tales bring horror and Star Wars together in utterly original ways. Griffin’s moody illustrations evoke an otherworldly aesthetic, blending classic archetypes with a cosmic flair, and feature, among others, Darth Vader and The Grand Inquisitor. You’ve been warned. Dark Legends is not for the faint of heart!
For more on Star Wars myths, check out this Youtini page here.
If you can’t get enough of the Skywalkers:
Star Wars: The Skywalker Saga
by Delilah Dawson
Embark on a journey through the greatest saga of all time with this stunningly illustrated Treasury. This collection offers a unique retelling of Episodes I–VIII from the perspectives of Anakin, Luke, Leia, and Rey, with detailed illustrations from the movies throughout its pages. Fantastic artwork by the talented Brian Rood makes this volume extra special. (Episode IX is not included.)
If you love Luke, Leia, and Han Solo:
A New Hope: The Princess, the Scoundrel, and the Farm Boy
by Alexandra Bracken.
War rages in the galaxy. Despite the Rebel Alliance’s hard-won victories against the Empire, their future is looking bleak. The Empire is putting the finishing touches on their most powerful weapon yet—the Death Star. With the fate of the galaxy hanging in the balance, the greatest hope for the rebels is an unlikely trio: a fierce princess, a daring scoundrel, and a humble farm boy.
In The Princess, The Scoundrel, and The Farm Boy, you’ll discover even more about Leia, Han, and Luke as these beloved characters take on the sinister forces of the Empire. With Bracken’s dynamic storytelling, you’ll feel as though you’re right alongside them, dodging blaster fire and saving the galaxy from total destruction!
If you liked Star Wars: Rogue One:
Star Wars: The Guardians of the Whills
by Greg Rucka
Beneath the banner of "Junior Novel" lies a gripping and thought-provoking story set in the period before Rogue One. The tale follows the struggles of the Guardians of the Whills, Chirrut Îmwe and Baze Malbus, as they navigate the occupation and decline of the Holy City of Jedha. As the Empire’s menacing presence looms over them, Baze and Chirrut try to protect what they can while grappling with weighty themes such as resistance, violence, and the cost of freedom.
When "The General," Saw Gerrera, offers them an alternate path to freedom, one perhaps paved in blood, Chirrut and Baze will see an opportunity to rebuild their sacred city, but at what cost, and is it a price they’re willing to pay?
For more about Rogue One, check out our Youtini reading collection here.
Conclusion
The vast world of Star Wars middle-grade books has something for everyone. These books are mythic, exciting reads for all ages. They offer thrilling journeys, exotic planets, fantastic creatures, and a world full of heart and friendship to all those who brave their pages. Plus plenty of lore!
If you’re a middle schooler yourself, choose an adventure and jump in. And if you’re all grown up — is anyone ever really? — read a tale for the simple, pure, spellbinding pleasure of it. Remember! This is your chance to share the love of Star Wars with the next generation.
So grab a book, find a comfy spot, and take a journey to a galaxy far, far away.
