Journey to the Force Awakens

The series "Journey to The Force Awakens", is a comprehensive line up of novels, comic books and other media, released by Disney+–Lucasfilm Press, Marvel Comics, and others. It's built around the gap between "Episode VI: Return of the Jedi" and "Episode VII: The Force Awakens," aiming to build up to the latter and provide context and backstory. It's a rich lore that is both intriguing and insightful as it tells the story between two significant timelines in the Star Wars universe.

The first book, "Star Wars: Aftermath" by Chuck Wendig, tells the story post the Battle of Endor. The Rebels are rejoicing their victory over the Empire while the latter is in disarray. The narrative introduces readers to a host of new characters both from the Rebellion and the Empire as they grapple with this new reality. This book takes primary place in understanding the trajectory that Star Wars universe would take leading up to The Force Awakens.

"Moving Target: A Princess Leia Adventure" by Cecil Castellucci walks readers through the experiences of the much-loved Princess Leia as she spearheads a seemingly impossible mission. Set between "The Empire Strikes Back" and "Return of the Jedi," this novel serves as an interesting filler piece giving fans the much-needed context on events involving the iconic princess.

"Lost Stars" a young adult space opera novel by Claudia Gray introduces two primary characters Thane Kyrell and Ciena Ree, childhood friends from the same planet but later find themselves on opposite factions during the original trilogy’s timeline. This novel, while being classified as young adult fiction, is appreciated by all ages for its deep portrayal of characters and conflicts.

Another piece to throw light on the experiences of the Original Trilogy's iconic characters is the novel "Smuggler's Run: A Han Solo & Chewbacca Adventure" by Greg Rucka. This novel offers insights into the dynamic partnership of Han Solo and Chewbacca in the face of intricate Interstellar missions. As the title suggests, this novel showcases a thrilling smuggling run that puts the universe's most dynamic duo into the spotlight.

There is also a collection of Marvel Comics mini-series and one-shots which continue to narrate stories around the characters from the original trilogy. Among these are "Shattered Empire" that picks up immediately after Return of the Jedi and "C-3PO: The Phantom Limb" which finally explains why the droid had a red arm in The Force Awakens. Additionally, there are numerous children's books and guidebooks which further delve into the Star Wars universe leading up to the seventh episode.

"Journey to The Force Awakens" adds a considerable amount of depth to the Star Wars universe, providing fans with essential insights into the events and mysterious 30 years between "Return of the Jedi" and "The Force Awakens." Their combined narratives significantly contribute to a deeper appreciation and understanding of the epic sci-fi universe.