Curious about the timeline of Star Wars canon books? This guide breaks down the official chronological order, from the High Republic to the sequel trilogy. Whether you’re a newbie or a lifelong Jedi, we’ve got your ultimate reading roadmap covered. No confusing jargon—just clear, fun storytelling. Explore where each book fits in the galaxy’s history and why it matters. Plus, find the best places to start your journey. Discover hidden gems and fan favorites in a galaxy not so far away. Time to make your reading order strong with the Force
What’s the Timeline of Star Wars Canon Books—And Why Should You Care?
So, you’ve seen the movies. Maybe watched the series too. But now, you’re itching to dive into the Star Wars galaxy through books. Smart move!
Books expand the universe in incredible ways—introducing new heroes, juicy backstories, and unseen planets. But there’s a catch: the timeline can feel like decoding a Sith prophecy.
Don’t worry. This guide lays out the timeline of Star Wars canon books in a way that’s easy, fun, and spoiler-free.
What Are Star Wars Canon Books?
Let’s keep it simple.
Canon means official, as in books approved by Lucasfilm to fit within the movie timelines. Everything listed here is part of the post-2014 canon (after Disney hit the reboot button). That means no Legends (the old stuff), just the real-deal galactic history.
The Timeline of Star Wars Canon Books: Era by Era
Ready to explore the galaxy in story order? Here’s how the timeline unfolds:
1. The High Republic (200 Years Before Episode I)
The Jedi are at their peak. Think golden age vibes—more lightsabers, fewer Sith.
Key Books:
- Light of the Jedi by Charles Soule
- Into the Dark by Claudia Gray
- The Rising Storm by Cavan Scott
Why it matters:
You see the Jedi Order before it all fell apart. Lots of new characters and high-stakes space drama.
2. Fall of the Jedi (Prequels Era)
Anakin’s turning emo. The Clone Wars rage on. Trust issues everywhere.
Key Books:
- Master & Apprentice by Claudia Gray
- Queen’s Shadow by E.K. Johnston
- Brotherhood by Mike Chen
Why it matters:
These fill in the emotional gaps between Episodes I-III and make Padmé, Obi-Wan, and Anakin even more real.
3. Reign of the Empire (Between Episodes III & IV)
The Empire takes over. The Jedi go into hiding. The galaxy gets dark.
Key Books:
- Catalyst: A Rogue One Novel by James Luceno
- Tarkin by James Luceno
- Thrawn by Timothy Zahn
Why it matters:
You’ll see how the Empire tightens its grip—and how Rebels start fighting back.
4. Age of Rebellion (Original Trilogy)
Luke, Leia, Han. You know the drill. But there’s more to the story.
Key Books:
- A New Dawn by John Jackson Miller
- Battlefront: Twilight Company by Alexander Freed
- From a Certain Point of View (short stories)
Why it matters:
These give voice to side characters and show what life’s like beyond the main films.
5. New Republic (Post-Episode VI)
The Empire’s toast, but peace doesn’t come easily.
Key Books:
- Bloodline by Claudia Gray
- Aftermath trilogy by Chuck Wendig
- Shadow of the Sith by Adam Christopher
Why it matters:
Leia’s leadership shines. Plus, you’ll understand why the First Order rises.
6. Rise of the First Order (Sequel Era)
Rey’s rise, Kylo’s fall. The Resistance fights for hope.
Key Books:
- Phasma by Delilah S. Dawson
- Resistance Reborn by Rebecca Roanhorse
- The Rise of Skywalker: Expanded Edition by Rae Carson
Why it matters:
These books fill plot holes and add depth to the sequel’s characters.
Want to Read in Chronological Order? Start Here:
Here’s a quick timeline cheat sheet to guide your reading:
- Light of the Jedi (High Republic)
- Master & Apprentice (Pre-Episode I)
- Queen’s Peril
- Thrawn
- Catalyst
- A New Dawn
- Battlefront
- Aftermath
- Bloodline
- Phasma
- Resistance Reborn
You can find the full visual timeline on Youtini — a fan-favorite site that’s a Jedi holocron for Star Wars readers.
Tips for New Readers
- Start where you like. The timeline is there to help, not trap you.
- Pick a character you love and follow their book appearances.
- Don’t stress about finishing everything. Even Yoda would take a break.
Why These Books Matter
The canon books give heart to the universe. You’ll laugh, cry, and maybe yell at a Wookiee.
And guess what? The new TV shows are tying into these books more than ever.
So, reading them now? That’s like having Jedi knowledge before everyone else.
FAQs: Star Wars Canon Book Timeline
Q1: Should I read the books in release or timeline order?
A: Timeline order is great for immersion. But release order sometimes helps avoid spoilers.
Q2: Are these books kid-friendly?
A: Some are! High Republic has YA books, too. Check age ratings before you start.
Q3: What’s the difference between canon and Legends?
A: Legends are older stories that aren’t “official” anymore. Canon fits the current universe.
Q4: Is there one book I must read first?
A: Try Light of the Jedi or Bloodline—they’re fan favorites and easy entries.
Q5: Where can I track my progress?
A: Use a site like Youtini or Goodreads to stay organized.
