By George & Josh Bate
Spring into a new month with a host of exciting Star Wars books, comics, episodes, and more! Below includes a list and description of upcoming Star Wars projects in the month of April 2024. It is important to note that all of these release dates are subject to change.
April 2 – I Am Your Mother/Aau’s Song
This Screen Comix graphic novel adapts the Star Wars: Visions episodes “I Am Your Mother” and “Aau’s Song.”
April 2 – Star Wars Insider: The High Republic: Tales of Enlightenment
Featuring some great cover art by Matt Allsopp, this upcoming Titan Magazines release compiles various High Republic short stories written by George Mann. The publisher’s summary is as follows: “A hardcover collection of Star Wars: The High Republic stories from the pages of Star Wars Insider, written by New York Times bestselling author, George Mann.
A collection of tales set centuries before the birth of Anakin Skywalker featuring Jedi Knights during the era of the glorious High Republic. In addition to six original stories, this collection also includes behind-the-scenes interviews with authors as well as a guide to Phase II of The High Republic publishing initiative.”
April 2 – Star Wars: Dad Jokes: The Best Worst Jokes and Puns from a Galaxy Far, Far Away
If you follow the incredible Kelly Knox on Twitter, you’ll know that she has delivered some hilarious Star Wars dad jokes over the past few years. Now, Knox and Chronicle Books are teaming up for a collection of jokes and puns inspired by a galaxy far, far away. Featuring colorful illustrations by Johnny Sampson, the book is a perfect Father’s Day gift and a fun addition to your collection of Star Wars books.
April 3 – The Bad Batch – Season 3, Episodes 10-11: “Identity Crisis” and “Point of No Return”
Another two episodes of the final season of The Bad Batch drop April 3 on Disney!
April 3 – Star Wars 45
Lando Calrissian is on trial in the latest comic issue from Charles Soule. The publisher’s summary is as follows: “THE GREATEST TRIAL IN THE GALAXY CONTINUES! LANDO CALRISSIAN is on trial for crimes against the ALLIANCE. The evidence is clear, and his friends have turned against him, from LUKE SKYWALKER to LEIA ORGANA. Lando’s only hope…is DARTH VADER?”
April 9 – The Living Force
John Jackson Miller pens this upcoming adult novel set in the year before The Phantom Menace. The publisher’s summary is as follows: “In the year before The Phantom Menace, Yoda, Mace Windu, and the entire Jedi Council confront a galaxy on the brink of change.
The Jedi have always traveled the stars, defending peace and justice across the galaxy. But, the galaxy is changing, and along with it, the Jedi Order. More and more, the Order finds itself focused on the future of the Republic, secluded on Coruscant, where the twelve members of the Jedi Council weigh crises on a galactic scale.
As yet another Jedi Outpost leftover from the Republic’s golden age is set to be decommissioned on the planet Kwenn, Qui-Gon Jinn challenges the Council about the increasing isolation of the Order. Mace Windu suggests a bold response: all twelve Jedi Masters will embark on a goodwill mission to help the planet, and remind the people of the galaxy that the Jedi remain as stalwart and present as they have been across the ages.
But the arrival of the Jedi leadership is not seen by all as a cause for celebration. Warring pirate factions have infested the sector in the increasing absence of the Jedi. To maintain their dominance, the pirates unite, intent on assassinating the Council. And they are willing to destroy countless innocent lives to secure their power.
Cut off from Coruscant, the Jedi Masters must reckon with an unwelcome truth: that while no one thinks more about the future than the Jedi Council, nobody needs their help more than those living in the present.”
April 9 – Star Wars: Darth Vader Vol. 8 – Dark Droids
Issues 37-41 of Greg Pak’s Darth Vader comic series are collected in this trade paperback. The publisher’s summary is as follows: “The Curse of the Jedi looms — as Vader is swept up in the DARK DROIDS event!
Killer droids have taken over Darth Vader’s flagship Super Star Destroyer, the Executor! Will the lessons of Jedi Masters Qui-Gon and Obi-Wan save the man who was once Anakin Skywalker from the Scourge — or make him a tool for its galactic conquest?”
April 9 – Star Wars: The Mandalorian — Season Two, Part Two
The comic book adaptations of the second half of The Mandalorian Season 2 are collected in this new trade paperback by Rodney Barnes. The publisher’s summary is as follows: “Continuing the official adaptation of the smash-hit Disney+ series!
The Mandalorian’s quest to deliver the Child into the hands of a Jedi who can train him in the Force is beset by fresh dangers — beginning on a world ruled by a cruel magistrate who has made a powerful enemy! On a journey to an ancient site, Din Djarin meets Boba Fett — but will they prove to be enemies or allies? And what exactly is Fett looking for? Then, in order to make a dangerous move against the Empire, the Mandalorian needs the help of an old enemy…but soon they will be forced into a daring rescue!
Plus: The deadly Fennec Shand returns! The Mandalorian first learns the Child’s name! And a surprising face changes the course of destiny for Grogu!”
April 10 – The Bad Batch – Season 3, Episode 12: “Juggernaut”
Another new outing with Clone Force 99 drops April 10.
April 10 – Darth Vader 45
Greg Pak’s acclaimed comic series continues with its 45th issue this month. The publisher’s summary is as follows: “A SECRET PLAN TO TAKE DOWN THE EMPEROR!
DARTH VADER has used the SCHISM IMPERIAL to secure terrible new forces, including the cyborgs of the M.A.R. CORPS and the death machine of GOVERNOR TAUNTAZA…
But what treasure or horror lies within the MARTYRIUM OF FROZEN TEARS?
And what cost will Vader and his allies pay to secure it?”
April 10 – The High Republic 6
Cavan Scott continues the story of The High Republic Phase III in the 6th issue of his exciting comic series. The publisher’s summary is as follows: “BACK TO THE LIGHT! Someone close to the Jedi fell from grace long ago, but there’s always good in people…isn’t there? FORCE USERS clash as a rogue FREEWIELDER terrorizes the sacred streets of an ancient moon. Plus, secrets are revealed as the STARLIGHT JEDI reunite! But how long will their alliance last?”
April 10 – Thrawn: Alliances 4
The comic book adaptation of Timothy Zahn’s Thrawn: Alliances concludes with the fourth issue releasing this month. The publisher’s summary for the issue written by Zahn and Jody Houser and illustrated by Andrea Di Vito and Pat Olliffe is as follows: “E CLIMACTIC CONCLUSION!
DARTH VADER and THRAWN must find the solution to their problem…
…but where does that leave THRAWN and ANAKIN?”
April 16 – Star Wars: Bounty Hunters Vol. 7 — Dark Droids
Ethan Sacks’ Bounty Hunters is one of our favorite Star Wars comic runs in recent years, and fans looking to catch up can grab this collection of issues 35-42. The publisher’s summary is as follows: “The end of an era for the Bounty Hunters!
In the aftermath of their battle with Inferno Squad, Valance and T’onga are joined by the most dangerous bounty hunters in the galaxy: Khel Tanna! Deathstick! Durge! And…Boba Fett?! The ruthless mercenary in the Mandalorian armor has been marked for death by the Black Sun Syndicate, but this new team has something to say about that!
Then, as the saga of the Dark Droids casts a long shadow, Zuckuss, 4-LOM and their fellow bounty hunters face a deadly droid ambush – and a corrupted Valance may be their biggest problem of all! Bitter enemies must become desperate allies, and the last hope for salvation may lie in the unlikeliest of hands! What role has the infamous General Grievous played in the chaos roiling through the galaxy?
April 16 – Star Wars Legends Epic Collection: The New Republic Vol. 1
Originally published in 2015, this collection of Legends comics is reprinted this April. The publisher’s summary is as follows: “When the Empire falls, a New Republic rises! After Star Wars: Episode VI Return of the Jedi, Emperor Palpatine is dead — but can his faithful Hand, Mara Jade, complete her final mission of revenge? Replica droid assassin Guri has also lost her master… but as she struggles for humanity, her android brain makes her a target! When rivals clash over Jabba the Hutt’s criminal empire, the Bloated One makes a surprising appearance! And a mysterious doppelgänger is asking for trouble impersonating everyone’s favorite bounty hunter — it’s Boba Fett vs. Boba Fett!
COLLECTING: STAR WARS: MARA JADE – BY THE EMPEROR’S HAND 0-6, STAR WARS: SHADOWS OF THE EMPIRE – EVOLUTION 1-5, STAR WARS: THE JABBA TAPE, STAR WARS: BOBA FETT-TWIN ENGINES OF DESTRUCTION; MATERIAL FROM STAR WARS TALES 1, 3-5, 10, 14-15, 20; 22.”
April 17 – The Bad Batch – Season 3, Episode 13: “Into the Breach”
Just three episodes left of The Bad Batch as episode 13 drops on April 17.
April 17 – Mace Windu 3
This party is not over… Marc Bernardin and Georges Jeanty’s comic series about the legendary Jedi Master Mace Windu continues this month with issue 3. The publisher’s summary is as follows: “NE OF THE GREATEST JEDI MUST STOP AN EXPLOSIVE SECRET FROM FALLING INTO THE WRONG HANDS!
On the refinery moon RO MIRA, MACE WINDU and smuggler AZITA CRUUZ – carrying the formula to a paradigm-smashing energy source – are on the run from Ro Mira’s security forces and a HUTT-hired BOUNTY HUNTER.
Can MACE dispatch a squadron of fighters led by the ruthless Anzellan YAYA SHRAM with nothing by his LIGHTSABER and THE FORCE?
Introducing MURO and DIYA, DUSK WEAVERS OF THE HAD’LE PATH, a cult obsessed with wiping technology from the face of the galaxy!”
April 17 – The High Republic Adventures – Saber for Hire 1
Cavan Scott writes and Rachael Slott illustrates this new comic miniseries set during the High Republic era. The publisher’s summary for the upcoming debut issue is as follows: “Fan-favorite saber-for-hire Ty Yorrick returns in her most dangerous—and personal—mission yet.
The former Jedi turned monster hunter is having the time of her life behind the Nihil Stormwall. She’s never been busier, battling dangers that the Jedi would’ve usually handled and earning credits galore. If only she hadn’t agreed to take an apprentice. A storm is brewing on the horizon that will see Ty crossing sabers with old enemies…and friends.
New York Times bestseller Cavan Scott joins forces once again with sensational artist Rachael Stott for an emotional and action-packed adventure in a galaxy far, far away.”
April 23 – Star Wars by Gillen & Pak Omnibus
Omnibus collections of Star Wars comics are always must buys, and this upcoming one seems to be no exception. This particular Omnibus collects issues from the Star Wars comic series from authors Kieron Gillen and Greg Pak. The publisher’s summary is as follows: “The epic run that continues bridging the gap between A NEW HOPE and THE EMPIRE STRIKES BACK!
The blockbuster first era of Star Wars’ return to Marvel concludes, as the complete runs of writers Kieron Gillen and Greg Pak are collected in one Death Star-sized Omnibus! Jedha was left in ruins when the Holy City was annihilated — now, as Queen Trios’ forces move in to strip what’s left, the rebels struggle to preserve the planet for its survivors! Leia and her allies seek to strengthen their forces, but can they liberate the water planet of Mon Cala? Or will all hope be lost at the hands of Darth Vader? With the Empire resurgent, and Vader on a ruthless hunt for Luke Skywalker, our heroes are forced on the run — but is romance in the air?
And can the beleaguered rebels find safe haven in the icy wastelands of Hoth?
COLLECTING: Star Wars (2015) #38-75, Star Wars Annual (2016) #4, Star Wars: Empire Ascendant (2019) #1, Star Wars: The Last Jedi – The Storms of Crait (2017) #1”
April 23 – Star Wars: Doctor Aphra Vol. 7 — Dark Droids
We’re still sad that Alyssa Wong’s Doctor Aphra series has come to an end, but we can re-experience some of it with this new paperback collection of issues 32-40. The publisher’s summary is as follows: “LUKE SKYWALKER: FRIEND OR FOE?
Aphra has convinced Luke she can help him find long-lost secrets of the Jedi, setting them on the path to uncover a great and terrible power sealed away long ago. This horrifying, ancient creature resonates with the Force, and it’s about to be released! But what are Aphra’s real plans for Luke?
Then, trapped in a warehouse full of deadly battle droids, our not-so-good Doctor fights for her life! But she’s about to come face-to-face with the one enemy she never expected to see again! As the Tagge Fleet burns and the galaxy reels, Doctor Aphra finds herself all alone. But in an ancient ruin on a desolate planet, she may finally uncover the answers that she’s been hunting for her entire life!”
April 23 – Return of the Jedi: A Visual Archive
Forty years after its release and Return of the Jedi continues to be a fascinating film and installment in the broader Star Wars universe. In this new release, Insight Editions teams up with writers S.T. Bende, Kelly Knox, and Clayton Sandell to take a comprehensive look back at the film. The publisher’s summary for Return of the Jedi: A Visual Archive is as follows: “
Return of the Jedi didn’t just conclude the original Star Wars trilogy—its themes, structure, and emotional core paved the way for some of the most compelling elements of modern Star Wars storytelling. Filled with photography and concept art, this book celebrates all things Return of the Jedi, while also examining its ties to modern Star Wars stories such as The Mandalorian, The Book of Boba Fett, The Clone Wars, and beyond. Covering essential aspects of Return of the Jedi, this book further examines the film’s legacy by showcasing the movie’s merchandise, novels, comics, and spinoffs.
REDISCOVER THE THRILLS OF RETURN OF THE JEDI: This deluxe coffee table book presents the story of Return of the Jedi in a fun and exciting format, with plenty of facts about the production of the film. From the enduring eccentricities of Jabba the Hutt’s palace, to the climactic showdown between Luke Skywalker and Darth Vader, this book explores fan-favorite moments from the beloved movie.
A BOUNTY OF SPECIAL ITEMS AND INTERACTIVE FEATURES: Gatefolds, booklets, and other interactive features add a new level of insight to this celebration of the iconic film.
CELEBRATE THE LEGACY OF AN EPIC CONCLUSION: Going beyond the production of Return of the Jedi, this book explores forty years of merchandise, books, comics, and spinoffs, including Caravan of Courage: An Ewok Adventure, Ewoks: The Battle for Endor, and the animated Ewoks television show.
AN IDEAL GIFT FOR ALL FANS: Return of the Jedi has timeless appeal among movie-goers and aficionados, making this book the perfect gift for the Star Wars fan in your life.
COMPLETE YOUR COLLECTION: This book joins Insight Editions’ library of exciting Star Wars titles, including Star Wars: The High Republic: Chronicles of the Jedi, Star Wars: The Lightsaber Collection, and Star Wars: The Secrets of the Wookiees.”
April 24 – The Bad Batch – Season 3, Episode 14: “Flash Strike”
The penultimate episode of The Bad Batch releases on April 24 on Disney+.
April 24 – Darth Maul – Black, White & Red 1
Darth Maul stars in this brand new comic series. The first issue is written by Benjamin Percy and illustrated by Stefano Raffaele and Raul Angulo. The publisher’s summary is as follows: “DARTH MAUL STARS IN HIS VERY OWN HORROR BLOCKBUSTER! A prison ship – transporting a cult known as the FINAL OCCULTATION – goes offline, and DARTH MAUL is sent by PALPATINE to investigate. What he finds on board is the stuff of nightmares!!! It’s up to him to stop this profoundly dark and unstable force that wishes to bring chaos to the galaxy.”
April 24 – Jango Fett 2
Jango Fett and Aurra Sing face off in the second issue of Ethan Sacks and Luke Ross’ Marvel Comic series. The publisher’s summary is as follows: “THE GREATEST BOUNTY HUNTER IN THE GALAXY IN THE CROSSHAIRS OF A DANGEROUS RIVAL!
JANGO FETT is after a stolen artifact at the center of a planetwide war!
But the hunter is being hunted by the notorious AURRA SING!
What is the secret conspiracy that threatens them all?”
April 24 – The High Republic Adventures 5
Daniel José Older writes and Elisa Romboli and Michael Atiyeh illustrate the fifth issue of this Dark Horse Comics series. The publisher’s summary is as follows: “On the edge of Republic space, Zeen, Lula, and a small Republic fleet launched a surprise attack on a Nihil prison ship. It’s a daring rescue attempt, but their hope is to find and free missing allies… Now that they’ve fought their way in, will they be able to fight their way out?”
April 30 – Andor and Obi-Wan Kenobi on 4K UHD / Blu-Ray / DVD
Relive these two amazing Star Wars series with these premium SteelBooks.
April 30 – Star Wars: The High Republic – Shadows of Starlight trade paperback
Last, but not least, in the month of April is a trade paperback collection of Charles Soule’s The High Republic – Shadows of Starlight series. The publisher’s summary is as follows: “The thrilling look into the High Republic era of Star Wars continues!
After the destruction of STARLIGHT BEACON, the JEDI have faced one devastating blow after another! Who survived the catastrophes brought on by the DRENGIR, the NIHIL and the NAMELESS and who died? And most importantly who will step up to the forces causing chaos in the galaxy? YODA is joined by unexpected allies to form a council prepared to wage the ultimate war for justice and peace!
Following the best-selling story set in the golden age of the Jedi!”
For reference, a condensed list of upcoming Star Wars projects in April 2024 without descriptions is included below:
April 2 – I Am Your Mother/Aau’s Song
April 2 – Star Wars Insider: The High Republic: Tales of Enlightenment
April 2 – Star Wars: Dad Jokes: The Best Worst Jokes and Puns from a Galaxy Far, Far Away
April 3 – The Bad Batch – Season 3, Episodes 10-11: “Identity Crisis” and “Point of No Return”
April 3 – Star Wars 45
April 9 – The Living Force
April 9 – Star Wars: Darth Vader Vol. 8 – Dark Droids
April 9 – Star Wars: The Mandalorian — Season Two, Part Two
April 10 – The Bad Batch – Season 3, Episode 12: “Juggernaut”
April 10 – Darth Vader 45
April 10 – The High Republic 6
April 10 – Thrawn: Alliances 4
April 16 – Star Wars: Bounty Hunters Vol. 7 — Dark Droids
April 16 – Star Wars Legends Epic Collection: The New Republic Vol. 1
April 17 – The Bad Batch – Season 3, Episode 13: “Into the Breach”
April 17 – Mace Windu 3
April 17 – The High Republic Adventures – Saber for Hire 1
April 23 – Star Wars by Gillen & Pak Omnibus
April 23 – Star Wars: Doctor Aphra Vol. 7 — Dark Droids
April 23 – Return of the Jedi: A Visual Archive
April 24 – The Bad Batch – Season 3, Episode 14: “Flash Strike”
April 24 – Darth Maul – Black, White & Red 1
April 24 – Jango Fett 2
April 24 – The High Republic Adventures 5
April 30 – Star Wars: The High Republic – Shadows of Starlight trade paperback
See below for a full breakdown of all the new Star Wars projects that released last month!