Review: Churo the Hutt steals the show in Beware the Nameless

Review: Churo the Hutt steals the show in Beware the Nameless

As a seasoned Star Wars enthusiast who has traversed the galaxy’s expanses since the original trilogy graced our screens, I can confidently say that “Star Wars: The High Republic: Beware the Nameless” by Zoraida Córdova is a middle-grade novel that has left an indelible mark on my intergalactic journey. This tale doesn’t shy away from its title’s ominous undertones, as the chilling Nameless are as terrifying here as they are in the adult and young adult novels of The High Republic.


Star Wars: The High Republic – Be Wary of the Unnamed (by Zoraida Córdova) is a middle-grade book that doesn’t shy away from the tough stuff. True to its name, the chilling ‘Unnamed’ are prominently featured in the narrative and are as unsettling as they are portrayed in both adult and young adult versions of Star Wars: The High Republic novels.

In this continuation of the previous middle-grade novel titled “Escape from Valo“, we delve back into the lives of characters such as Ram Jomaram, Kildo, Tep Tep, and even introduce a few new ones: Jamil Sollis, a young Jedi, Zenny Greylark, the daughter of a senator, and the intriguing Churo the Hutt. Although Ram remains significant, he steps more into the background this time around, offering room for Kildo, Tep Tep, and the newcomers to grow and shine in their roles.

I never thought I needed a nerdy, insecure Hutt who feels more at home secluded in a greenhouse than he does in the criminal underworld, but now I can’t imagine Star Wars without him. Churo is a truly delightful character, and while his archetype may be familiar, I’ve never seen this archetype matched up with a Hutt before. Churo’s point-of-view chapters were consistently my favorites, and I found his arc to be the most satisfying.

In simpler terms, I wasn’t as drawn to the other fresh characters in The High Republic series. However, I found Jamis’ character development the second most intriguing and appreciated learning about Axel Greylark’s descendants. Despite there being many significant characters in The High Republic, I’m eager to see more of Beware the Nameless’ new additions again, particularly Churo, whose tale seems like it has just started unfolding.

Regarding the Nameless beings in “The High Republic,” I find this portrayal particularly unsettling. The reason for this is that we witness their actions from various viewpoints, including those of characters who can sense the Force and those who cannot. For those without the Force, the true nature of these creatures becomes apparent. In this story, several characters, both heroes and villains, meet a gruesome end at the hands of the Nameless. Given that it’s a novel for young readers, even major characters are not spared from their wrath.

As a devoted fan, I can’t help but feel that the unfolding events surrounding the Nameless are not just significant twists, but crucial building blocks towards the climactic finale of The High Republic. It’s truly invigorating to see young characters taking center stage in this epic saga, tasked with missions that carry immense weight in the grand struggle against the Nihil. This narrative shift is both captivating and a breath of fresh air!

Among The High Republic’s middle-grade novels to date, “Escape from Valo” remains my top pick; however, I must admit that “Beware the Nameless” ranks a close second for me. This captivating storyline offers a swift and immersive reading experience, featuring one of Star Wars’ most intriguing new characters, while skillfully portraying the ominous nature of the Nameless. Moreover, its finale will undoubtedly have a lasting impact on the future narratives within The High Republic series.

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2024-09-23 18:21

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