A Darth Vader kids book?

This IS the book you’re looking for.  Funny, witty, and a little bit sweet, Adam Rex’ book, Are You Scared, Darth Vader? is such a wonderful read.  The artwork is top notch and while it is a picture book it has the authenticity of Star Wars.  Kids will love it for the funny story.  Adults will love seeing Darth Vader in a different light.  And Star Wars fans will just love it.  Period.

Title: Are You Scared, Darth Vader?
Author: Adam Rex
Cost: $17.99 (pre-order now for a July 3rd release)
Publisher: Disney/Lucasfilm Press
Ages: 3 and up (especially if they are Star Wars fans)
Genre: Picture book

Adam Rex authors a very interactive book between the reader and Darth Vader.  The book breaks the fourth wall and the narrator interacts directly with the Dark Lord of the Sith.  At one point, Vader also interacts with the reader which is done in a charming and clever way.  The story is about the narrator’s efforts to get Darth Vader to admit that there are things that scare him.  But Vader is seemingly impervious to fear.  Werewolves, vampires, and other monsters that might scare the average person pose no threat to the Dark Lord of the Sith. But there is something that does frighten Darth…and I’ll let you find that out for yourself.

The humor in the book is what really sold me.  The artwork as you can see is great, the medium Adam uses  is spot on for the tone he is trying to set, I even love the lettering.  I’m not sure if the lettering is Adam’s artwork, but it matches the tone perfectly.  As well done as all of those things are, it’s still the clever dialogue and the way Adam crafts the story that impressed me the most.  He is able to craft a charming story that is perfect for the picture book format.  No other medium would capture the heart of the story in quite the same way.  The act of literally turning the page is part of the nuance of the book and Adam does it well.  If there is such a thing as timing in a book, this one has it.

A perfect gift for any child who loves Star Wars or even as a gift for adult Star Wars fan in your life that seemingly has everything.  Unfortunately, you’ll have to wait until July to receive your copy as it is slated to release on July 3rd.  Trust me, it’s worth the wait.

• Disney Publishing sent me an unpublished copy for review. Thanks Disney!  I loved it!  The final copy may have changes (caveat) but it’s been my experience changes are rare and if so minor.