Lost Stars: Part 2

[colls]

Welcome to our second of four check-in and discussion posts for our Book of the Month.

This month’s book is Lost Stars by Claudia Gray
Chapters 8-15

1. What are your thoughts about Thalen and his assignment after graduation?

2. Do you think Ciena will change her mind about the Empire?

3. Are there any moments that struck you as noteworthy or interesting?

Comments

[brokenmnemonic]

1. From what we see of Thalen's thoughts after graduation, and the way he has to face the enslaved aliens, I'm wondering what desertion rates are like across the Empire. I wonder if Thalen (and Ciena) are unusual because they signed up in part for idealistic reasons?

2. From what I've read of Ciena's thoughts, I'm thinking it's unlikely she'll leave, although I'm not sure if her 5-year term of service extends beyond ROTJ. I think because she saw the Death Star explosion but also isn't seeing how the Empire affects people the way Thalen does, she's going to continue believing in the idea that the Empire is a stabilising force of law and order, and that the rebels are all terrorists.

3. I thought Jase's reaction to the destruction of Alderaan was interesting, and I'm curious whether he'll end up turning against the Empire, or if he'll end up becoming a zealot in the Empire's service. I also liked Leia's bit-part appearances, and the cameos from Dax and Wedge. Poor Dax - the brief interaction with Thalen shows just how young and idealistic he was. I think the book's doing a good job of echoing the events we're familiar with but giving us new perspectives on them. Also, I'd like a comic book miniseries about the adventures and good works of Lohgarra and the Mighty Oak Apocalypse!

[colls]

(I've been very behind! Sorry about that)

I known it was the entire premise of the book - that childhood friends would find themselves on opposite sides - but it still felt painful. I wanted to shake Ciena for being so 'loyal', but that's my outsider POV and I can't say she really has the sort of perspective Thane has gotten. She's even made excuses for her family's change in demeanor and the demerits she got for rescuing civilians.

I LOVED the Moa and also want more of that crew. <333