Knowing the history behind Splinter of the Mind’s Eye makes the novel more enriching. Alan Dean Foster ghostwrote the novelization of A New Hope with George Lucas and was contracted to write a sequel that could be made into a low-budget script in case Episode IV failed at the box office. A low-budget sequel to Star Wars meant no flashy fight scenes, re-use of props, no appearances by unsigned actors (Harrison Ford), and a setting that would be cheap to construct and film. What Splinter of the Mind’s Eye became was the foundation for the rest of the Extended Universe.
Splinter of the Mind’s Eye follows Luke Skywalker and Princess Leia on a mission to Circarpous to enlist their Rebel underground in the fight against the Empire. Unfortunately, their planes crash on Mimban, a swampy planet reminiscent of Dagobah. While looking for a station, they find a secret mining camp run by the Empire. Eager to continue the mission to Circarpous, they team up with Halla, a crazy woman, who forces them to help her find the Kaiburr crystal, which magnifies the holder’s Force abilities. Although Halla desires it for herself, Luke and Leia realize the danger it poses if acquired by Darth Vader.
Reading Splinter of the Mind’s Eye forces comparison with Empire Strikes Back. Thank the Force we can, because Splinter of the Mind’s Eye is awful. Still, it does reveal much about the early days of Star Wars, including the inconsistencies that Lucas won’t admit. Like, how could anyone allow Luke and Leia to have so much kissy time if he knew they were twins? Why are Luke and Leia able to successfully fight Darth Vader without Jedi training? Splinter of the Mind’s Eye can really only be appreciated by those who enjoy history and Star Wars.
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