Star Wars: Attack of the Clones -
The Visual Dictionary
by David West Reynolds

Published by DK Publishing

Scott's Rating:   4 out of 4

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As with the previous Visual Dictionary editions, this one is a reference book for Star Wars fans. It contains photos of characters, props, costumes, creatures, ships, and more. It also contains photos of scenes from the movies as well as photos of props not appearing in the film (like the Sith holocron). Along with these photos are commentaries on the different featured items, trivia, and descriptions of what we're seeing. This Attack of the Clones edition also features a tutorial on lightsaber fighting technique. There are special sections devoted to Jango Fett, the Jedi, Padme, Clone Troopers, Coruscant, Dexter's Diner, the Outlander Club, Arena Beasts, Kamino, and much more.

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Scott:

    The Episode II Visual Dictionary is one of the best references for Star Wars fans, hands down. If you're into costume building, then there are detailed photos of all the costumes for you. If you're into the Expanded Universe beyond the film, then this book gives you detailed histories on the characters, planets, and more which you won't get in the theater. If you're into trivia, this has about the most obscure trivia you'll find anywhere. And if you simply want a nice picture book, this is very thorough with a nice mixture of production photos and stills from the film. I can't recommend this book any more highly.

Here are a few highlights that I pulled from the book just to give you a sample of how fun it is:

- The origin of Jango Fett is revealed in this book. It talks about how his family were farmers who were murdered. He was then adopted by the Mandalorian army and trained. Wiped out by the Jedi, Jango Fett is the last of the Mandalorians.

- This book reveals the origins of Count Dooku. From the planet of Serenno, he was trained by Master Yoda. In turn, Dooku was the Master of Qui-Gon Jinn. His unique lightsaber is also detailed.

- The arena beasts are explained. The home planets of the Acklay, Nexu, and Reek are described and they tell how their unique features developed.

- The new Jedi such as Kit Fisto, Bultar Swan, Shaak Ti, and others are introduced. The Bear Clan of younglings are also shown.

This is just an ever-so-brief sample of what you can find in this book. Do yourself a favor and pick it up.

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Scott:

    I can't complain about much of anything in this book. If I were to point out anything, it would be the annoying little notations on some of the pictures. For example, a note points to a bug-eyed Count Dooku and says, "Count's gaze immobilizes weak-minded individuals." Er...OK. Another points to Padme's hair and says, "Practical hairstyle for travel and action." Is it really necessary to point this out? Another points to Watto's head and says, "Mind focused on profit." While I'm sure that's a joke, it's still kind of annoying.

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Scott:

    Palpatine's outfit on the back cover has some awfully poofy sleeves on it!

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