This is a review of IncrediBuilds: Star Wars: R2-D2 Deluxe Book and Model Set, written by Michael Kogge
IncrediBuilds: Star Wars: R2-D2 Deluxe Book and Model Set is unlike anything I’ve reviewed for Coffee With Kenobi before, and I’m pleased it came my way. As the title suggests, this is a book and model set perfect for Star Wars fans, and in particular fans of R2-D2 — arguably the real hero of the entire saga.
The book is hardcover and colorfully illustrated throughout. Considering its compact size (32 pages), Michael Kogge has written a book that is surprisingly comprehensive. Artoo’s origins, technical specifications, role in both the Republic and the Rebellion, his many antics and adventures – as well as misadventures – are covered. It’s entirely possible you could come away from the book with a deeper appreciation for the heroic little astromech.
A look behind the scenes at the creation of, and inspiration for, R2-D2 includes concept art and fun bits of trivia. There is also an interview with Don Bies, the Droid Unit Supervisor on the Star Wars prequels. Albeit brief, it contained some interesting information, including a few items that were new to me. That’s always a welcome surprise!
The meat of the book is the R2-D2 plywood model you can build. I’m not handy with crafty pursuits — like at all — but I was up for the challenge. The book is designed for younger fans (ages 8+), but I was reasonably sure my 47-year-old digits were up to the task.
Here’s a gallery of my progress:
As I mentioned previously, the book is geared toward padawans, but it is easily accessible to people of all ages. The process for assembling R2-D2 is best left to small hands, however. I happen to have very small hands, so it worked out well for me. It is delicate work, though, and larger hands could have some difficulty if not accustomed to small model work.
I didn’t use any tools or glue, although you can use glue as you assemble the model. I found, when properly assembled, it holds together quite well. The directions are easy to follow, but it is important to pay close attention as you go along. I got ahead of myself and had to go back a step or two at one point. Patience is not my virtue.
The model took about an hour, not counting distractions from my Pug. You can paint and customize the finished product, and there are suggestions in the final few pages of the book. I’m going leave mine au naturel as I like the look of the detailing on the plywood. I’m afraid I’d mess that up if I started fiddling with paint. As I said — not crafty.
All told, this was an enjoyable experience. Reading about R2-D2 is always engaging, and assembling his little model gave me something unique to my Star Wars collection.
My rating: 5/5 for both the book and the model
You can purchase your copy of IncrediBuilds: Star Wars: R2-D2 Deluxe Book and Model Set here.
Thank you to IncrediBuilds and Insight Editions for providing a copy of this book for review purposes.
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