If you've ever had the opportunity to go to Galaxy's Edge in Walt Disney World's Hollywood Studios or Disneyland, then you know what a wonderful place Batuu is. For the uninitiated, Batuu is the name given to the fourteen-acre Star Wars area of the Disney theme parks and is also a planet in the Star Wars mythology. In other words, the conceit is that once you're in Batuu at Galaxy's Edge, you are on a planet in the Star Wars universe, in Black Spire Outpost. It is an incredibly immersive experience and one of the most enchanting places I have ever been to.
That being said, it can be daunting to get around Black Spire Outpost if you are unfamiliar with the terrain. There are shops, dining, and entertainment experiences you will not want to miss. The challenge is that none of it is immediately labeled; since it is all in-world (remember, you are supposedly on a planet in the Star Wars galaxy), so if you're hungry, thirsty, want to buy a lightsaber, or some other unique item, you may be at a loss as to where to go or what to do. All of the Cast Members in Galaxy's Edge are extremely knowledgeable and helpful, but the initial experience is not necessarily intuitive.
Thankfully, becker&meyer! books have published Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge: The Traveler's Guide to Batuu by Cole Horton (under the in-world pen name of Eloc Throno), a travel guide book written in the spirit of Galaxy's Edge. Horton dutifully writes the book as if you are actually in the Star Wars universe, informing you of the local customs, cuisine, and denizens of Black Spire Outpost. He strategically places you in every section of Black Spire Outpost and helps you know where to find everything from blue milk to First Order propaganda (tees and collectibles). Horton discusses some of the options at every eatery, recommends some great alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks at Oga's Cantina, and makes some great suggestions about what you can buy in Dok Ondar's Den of Antiquities.
Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge: The Traveler's Guide to Batuu also takes you in-depth through the fictional history of this remote outpost in the Star Wars universe. There is information on the inhabitants, wildlife, and culture of Black Spire Outpost, complete with the in-world history of Batuu that also adds to the greater mythology of Star Wars. I have been fortunate to have been to Galaxy's Edge on both coasts multiple times and feel knowledgeable about what I can expect there. However, I will be taking Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge: The Traveler's Guide to Batuu with me the next time I go, so that I can enjoy the book as the authentic travel companion it is. Whether you are a veteran of Galaxy's Edge or a first-time visitor, Horton's new book is a welcome guide that will enhance your experience and will also bolster your knowledge of the Star Wars universe.
3 1/2 out of 5
Purchase your copy of Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge: The Traveler's Guide to Batuu here
Note: A big thank you to Quarto for sending an advanced copy to review.
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