Scott's Rating:   2.5 out of 4

This is a "Step Into Reading" book from Scholastic. It is intended for Grades 1 - 3 and is written for beginning readers.

Anakin is about to start the pod race, but discovers that he needs a vital part to his pod. He sends DUM-4 to borrow a part from Gasgano. Gasgano agrees to give the pit droid the part if he gets a "thrust cone" from Sebulba. When DUM-4 goes to Sebulba, the Dug agrees to give the cone if the droid delivers a message to Jabba. Through many difficulties, the droid makes all his deliveries, gets the part to Anakin, and helps him win the race.

Scott:

    As usual, I like the Star Wars books aimed at kids. I think it helps them get excited and motivated about reading. The art in the book is great. Some nice renditions of the pod racers and Jabba. As for the story, it's good to see that the Fontes' tried to do something set within the framework of the film, yet still a new story. It is infinitely better than simply doing a rehash of the film. Kids should also really love the little pit droids.

Scott:

    First up, didn't the DUM-4 droid belong to Ody Mandrell? Wasn't he the droid that was sucked into the pod engine?

My other question is, why would Gasgano help Anakin? Why would Sebulba help Gasgano? I thought pod racing was cutthroat. I didn't think you'd ever see them helping one another out as they do here.

Sebulba also sends a note to Jabba, and Jabba sends back a reply. Yet we never learn what the messages said. It's completely glossed over. Were they conspiring? Sending love letters? What?

Scott:

    Jabba wins the ugly prize hands down.