Claudia Gray Interview - Talking About Into the Dark, the Force, the High Republic, and More!

Claudia Gray joins me to talk about her new book, Into the Dark, the rest of the High Republic, her views on the Force, and so much more!
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www.claudiagray...
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#starwars

[@darthwint3823]

Claudia Gray is the Queen of Star Wars novelists & my favourite Star Wars canon writer, Lost Stars is handsdown my favourite canon novel & Master & Apprentice, Leia: Princess of Alderaan, Bloodline are all in my top 15. Currently reading Into the Dark.

[@elperrodelautumo7511]

Truly Star Wars Explained you are the only well known channel that enjoy the current content of Star Wars rather than self hate of the direction Star Wars is currently heading.

[@joemullarkey5719]

Hellogreedo is also fairly level headed.

[@davidkelsey7455]

The Force is with Jesse, is another positive look at the galaxy.

[@chestersdad07]

I found 'Into the Dark' easy to read....less characters, so more time for character development (especially with Reath Silas) and a narrative structure that brings back a classic star wars vibe....Claudia Gray nails it.

[@Eddrian32]

Yaddle as the wolverine of the Jedi council, I love it

[@Saikotic]

I walked to my driveway and got a collection of Geode minifigs.

[@grandpaladin1701]

Not treating the Force as a videogame-styled superpower?? Yeah, I can't POSSIBLY understand why there might be haters (severe eye-roll). Good for Claudia! Love it.

[@aathmpsn]

Hearing her talk about the spirit of Star Wars is so wholesome compared to the typical surface level discourse online. I feel a lot of these people miss the point, and focus on so many details that don't matter.. like I said, wholesome. Feels good to listen to someone have a level headed/experienced/well researched view on this made up galaxy.

[@aathmpsn]

@@bobs3302 It's remarkable because there's hoards of fans who fetishize the Force Unleashed, Anakin's 'power level', Baseball card statistics that lose sight of exactly those moments you bring up. Those moments are the true spirit of Star Wars, and for me personally I LOVE that the High Republic is sticking true to that form, and not giving in to make the force a Superpower and make Star Wars a bunch of superhero movies. Because obviously it's deeper than that. George kept it there for his 6 movies, and I for one am thankful that isn't lost to a different time, different marketing, different Ownership..

[@Bobdobbinks]

@@bobs3302 its definitely worth checking out mate. I bought light of the Jedi on a whim, and kind of subconsciously expecting to get a couple of chapters in before putting it down and forgetting about it until a later date (admittedly what I do with most books). I'm on chapter 15 now, and I'm still hooked. it is a bit heavy because its introducing everything for this new era, but having the audiobook where the narrator uses regional accents like in clone wars (nautolans are jamaican, twi'leks are french, etc.) helps ease that burden.

[@pacman5698]

@@aathmpsn As Lucas said in 2015, it's not about the spaceships. It's about the family drama.

[@artfact2]

Just wanted to drop a like on this and say thank you. Claudia is an incredible writer and I am very much looking forward to what she brings to the high republic! Will come back to this once I have read Into the Dark!

[@artfact2]

Just finished Into the Dark: what a ride. I loved the characters so much. Really hoping you get to interview her again for The Fallen Star!

[@LordDagovere]

I think Geode is pretty Solid.

[@keithrosenthal4757]

My Favorite Star Wars Writer!!! Now I also know Claudia has an amazing personality

[@RayOfTruth]

Claudia Gray probably my favorite Star Wars creator. Lost Stars is easily one of the best Star Wars stories when looking at either canon or legends.

[@jackrutledgegoembel5896]

@@JW-fw3hc why? there's nothing wrong with the series imo, they're finally doing something new for once

[@whatthetrend8323]

@J W your problem with the high republic better not be that it’s diverse because that can literally only be a good thing and I have no clue as to how you wouldn’t like that

[@stevensmith7791]

I love Claudia Gray! I had the insane privilege of running into her and all of the other High Republic authors while they work they were in Galaxy’s Edge last February. I will never forget that Claudia commented on the Star Wars shirt I was wearing and told me she really liked it. It was a life-changing moment for me.

[@hannahgreen9998]

I met her at Pensacon a few years back. She’s an absolute peach and is happy to listen to us gush haha

[@Trashcom1917]

Obviously this is preaching to the choir but definitely one of the best star wars writers in the franchise's history

[@masonmoore7636]

The franchise is lucky to have her, every book she’s written is a banger

[@knobbylaad]

not read her book yet but will get to it . up there with zhan and luceno ? i know she is mainly a younger readers novel writer, which i dont mind . i know she got negativity over geode . i never judge before reading, ill give it a go !

[@adambomber3384]

@@knobbylaad her work includes Lost Stars, Bloodline, Leia: PoA, Master & Apprentice, and ITD. her SW books have received almost exclusively high praise as some of the best both post-reboot and in general. so yeah, I'd personally put her up there (not that I'm a great reference for that)

[@claudeyaz]

@@knobbylaad lol the writing skill is good. But the books? Not good at all

[@artfact2]

Just finished Into the Dark: what a ride. I loved the characters so much. Really hoping you get to interview her again for The Fallen Star!

[@corvetteguy2223]

Jeez, what's with the dislikes. Great interview, great author.

[@junoeclipse7715]

I adore Claudia's books, Top 3 star wars authors, easy!

[@settheworldonfire94]

It took me roughly 3 months to finish ITD, not for lack of wanting, but because I saved it to read during my planning periods at school. It was such a great breather and a very good novel overall. I found it hard to tear myself away most days. I also stretched it out because I wanted to get closer to the next wave of books. They’re still about a month away, but now I can dig into the comics while I wait.

[@andreoliveira191]

Still waiting for that Lost Stars sequel

[@kypdurron6168]

the best book out of the new canon. just sitting the wuinlan and assajj book sits beneath. rest is imo just boring. sadly also the thrawn books

[@sanderhoefsloot6852]

I really loved into the dark! I’m very excited for the future HR books and comics.

[@ormapa1206]

I love her. She is an amazing author and all her books are incredible and my favorites.

[@AbsolXGuardian]

The depth of the languages and history in LOTR is because Tolkien was a medivalist and a linguist by trade. Authors bringing in their other training can lead to some of the more authentic feeling fictional worlds. And with the Star Wars EU, you can really capture so many different perspectives. Take Zahn. He's a physicist by trade, and so Thrawn's plans often involve a lot more physics trickery than typical Star Wars warfare. It also leads to a greater and sharper understanding of what's sci-fi and what's fantasy. Thrawn Alliances made the first explict connection between the Force and hyperspace. Which makes sense. Hyperspace is *not* FTL travel, its a different more condensed dimension. It's another fantasy aspect. So what are you to do? Combine it with the space wizards

[@ricksherman34]

Leia was a really nice surprise. Really enjoyed that book Claudia. I think you signed it for me a couple of years ago at Phx Comic Con 😃

[@aggressivelyrelaxing155]

No way! So excited to hear this interview!

[@timtetumtetodd]

"Into the Dark" and "Bloodline" are my two favorite Star Wars books. 🤗

[@predaterm101]

Wow what a surprise. I just finished Lost Stars for the first time yesterday and Bloodline before that.

[@LeeJ2512]

Great interview! I just finished Into the Dark yesterday and I read Master and Apprentice not long ago. Claudia really gets Star Wars.

[@JohanHerrenberg]

Just read Bloodline. The lady can write!

[@starwarsinfinitywargravity2779]

Claudia Gray wrote my favorite Star Wars novel Lost Stars

[@TinaLynn]

I just got Into the Dark the other day... now if I can just get off youtube long enough to sit down and enjoy it :)

[@mitchbloemberg7321]

I’ve been looking forward to this!

[@auntvesuvi3872]

Thanks, Alex! Thanks, Claudia! 🎤

[@DragonFangX]

So far, I've red Light of the Jedi and Into the Dark and its been a two for two of stories I've picked up. Into the Dark feels more like a Rebels next to Light of the Jedi feeling more like a movie plot - ITD a smaller, more focused crew and story that allows for more personal connection. I really enjoyed myself and looking forward to the next round of High Republic novels later this year.

[@matepolcz]

191 dislikes??? Because of Geode maybe. She is the best author who wrote books in the universe of Star Wars in my opinion.

[@julia6298]

For me, Timothy Zahn is the best, but Claudia Gray is really a gift for SWU.

[@dani10ren42]

Hahahahaha! No one compares to James Luceno and Timothy Zahn

[@matepolcz]

@@dani10ren42 that's your opinion man! They wrote more books in legends than in canon and I haven't read many books from legends and probably I won't. (Because the Hungarian publisher company will not be able to publish and sell legends books from dec. 2021.)

[@jmb1511]

James Luceno and Drew Karpyshyn exist bro

[@knobbylaad]

obviously you haven't read much star wars !

[@danieljenkins1758]

To the good and sensible people reading this - you're awesome, you're loved, you can do this, have a great day :)

[@inlizwetrusst7904]

Who?

[@Fabis28]

Hey Alex, thank you for this video, it is realy nice to learn lil bit more about Claudia, who is amazing author. I am currently reading her Master & Apprentice and cant wait while I dig into High Republic. I love your channel btw, thanks for your awesome content and looking forward for more. Be well!

[@moleybear]

Claudia interviews are always awesome to listen to. I would add Terry Brooks to the list of great world builders.

[@MovingHawaii]

Claudia is one of the best story tellers for the SW universe

[@kylearking8918]

My most loved side character would have to be Karoly D’ulin from the Mos Eisley Cantina in A New Hope.

[@dtinagliastudios]

Bloodline is the best Star Wars book!!!

[@MSeanMcManus]

Ohhh, I like this talk about the trees having the force, because it made me realize that when Rey strikes down the tree that traps BB-8, it reflects on her ability to draw to the Dark Side- or at lest her innate connection with it.

[@pankojoy9372]

You've got to be kidding

[@noirerequiemii101]

Glad to see more interviews with great star wars fans

[@simonlakin1378]

I'm reserving judgment on the character of Geode until I have read the novel. I feel that it is unfair to hate on a character that you haven't even seen or read.

[@darthwint3823]

I'm currently reading into the dark & im struggling with character geode to be honest so far, novel is good tho

[@Gmaninator10]

He's just a fun character. Even if you dont like him, he's such a harmless addition to the novel. I think people have been overreacting.

[@simonlakin1378]

@@antonalbo Until I've read it I don't know if it has limbs or whether it moves around by hovering or teleporting.

[@simonlakin1378]

@@antonalbo If it is just a rock then it is lame. I'm a writer as well. I have rock-like characters in my stories but they are human shaped. They walk and talk and are extremely volatile. They are not actual rocks.

[@mxjosh2000]

@@antonalbo Nope, Geode is not a rock, he is a Vintian

[@elperrodelautumo7511]

Shout out to Claudia Grey!

[@LordDagovere]

Claudia seems like such a chill person.

[@tinyrocks7549]

I’m liking this and will savor the vid over the weekend!

[@ianmoore4832]

Thanks!

[@Jilhel]

The face Alex did when she linked Tolkien and Lucas, I did the same. Great interview as always !

[@stuartmccaighy2958]

Where did you get your tshirt Alex?

[@joncarroll2040]

I love Geode so much that my next Star Wars RPG campaign is going to have a Vintian Jedi as an NPC (Master Clast).

[@nilsf5302]

Let's gooooo this is amazing!

[@Eddrian32]

*Claudia talking about the way she views the force* Influence Gained: Kreia

[@StarWarsMeg]

Sorry Claudia, I think I win at being the biggest Yaddle fan 😊

[@shchris1]

Great interview 👍🏽

[@connormaskell4192]

Breaking news: Biggs's helmet is now in Squadrons

[@VictorNoriegaDetective]

Epic interview hope we get more

[@OranjMoose]

I always thought of Leox being young Woody Harrelson doing a Matthew McConahay impression

[@mastereditor3483]

I just straight up though Woody Harrelson with long hair.

[@ScottKorin]

I don't understand the incels mad about Geode

[@masonmoore7636]

it really comes down to one thing: they haven’t read ITD lmao

[@TTRPGSarvis]

Honestly, Geode was a pretty great running gag in the story that made me laugh out loud more than once.

[@tuhtols]

@@thealexgundam5006 In a universe that contains giant worms that live in asteroids, 2 ft tall frog wizards, and literal space whales that can jump into hyperspace at will, a sentient rock is too much for you?

[@dillonstanley796]

@@tuhtols I wouldn't bother with Landon. The guy claimed 99% percent of people can't take it seriously.

[@joemullarkey5719]

@@thealexgundam5006 you do realize that Dave and Favreau’s work is also Kennedy’s work right? She’s the president of Lucasfilm so she has a hand in everything.

[@mastereditor3483]

Great book

[@rishikrangaraju7359]

Finally, lets goooo!!!

[@TylerCharlesFisher]

"The best I am at what I do, bub."

[@all1nerd377]

Just waiting for that LOST STARS sequel.

[@gpdaelemans]

Good interview. Enjoy Claudia's work! But....... Throwing some serious shade at Ridley Scott? (33:45) Hmm...

[@lyndsaybrown8471]

I hope Geode gets a lot of cosplayers

[@Blazecap]

Who’s left that you haven’t interviewed? I know it’s not a author but Katee Sackhoff would be wonderful!

[@masonmoore7636]

I think he should do Alexander Freed next, he’s my fav canon author rn

[@aleclininger]

@@masonmoore7636 Victory's Price was so good its not even funny. However I do believe Alex interviewed Freed after Shadow Fall. Nevertheless, I would like him to do another interview with him Freed to talk over Victory's Price

[@jordanbarkow4065]

Love the way she describes the Drengir. Makes much more sense now!

[@general_cameroni]

Does anyone know which cook book he's referring to near the beginning? There seem to be several SW cook books and I'm not sure which one.

[@itsliam6367]

Can you pls make a video covering the mandalorian vs jedi battles that happened before the first film?

[@boba_rhett]

Yes! My fellow New Orleanian! Who Dat, Ms. Gray!

[@Bilboswaggins2077]

Her and Soule are keeping canon afloat tbh

[@jinguo3D]

@@jo-jo8807 I think in terms of novels and comics

[@darthwint3823]

Timothy Zahn & Claudia Gray are the king & queen ot SW novelists imo

[@timtetumtetodd]

Omg please, Claudia Gray, write Yaddle with Wolverine's personality in Fallen Star

[@danieljenkins1758]

Claudia's work is fantastic, great interview :)

[@StarWarsTonight]

Can someone please tell me if the interview contains spoilers I’m on page 250

[@RayOfTruth]

I don't think so.

[@StarWarsTonight]

@@RayOfTruth ok I’ve just got to the bit where reath thinks nan is nihill

[@RayOfTruth]

@@StarWarsTonight you should be good then.

[@alanpercival6428]

I finally got round to read Lost stars this week!!! Brilliant ..Will Claudia write a follow up, and connect with the first order..???🎂

[@darthwint3823]

Agreed if there is 1 Star Wars novel i want its Lost Stars 2. She hasn't written a bad SW novel yet imo she's 5 for 5 Lost Stars is my favourite canon novel & 2nd in canon/eu after darth Plagueis.

[@thebluepig3737]

The books are carrying canon so hard right now. Geode is a good character, actually read the book before you hate him

[@MSeanMcManus]

I haven't gotten to Geode yet, but I can't wait!

[@aathmpsn]

@@MSeanMcManus the way the story interacts with him is simply hilarious. Had me laughing out loud way too many times.

[@MSeanMcManus]

@@aathmpsn I can't wait! I'm rereading the Thrawn trilogy before that next book, so ITD is waiting here patiently for me to catch up. LLAP

[@aathmpsn]

@@thealexgundam5006 well in that case it's no big deal that the EU became legends. Glad we cleared that up 👍👍 c'mon man lighten up, you sound like you're on a crusade. Which you probably are, have fun with that, others and I will be enjoying the expansion of canon material. It's for those who want it, I wanted expansion so I read novels after TLJ and knew that Leia took the resistance to Ryloth after the battle of Crait. Is that crucial? No. Did it give me a nerd boner? Oh yes. Have fun belittling this fantasy world I'm sure you'll get far.

[@aathmpsn]

@@MSeanMcManus god that reminds me, we have a new Thrawn novel coming very soon! Gotta freshen up on Chaos Rising again, get back into that headspace!! Love Thrawn!!

[@rebelorian1928]

hello there

[@Blazecap]

You are a bold one

[@keatsgoodwin43334]

Immediate Thumbs Up For Charl

[@anthonyzacchino2876]

I see a charl in the background, I give a thumbs up.

[@robbgodek]

Am I the only one that needs to try port of the storm and Tonneray?

[@johbethemann]

I’d say Star Wars is aesthetically science fiction and narratively fantasy.

[@kylearking8918]

I feel like we will be getting a Lost Stars sequel in a few years in a post Rise of Skywalker world.

[@CousinPaddy]

Put the rock in charge.

[@JJWraith]

14:10-14:56

[@EugeneSmith88113]

Geode was speechless

[@silvernexoknight]

Cool vid

[@vittoriacolona]

Claudia please, please, please, please, do a Rey novel!

[@ZeMeatStick]

Whats your opinion on all the plagiarised art in star wars comics lately?

[@elijahjames2ndchannel]

Geod

[@ronin6501]

Awesome stories in the Republic comics. The Clone Wars are really well done in it. Quinlan Vos kicks ass and is one of my favorite Jedi of all time. Go out and pick up a great Dark Horse Star Wars comic. They even have great Old Republic stories as well. Far better then this.

[@jinguo3D]

💛we are all the republic💛

[@OnlyOneKenobi]

That STAR Trek hand gesture.... was that legit?! 🤦🏻‍♂️ I'd like to think it was a joke but.... 😏

[@RayOfTruth]

It was a joke, she's talked about loving the original series to the point of writing fanfic back when she was in school.

[@kennethsanders6995]

Will not spend my money on SWHR. Preordered Zahns next Thrawn novel. How about a Mando novel? I would love to read a Cara Dune Greef Carga novel.

[@joemullarkey5719]

What’s your point of even coming here? Just to complain about books you haven’t read?

[@edumaicol4141]

@@joemullarkey5719 exactly, THR books are really good, many people complaining and they haven't read it lol

[@theragoooverlord5021]

Yikes !!!.

[@JoeLeasure]

She doesn't seem terrible, and appears to truly enjoy Star Wars. I just can't get on board with a talking rock though. Maybe it's written well, but for me it would need some more explanation than, "he's a rock that's not a Wookie!".

[@JoeLeasure]

@@magykfyre4114 Interesting. Well, I'll keep an open mind then. Thanks.

[@RayOfTruth]

If you check out a Claudia Gray novel I highly recommend Lost Stars which is one of the greatest love letters to the original trilogy.

[@michaelndong4531]

The high republic is ass, the story group needs to be fired alongside Kennedy

[@michaelndong4531]

@@GazingTrandoshan no I just have standard and the high republic is subpar quality, I’m entitled to my opinion and that doesn’t make me less of a fan

[@bullrun2772]

@@michaelndong4531 lol you cclearly miss use the word opinion