Info

Tarkin's Top Shelf

A Star Wars literary podcast that strives to deliver an educational and yet, entertaining analysis and outlook, pertaining to the new canonical novels/YA books from the galaxy far, far away. In other words, Becca and Mark are your guardians to the Whills and your librarians to the long-lost Jedi Archives.
RSS Feed Subscribe in Apple Podcasts
Tarkin's Top Shelf
2024
March
February
January


2023
December
November
October
September
August
July
June
May
April
March
February
January


2022
December
November
October
September
August
July
June
May
April
March
February
January


2021
December
November
October
September
August
July
June
May
April
March
February
January


2020
December
November
October
September
August
July
June
May
April
March
February
January


2019
December
November
October
September
August
July
June
May
April
March
February
January


2018
December
November
October
September
August
July
June
May
April
March
February
January


2017
December
November
October
September
August
July
June
May
April
March
January


2016
November
September
August
July
May
April
March
February
January


All Episodes
Archives
Now displaying: 2018
Dec 23, 2018
Another year means a time for reflection, Star Wars: The Last Jedi, one year later. In this episode of Tarkin's Top Shelf, Mark, and Becca discuss the most controversial Star Wars movie of all-time and where their views stand now, one year later. But first, they go over the latest Star Wars news beginning with the announcement of Black Panther's composer, Ludwig Göransson joining the galaxy far, far away to score, The Mandalorian. Following up with the latest comics, Age of the Republic and Fortress Vader. So, hop into your escape pod and ship yourself to the galaxy far, far away, and let the past die. Kill it if you have to. After all, as a wise Jedi once said, "the greatest teacher, failure is," and "we are what they grow beyond."
 

Help us spread the word about the show

Dec 11, 2018

In this episode of "Tarkin's Top Shelf," Mark, and Becca recap the Heroes, Scoundrels, and Villains of Star Wars from 2018! Yes, it's time to pull the Star Wars Bookends off the shelf, the Top Shelf, and highlight the literature aspects that had an impact or enriched/enhanced the Star Wars Universe in some way, making said books essential to the Star Wars storyline. But, before your hosts' dust off the books from 2018, they go-over some book news and speculate a bit about the upcoming "Thrawn Treason," and the debut of Star Wars: Galaxy of Adventures and more! So, get ready to recap some of the literary highlights of 2018 that made the galaxy far, far away a whole lot bigger and brighter!

Help us spread the word about the show

Nov 24, 2018

The hosts of "Tarkin's Top Shelf" sit-down to talk about worldbuilding in Star Wars. Mark and Becca discuss the growing galaxy of Star Wars between the books and on screen. In other words, the future of Star Wars is bright! In fact, so bright that the galaxy far, far away is extending well beyond the unknown regions. Well, from a certain point of view, of course.

Star Wars is worldbuilding with additions like The Mandalorian and the Cassian Andor series and the animation shows of Star Wars Resistance, and the return of Star Wars: The Clone Wars. No to mention, more books like The Queen's Shadow and Master and Apprentice, and The Alphabet Squadron. Oh, and let's not forget the new Vader's Castle comics series. Yes, it would appear that there is no end in sight for Star Wars and that's a good thing, right? After all, these new extensions will only enhance the stories from a long time ago, in a galaxy far, far away. That said, don't miss out on this thought-provoking episode on Star Wars Worldbuilding: Between Books and On Screen.

 

Help us spread the word about the show

Nov 12, 2018

"Tarkin's Top Shelf" welcomes the author of Star Wars: Women of the Galaxy, Amy Ratcliffe to the show! In this episode, Mark, and Becca sit-down with Amy Ratcliffe and talk Star Wars. They discuss the early concept of Star Wars: Women of the Galaxy, the beginning stages of "setting the stage," matching the illustration artistry with literary depiction, and the tone behind the womanly facts of the galaxy far, far away. All-in-all, this is one book review you don't want to miss!

 

Help us spread the word about the show

Nov 6, 2018

"Tarkin's Top Shelf" discusses the symbolism of fire and its relevance in Star Wars Lore. Mark and Becca welcome Michael Moreci, a Star Wars comics writer, and novelist to the show to join them on their journey through fire walking and innocent until proven guilty in Star Wars. During their discussion, they not only dissect specific scenes across the saga films but other mediums as well. Namely, Ken Liu's Star Wars: The Legends of Luke Skywalker. So, get ready for a mind-blowing conversation that will forever change the way you watch Star Wars: The Last Jedi. 

Help us spread the word about the show

 

Oct 22, 2018

"Tarkin's Top Shelf" celebrates their 50th Episode Anniversary with Lando's Luck by Justina Ireland and Disney Press. In this episode, Mark, and Becca review the latest literary continuation to Solo: A Star Wars Story, Lando's Luck! This young reader is about 150 pages long and follows Lando and L3-37 on an all-new adventure. A story about one of our saga's greatest smugglers who chooses to do the right thing and in doing so becomes a hero. And sometimes, being a hero is worth more than money, even to a scoundrel like Lando Calrissian. So, buckle up baby, it's going to be one helluva discussion!

Oct 2, 2018

Tarkin's Top Shelf" revisits Star Wars with The Complete Visual Dictionary (New Edition) by DK Publishing. In this episode, Mark, and Becca review the newly updated Visual Dictionary by highlighting their personal favorites. But, before they dive-in, they go over some of the latest Star Wars news. Including, leaked sets for the Live Action TV series for Star Wars, Solo: A Star Wars Story Blu-Ray edition, and the upcoming book, Star Wars: Women Of the Galaxy by Amy Ratcliffe. So, strap yourselves in, you're in for on helluva Star Wars factoid ride!

Help us spread the word about the show

Sep 20, 2018

In this episode of "Tarkin's Top Shelf," Mark, and Becca break-in the binding of those so-called, Sacred Jedi Texts. Well, figuratively speaking, of course. Star Wars is full of many mythical themes and story tropes, and also religion and spirituality too. A lot of these aspects are repetitive, sprinkled throughout the generations of the Star Wars saga. And mostly showcased in the Skywalker line or legacy, starting with Anakin Skywalker. So, without further ado, hit that play button and kick back with some Sacred Jedi Texts exploration, from a Biblical lens. Enjoy "Tarkin's Top Shelf's" journey into the parallels between Star Wars and the Sins of the Father.

 

 

Sep 4, 2018
On this episode of Tarkin's Top Shelf, Mark, and Becca discuss and analyze the latest literary Star Wars film adaptation, SOLO, the Expanded Edition by Mur Lafferty and Del Rey Books. They go over the characters, the flow of the film as compared to the jive in the book format, and the expanded scenes not seen on screen. And then, when all is said and done, your hosts determine whether or not they feel Solo: A Star Wars Story Expanded Edition should be considered essential reading. So, buckle up baby! Punch it, Chewie! 
 
Aug 29, 2018

Tarkin's Top Shelf welcomes Michael Kogge the author of Star Wars: The Last Jedi 'A Junior Novel,' to the show. Michael Kogge is also known for Empire of the Wolf, and junior novel adaptations for Star Wars: The Force Awakens and Batman vs. Superman: Crossfire. In this episode, Michael Kogge joins Mark and Becca to discuss his literary adaptation of Star Wars: The Last Jedi 'A Junior Novel.' The hosts of Tarkin's Top Shelf take turns asking questions varying from character perspectives and directions, to conceptual angles and motivations, and so much more. So, tune in now and learn even more about The Last Jedi, for all things are possible in the Force!

  Help us spread the word about the show

Aug 25, 2018

Is it possible that we'll see a literary character(s) crossover in Star Wars Resistance? In this episode, Mark and Becca discuss the possibility of characters from the Star Wars literary universe crossing over into the upcoming animated series, Star Wars Resistance. After all, if one is to understand the great mystery that is Star Wars, one must study all its aspects, not just the films. And so, Tarkin's Top Shelf continues to dive deep into the books and relentlessly look for continuity connections between the pages of the books and everything in between.

 

  Help us spread the word about the show

Aug 9, 2018

Welcome to a Clone Wars Chat with JAT! Today we are humbled and honored to welcome, James Arnold Taylor (JAT), the voice of Master Obi-Wan Kenobi and Plo Koon from Star Wars: The Clone Wars, Ratchet, Tidus, Johnny Test, Fred Flintstone, Flash, Spidey, Fox Sunday and the author of JAT 365: 365 inspirations for the pursuit of your dreams to our show! In this episode, Mark and Becca sitdown with the man of many voices, James Arnold Taylor to talk about The Clone Wars and everything in between.

  Help us spread the word about the show

Jul 28, 2018

"Tarkin's Top Shelf" welcomes Ashley Eckstein, the voice of Ahsoka Tano, the creator of Her Universe, and the author of "It's YOUR Universe" to the show! In this episode, Mark and Becca join Ashley in discussing her journey through dreams and hope by delving into her memoir of positivity preparation. Along their journey-filled discussion, they take a moment to touch on Ahsoka Tano and the revival of Star War: The Clone Wars announcement from San Diego Comic Con.

  Help us spread the word about the show

Jul 26, 2018

"Tarkin's Top Shelf" revisits an old friend with Star Wars: THRAWN: Alliances by Timothy Zahn and Del Rey Books. In this episode, Mark and Becca discuss the unlikely duo of General Anakin Skywalker and Commander Mith’raw’nuruodo and then, the fierce rivals of Darth Vader and Admiral Thrawn. It's not just about character dynamics, it's about dark secrets, and plot twists too. And "Tarkin's Top Shelf" is about to uncover, and go over it all!  After all, if one is to face their future, you must first face your past.

  Help us spread the word about the show

Jul 11, 2018

Tarkin's Top Shelf gets back to the basics with Star Wars: Most Wanted by Rae Carson and Disney/Lucasfilm Press. In this episode, Mark and Becca break the binding by taking a closer look, through a critical lens at the prequel to Solo: A Star Wars Story, Star Wars: Most Wanted. Each host takes a turn fleshing out each character and discussing the plot, pace, and flow of the storyline. They even take the time to connect current and past content to this well contained Han and Qi'ra centric adventure. Oh, and that's not all! Mark throws in an extra review as he gives a quick rundown of Star Wars: The Mighty Chewbacca in the Forest of Fear!

 

  Help us spread the word about the show

Jun 30, 2018

Tarkin's Top Shelf welcomes Dan Wallace to the show to talk about Star Wars: The Rebel Files. Dan Wallace is the author of Jedi Path, Book of Sith, Imperial Handbook, The Bounty Hunter Code, and the soon-to-be-released, The Rebel Files. In this episode, Mark and Becca sitdown with Dan Wallace to discuss Star Wars and The Rebel Files. This interview takes on a personal perspective by Dan Wallace as he delves into his love for Star Wars and his vision on the galaxy far, far away. It's an interview you don't want to miss!

  Help us spread the word about the show

Jun 21, 2018

Mark and Becca are back to talk about the Force and the Whills. In this episode of Tarkin's Top Shelf, your hosts get into some real controversial territory as they discuss the recent conversation between George Lucas and James Cameron. Each host takes a turn shedding light and connecting current continuity to Lucas' ideas for the final Star Wars trilogy. So, give it a listen and you be the judge on should've, could've, would've?

  Help us spread the word about the show

 

May 30, 2018

Solo: A Star Wars Story is NOW playing in theaters, and Tarkin's Top Shelf is ready to talk about it! Mark and Becca have a lot to say about Solo and so much more. Unlike the other Solo reviews you've listened to on other podcasts, Tarkin's Top Shelf has decided to turn it up a notch. Why? Well, because so much can Spawn from Solo! So, you may want to strap yourselves in and keep an eye out for the Maw. Only a complete idiot would go into a place like that.

 

Help us spread the word about the show

May 16, 2018

Mark and Becca are back to talk about some recent Star Wars News and that 'Mighty Skywalker Blood!' In this episode, they go over a variety of Star Wars literature that focuses on the Skywalker family. In doing so, they tackle that burning question that's circulating the internet: "Were Han and Leia 'Bad Parents?'" So, grab your 'Jedi breathing device' and get ready for a deep discussion on Tarkin's Top Shelf.

Help us spread the word about the show

May 2, 2018

Mark and Becca are back to talk about Daniel José Older's 'Star Wars: Last Shot!' In this episode, they go over the leading cast and the thrilling adventure that links them throughout the ages. Still, it's hard to decide if 'Last Shot' is Han's or Lando's story, or both! So, buckle up and fly casual with Tarkin's Top Shelf.

Help us spread the word about the show

Apr 19, 2018
​Mark and Becca are back to talk about Luke dreaming of Camie and the SOLO full-length theatrical trailer. In this episode, they discuss and go over the prelude from Jason Fry's novel adaptation of "The Last Jedi." Then they dive-in to Solo: A Star Wars Story Official Trailer and the possibilities for Older's "Last Shot."  It's a lot to digest, but hey, it's Star Wars! So grab a mug of Luke's favorite green-milk and get ready for some Tarkin's Top Shelf!
 
Sources for discussion:
Star Wars: The Last Jedi 'Expanded Edition' by Jason Fry
Solo: A Star Wars Story full-length Theatrical Trailer
 
Mar 23, 2018

Mark and Becca are back to add Star Wars: The Last Jedi to Tarkin's Top Shelf. In this episode, they discuss and go over their initial reactions to Jason Fry's novel adaptation of The Last Jedi. The good. The not so good. And, yeah, the unexpected too. Yes, the cohesion of film to paper, the characters' motivations, and connective continuity. It's a lot to digest, but hey, it's Star Wars! So, grab a mug of Luke's favorite green-milk and get ready for some Tarkin's Top Shelf!

Help us spread the word about the show

Mar 2, 2018

  Welcome to a special episode of Tarkin's Top Shelf! Mark and Becca are joined by Michael Moreci to talk parallels. Yup, that's right! Parallels and the blurred lines between The Last Jedi and the novelization of Revenge of the Sith. It is a story of love and loss.  Brotherhood and betrayal. Courage and sacrifice. And the death of dreams. It is a story of the blurred line between our best and our worst. It is the story of the end of an age.  And you don't want to miss it! So as always, grab a warm mug of Luke's favorite green-milk and join the conversation.

 Help us spread the word about the show

Feb 22, 2018

A Galaxy of New Books has spawned from Solo! That's right! Disney Books has delivered the upcoming literary list of Solo Adventures:  Star Wars: Last Shot and Star Wars: Most Wanted to name a few. Mark and Becca are ready to jump on that Solo train to an all-new slew of Star Wars stories! So, don't get left behind.  Join the ride and head to the literary-verse of that galaxy far, far away.

Feb 7, 2018
It's a Special Edition of Tarkin's Top Shelf! Solo: A Star Wars Story Teaser Overview and book possibilities. In this episode, Mark, and Becca discuss the Official Teaser for Solo: A Star Wars Story. They also go over some plausible scenarios for literary adaptations for the future film. So get ready as we fly low and talk all about everyone's favorite flyboy, Solo!

You can find Tarkin's Top Shelf on the Making Star Wars Podcasting Network and listen to them on iTunes, Google Play, iHeart Radio, Player FM, Libsyn, and Stitcher. If you like the show and want to get in touch with the hosts, send an email to TTSPodFeelback@gmail.com.
 
1 2 Next »