Aaron Allston isn't a Sith Lord, but the New York Times best-selling author will get treated like Darth Vader tonight at the Borders in Lee's Summit (1664 Northwest Chipman Road, 816-347-1631). Local stormtroopers from the 70th Explorers of the 501st Legion will (imperial) march Allston to the 7 p.m. reading of his latest novel, Star Wars: Fate of the Jedi: Outcast. Yes, Star Wars lives on, even after George Lucas turned to the dark side and thrust a light saber through the heart of his franchise with the abomination known as The Phantom Menace. Star Wars lives — and thrives — thanks to writers, such as Allston, who treat the saga as sacred mythology. For his respectful treatment of the sci-fi series' legacy, expect to see the stormtroopers (and everyone else) treat Allston like an emperor as he signs copies of Outcast. In the book, an anti-Jedi backlash has swept the galaxy, and those on the light side of the force are wanted men — including Luke Skywalker. Beats a floppy-eared CGI goof screaming, "Annie!
Thu., March 26, 7 p.m., 2009
