In 1978, the first example of an expanded universe Star Wars novel was published by author Alan Dean Foster. Foster had previously written the novelization to Star Wars, and his contract required him to write a book that could serve as a low-budget sequel in the chance the film was not a huge success. He couldn’t use Han Solo, but was told to reuse props and keep the scenery to a minimum, and out of this direction came Splinter of the Mind’s Eye. Tim, Tommy, and Rob discuss the book, what it would have been like as a film, and whether or not it’s a good read for modern Star Wars fans.

If you follow our Geeky Art board on Pinterest you know that we’re all a bit obsessed with the awesome work that geeky artists are producing constantly. When I saw these great Star Wars Pixel Art portraits by Ryan Andrews though, I knew I had to post them on the site. I’ve seen plenty of examples of Star Wars pixel art before, but Ryan’s portraits have a style to them that is really distinct. So far he’s done Obi-Wan, Luke, Han Solo and Chewie, and C-3PO. I can’t wait to see his take on Darth Vader and Bobo Fett.

You can check them all out on his blog, or view his portfolio site.

There have been Star Wars-themed alphabets before. Creating a children’s primer of Star Wars ABCs or turning a Stormtrooper into an “S” letter form is nothing new.

However, the current series of illustrations by Dave Daniels is the best I’ve seen. The Toronto-based artist and self-proclaimed Star Wars fanatic is posting his creations within the popular photo sharing app Instagram.

Daniels has worked up to the letter K so far. Each letter gets a wonderful caricature of a Star Wars character representing that letter: A for Ackbar, B for Bossk, C for C-3PO, D for Dengar, E for Ewok, F for Fett, G for Greedo, H for Hutt, I for IG-88, J for Jawa, and K for Kenobi.

You can see all Dave’s creations on Instagram under his username “jaggedgrace.” If you’re iOS-less, you can view them all over at Webstagram, a web viewer for Instagram photos.

Dave told me he’s doing the drawings “just for fun.” They definitely brighten my day and I look forward to what he has in store for the rest of the alphabet. Here’s hoping he draws an Ugnaught for U.

Incidentally, I’m compiling a list of comic artists and illustrators on Instagram. If you have a suggestion for creators who routinely post their work on there — or you are an Instagram artist — please include a comment below with their/your username. I’ll be posting some of my favorites (along with yours) in a future THS post.

Tim and Tommy are always up for talking Lego, and this week they have a lot to talk about. 2012 is a huge year for the toy company, with Marvel Super Heroes, Lord of the Rings, Dino, Friends, and Monster Hunter lines debuting, alongside additional sets in all the classic series. Throw in a few more of the collectible minifigures and you’ve got a great year to be obsessed with LEGO.