Examines the Star Wars (SW) phenomenon from the audience¿s perspective. Discovers that the saga exerts a powerful influence over the social, cultural, & spiritual lives of those drawn into its myth. Unearths a seemingly endless array of fans who use & interpret the saga in a number of ways. Examines the role of gender & generation in creating sub-commun. within the larger group of SW devotees. Discusses the films & stories created by thousands of fans, & asks whether this apparently unstoppable creativity can be controlled by an org. that has positioned itself in the role of the Empire & turned loyal fans into Rebels. ¿The book serves as a testament to the extraordinary power of the SW films & the expanded universe that surrounds them.

¿ Illustrations.