Just going to let you guys know, but I’ve been sucked down the same time vortex that Hal was, and I’ve seen the sequel trilogy as well. Therefore, I’m willing to answer questions too (especially since my 2009 self hasn’t even seen Star Wars yet, so there’s no risk of a paradox).
How interesting are Luke’s students? I can’t wait for all the cool actions figures of the redeemed Jedi Order Luke built. I can only imagine all the cool alien Jedi, and everyone being included. It’s about time Lucasfilm gave us another awesome African American Jedi besides Windu! What if he used to work for the Empire but is reformed now?! That would be awesome, a Stormtrooper turned Jedi! What a perfect way to include diversity that isn’t forced! (pun intended).
All I’m gonna say is temper your expectations, especially when it comes to anything Jedi related. The Jedi are not really focused on much; black, white, alien, or otherwise. Just like the aesthetics evoke Rebels vs Empire, the state of the Force evokes the OT status quo of only a few Jedi and Sith at a time. There is a redeemed black stormtrooper though, and he has some pretty cool moments (including wielding a lightsaber a few times).
Does it follow the FOTJ storyline!! Does Luke seek out Abeloth? How does it fit into the Legacy Comics? Who did they cast as Jaina Solo??
I don’t really know half of what you’re talking about, but just know that the events of the books and comics have been almost completely ignored. The new Lucasfilm owners figured it would be easier to tell new stories if they weren’t tied down by the weight of what was already there. This extends beyond the sequels as well: there’s also a movie telling a new interpretation of how the rebels stole the Death Star plans, and a movie telling a new origin story for Han Solo.
Jaina Solo does not exist in the new canon, although a character inspired by Jacen does exist: Ben Solo, aka Kylo Ren. He’s basically the trilogy’s Darth Vader equivalent, and although his actor doesn’t even have a Wikipedia article yet, he’ll end up being the breakout star of the trilogy: basically the Harrison Ford of the new movies.