The good, the bad, and the impossibly beautiful

[vilakins]

I am delighted to see that Terry Pratchett has a knighthood. Perhaps even Vimes would approve. :-)

I just finished reading Jingo yesterday, and rather think it joins my favourite Discworld novels. I loved this one: very funny (esp The Boat--yes, I did get the reference; Nobby finding his feminine side; Vetinari's hidden talents with melons, knives

Comments

[vilakins]

I don't think I've read him. I do prefer more manageable books that are efficient in their use of prose. This wiki entry may help. :-)

I started reading Pratchett about two years ago, slow to get to them because the old covers made the books look lewd. In fact they're very clever, often with biting social commentary (though I disliked Small Gods which was too serious and preachy and lacked humour). With a couple of exceptions, I love the books.

I'd start from the beginning going by this reading order. I do think he was finding his way with the first two, and I'd avoid Eric which I found substandard (though his standard is very high). I have discovered that I most love the City Watch books followed by the Witches (though one-offs like Pyramids are also loads of fun). Also, who knew that Death (who is in almost every book) could be such a great character?

I'm still just over halfway through; I'd like to see what you think of them. I have to say that Pratchett creates a lot of very distinct and fascinating characters who grow with each book, and that's pretty amazing in a comic writer, though one with surprising depth.

[thetisonline]

Sorry about the delay writing back.

Going to grab some Pratchett at the library next week ... I'll let you know what I think.