Zany week in Discworld

I needed a zany reading breather. And what better way to do that than with Terry Pratchett! It has been a decade since I first read these precious gems; it was definitely time to join the gang of Rincewind, Granny, and the Luggage again. Plus, now I have a blog to put out reviews of these idiosyncratic novels. Here we go...

The Color of Magic by Terry Pratchett

The original Discworld novel. Where it all began. Where it all tripped on the rug, and the delicate act of faceplanting made us all laugh secretly because we wouldn't want to laugh out loud at someone's misfortune until we know everyone else is laughing with us.

I absolutely love this very first book. We are introduced with some of the best characters in literature, and not all of them are exactly human. There is magic and failed wizardy, demonic technology, cognizant luggage, and the quantum physics. These books expand the way you think about the world around you. 

The Light Fantastic by Terry Pratchett

The second Discworld novel and a sequel to The Color of Magic. We wrap up the journey of Rincewind, Twoflower, and the Spell. More loveable characters are introduced and more puns are scandalously redressed.

I really feel that Pratchett captured the essence of a tourist so well in these two starting novels. He elegantly mocks and pokes fun while being serious. My brain appreciated the humor. I have been hooked by the Discworld all over again.

Equal Rites by Terry Pratchett

The third Discworld novel departs from Rincewind and takes us to the magic of witches, which is not a male magic but a woman's magic, and Granny Weatherwax. 

This novel is a wonderful poke at roles of gender and societal expectations of occupations.

What I love must is the tear down of expectations without any actual stance. Pratchett allows you to come to your own conclusions about how things should work. He points out the ridiculous with exaggeration; you determine what the result should be.

The wit behind the Discworld books is not for everyone. However, it fits my style perfectly. There is a little bit of thinking involved while being a relaxing read. They challenge our acceptance of the societal "norm" while not being preachy. Pratchett looks at syntax and semantics with a truly British eye. I'll be continuing with the Discworld and have a long list to get through indeed.