1. Start with the first book in the Discworld series: “The Colour of Magic” (1983).
2. Follow up with the second book: “The Light Fantastic” (1986).
3. Continue with the third book: “Equal Rites” (1987).
4. Move on to the fourth book: “Mort” (1987).
5. Proceed with the fifth book: “Sourcery” (1988).
6. Read the sixth book: “Wyrd Sisters” (1988).
7. Dive into the seventh book: “Pyramids” (1989).
8. Discover the eighth book: “Guards! Guards!” (1989).
9. Explore the ninth book: “Eric” (1990).
10. Enjoy the tenth book: “Moving Pictures” (1990).
11. Continue with the eleventh book: “Reaper Man” (1991).
12. Delve into the twelfth book: “Witches Abroad” (1991).
13. Follow up with the thirteenth book: “Small Gods” (1992).
14. Proceed with the fourteenth book: “Lords and Ladies” (1992).
15. Move on to the fifteenth book: “Men at Arms” (1993).
16. Read the sixteenth book: “Soul Music” (1994).
17. Explore the seventeenth book: “Interesting Times” (1994).
18. Enjoy the eighteenth book: “Maskerade” (1995).
19. Continue with the nineteenth book: “Feet of Clay” (1996).
20. Delve into the twentieth book: “Hogfather” (1996).
21. Follow up with the twenty-first book: “Jingo” (1997).
22. Proceed with the twenty-second book: “The Last Continent” (1998).
23. Move on to the twenty-third book: “Carpe Jugulum” (1998).
24. Read the twenty-fourth book: “The Fifth Elephant” (1999).
25. Explore the twenty-fifth book: “The Truth” (2000).
26. Enjoy the twenty-sixth book: “Thief of Time” (2001).
27. Continue with the twenty-seventh book: “The Last Hero” (2001).
28. Delve into the twenty-eighth book: “The Amazing Maurice and His Educated Rodents” (2001).
29. Follow up with the twenty-ninth book: “Night Watch” (2002).
30. Finally, read the thirtieth book: “The Wee Free Men” (2003) the first book in the Tiffany Aching series, set in the same universe as Discworld.
More About Where To Start With Terry Pratchett
Title: Embarking on a Literary Adventure: Where to Begin with Terry Pratchett
Introduction:
Welcome, fellow readers, to an enchanting realm where wit, satire, and imagination converge harmoniously. This is a place where dragons can be friends with seamstresses, where mischievous gods meddle with mortals, and where the extraordinary resides amidst the ordinary. This magical realm is none other than the fantastical universe conceived by the incomparable Sir Terry Pratchett.
For those new to the enchanting works of Sir Terry Pratchett, or perhaps even the world of fantasy literature, you have indeed stumbled upon a treasure trove of mirthful storytelling. With over 70 books to choose from, traversing various series and stand-alone novels, delving into Pratchett’s Discworld series can seem like a daunting task. Fear not, for in this introduction, we shall embark on a journey to discover the perfect starting point that will guide you on an unforgettable literary adventure.
Terry Pratchett’s Discworld series, set upon a disc-shaped planet supported by four elephants standing on the back of a giant turtle, is a realm teeming with memorable characters, untamed magic, and thought-provoking social commentary. Each of Pratchett’s books can be read as standalone adventures, but for those seeking to immerse themselves in the rich tapestry of Discworld, a discerning eye can spot various subseries within this interconnected universe.
A suitable entry point for novice readers is the “City Watch” subseries, which brilliantly blends wit, crime, and political satire. Begin with “Guards! Guards!” to meet Ankh-Morpork’s cynical yet lovable Watchmen as they tackle issues ranging from dragons causing havoc to purging corruption within the city walls. With each subsequent book, including “Men at Arms,” “Feet of Clay,” and “Thud!,” readers explore themes of justice, identity, and societal change through the eyes of a diverse cast of endearing characters.
If whimsical witches and their peculiar brews tickle your fancy, then the “Witches” subseries is a marvelous starting point. Delve into “Equal Rites,” where Granny Weatherwax and young Eskarina Smith challenge the gender biases of wizardry in the guise of a hilarious adventure. In subsequent novels like “Wyrd Sisters,” “Lords and Ladies,” and “Maskerade,” Pratchett masterfully explores the power of belief, the perils of meddling with destiny, and the complexity of good and evil.
For those seeking contemplation on faith, the nature of existence, and the significance of small things, the “Death” subseries offers profundity cloaked in delightful humor. Open the pages of “Mort” to discover the unorthodox duties of Death’s apprentice and marvel at the philosophical questions raised in books such as “Reaper Man,” “Soul Music,” and “Hogfather.”
Additionally, each Pratchett novel, whether part of a subseries or not, stands as a beautifully crafted work in its own right. Explore stand-alone novels like “Small Gods,” a poignant exploration of the nature of belief; “Going Postal,” a tale of redemption featuring the enigmatic Moist von Lipwig; or “The Truth,” where William de Worde finds himself embroiled in the intricacies of the fledgling Ankh-Morpork newspaper.
Embarking on a Terry Pratchett literary adventure grants readers an escape from reality while simultaneously provoking thought, often exploring themes relevant to our own world through a whimsical lens. As you journey through Discworld’s many nooks and crannies, you will encounter laughter, profound insights, and a delightful cast of characters who will remain in your heart long after the final page.
So, dear readers, whether you seek to befriend a watchman, sip tea with witches, converse with Death, or explore the intricacies of a standalone tale, Terry Pratchett’s vast literary tapestry awaits you. Open the pages and surrender yourself to the wry, enchanting world of Discworld. Your adventure begins here!
Where To Start With Terry Pratchett FAQs:
Q1: Who is Terry Pratchett?
A1: Sir Terry Pratchett (1948-2015) was a renowned English author best known for his Discworld series, a popular collection of fantasy novels filled with humor, satire, and social commentary.
Q2: What is Discworld?
A2: Discworld is a fictional flat world that rests on the backs of four elephants, who are in turn standing on the back of a giant turtle swimming through space. Pratchett’s series is set in this peculiar world.
Q3: Which book should I read first?
A3: “The Colour of Magic” is the first book in the Discworld series and a great starting point. However, some readers suggest beginning with another book that focuses on a character you find intriguing, like “Guards! Guards!” for the City Watch storyline or “Wyrd Sisters” for the Witches series.
Q4: Do I need to read the Discworld books in order?
A4: Although the storylines are interconnected and characters often reappear, Discworld novels can be enjoyed as standalone stories as well. Reading them in order can provide a better understanding of the world and character development, but it is not necessary.
Q5: How many books are in the Discworld series?
A5: There are a total of 41 Discworld novels written by Terry Pratchett. The series covers a wide range of topics and genres, such as fantasy, parody, mystery, and even Shakespearean adaptations.
Q6: Are there any spin-off series or companion books related to Discworld?
A6: Yes, Pratchett wrote a few spin-off series set in the Discworld universe, including the “Tiffany Aching” books and “The Science of Discworld” series, co-authored by science writers. Also, there are several reference books like “The Discworld Companion” that provide more information about the world and its characters.
Q7: Is Terry Pratchett’s writing suitable for all ages?
A7: While Pratchett’s work contains humor and satire that can be appreciated by readers of all ages, some of his books tackle more mature themes. The later novels in the series are generally considered more suitable for adult readers.
Q8: Are there any recommended reading orders besides chronological release?
A8: Some fans prefer to read the books by character storylines. A suggested reading order for the City Watch storyline, for example, would be: “Guards! Guards!” -> “Men at Arms” -> “Feet of Clay” -> “Jingo” -> “The Fifth Elephant” -> “Night Watch” -> “Thud!” -> “Snuff” -> “Raising Steam”.
Q9: Can I expect significant character development in the Discworld series?
A9: Yes, Pratchett’s characters often undergo personal growth and change throughout the series. Many readers appreciate how the characters become more complex and well-rounded with every subsequent book.
Q10: What other authors should I explore if I enjoy Terry Pratchett’s writing?
A10: If you enjoy Pratchett’s blend of humor, satire, and fantasy, you may find authors like Douglas Adams, Neil Gaiman, Jasper Fforde, Tom Holt, or Christopher Moore appealing as well. They all bring their unique styles and humor to the genres they write in.
