Fiction

Background

Published in 1987, “Mort” is a novel by Terry Pratchett, and part of the Discworld series. The story follows Mort, an awkward and unhappy apprentice to his family’s farm, who is unexpectedly taken on as an apprentice by Death himself. Mort learns the ropes of his new job, which includes collecting souls and ferrying them to the afterlife. He also begins to question the nature of death and his own place in the world.

Mort’s journey takes him to all corners of the Discworld, where he encounters a variety of characters, including the witches Granny Weatherwax and Nanny Ogg, the wizard Rincewind, and the vampire lord Krok. Along the way, he learns about the importance of life, death, and free will.

My Thoughts

This was such a good book! British whimsy regarding death himself! This has been my favorite book so far in the series.

Recommendation

Great read. Highly suggested.

Background

Published in 1987, “Equal Rites” is the third novel in Terry Pratchett’s Discworld series. The book follows the story of Eskarina Smith, a young girl who has inherited the wizarding abilities traditionally reserved for boys. Despite societal expectations and the disapproval of the wizards at Unseen University, Esk sets out to become a wizard herself. With the help of Granny Weatherwax, a wise witch, they navigate a world filled with magic, gender stereotypes, and comedic mishaps.

My Thoughts

This was a fun book and a great canvas to paint the story of Granny Weatherwax. Such a great character and a departure from the traditional witch. I also enjoyed the whole idea of the female wizard and the struggles others would have with that possibility. One could forget this was written in 1987.

Recommendation

Great read.

Background

“The Light Fantastic” is the second novel in Terry Pratchett’s Discworld series. Set in a flat world resting on the backs of four elephants carried by a giant turtle, it follows the misadventures of the bumbling wizard Rincewind and his hapless companion Twoflower. When a red star appears in the sky, threatening to collide with Discworld and bring about the end of the world, Rincewind, Twoflower, and an odd assortment of characters embark on a hilarious and perilous journey to save the day.

My Thoughts

This one took a little bit to grow on me but I learned to like the characters. (Particularly, the luggage.)

Recommendation

Not his best work but still interesting

Background

Published in January of 2023, “Tress of the Emerald Sea” is a fantasy book written by Brandon Sanderson. Tress is a simple girl from a remote island until her one love is captured. She takes it upon herself to venture out to rescue him from the dreaded sorceress of the midnight sea. Sanderson creates an entire world full of unique dangers and delights and yet relatable to any audience.

My Thoughts

This really was a great book and it took me (seemingly) forever to get through it as I was reading just a little before bed each night. I really enjoyed the journey and loved this little one off for Sanderson.

Recommendation

Very enjoyable read.

Background

Published in 1983, “The Color of Magic” is the first novel in Terry Pratchett’s Discworld series. The book introduces readers to the fantastical and humorous world of Discworld, a flat disc-shaped world carried on the backs of four elephants standing on a giant turtle. The story follows the bumbling wizard Rincewind, who is reluctantly swept up in a series of chaotic and dangerous events after encountering the naïve tourist Twoflower and his magical luggage. As they travel across Discworld, they encounter eccentric characters, wacky situations, and parodies of fantasy tropes.

My Thoughts

I’m writing this review after reading a few more novels in the Discworld series and I can see how Sir Pratchett was just getting his footing in the new world he was creating. (I wonder if he had any idea how prolific and expansive this series would be?) I still enjoyed it but feel it wandered around a bit in the beginning. It took me a while to feel that he got on track. Still, I’m glad I read this one first.

Recommendation

Worth the read but they get better later on.

Background

Published in 2000, “Storm Front” by Jim Butcher is an urban fantasy novel that introduces Harry Dresden, a wizard and private investigator in modern-day Chicago. In a world where magic and supernatural beings exist, Dresden becomes entangled in a web of mystery and danger when a series of brutal murders occurs in the city. Using his unique skills and dry sense of humor, Dresden must navigate alliances, confront ancient powers, and unravel a conspiracy that threatens both the mortal and supernatural realms.

My Thoughts

I ran a half marathon and wanted something both familiar and enjoyable to listen to while I put one foot in front of the other. Also, a friend of mine said the book didn’t really hold up after he had read the series. So, I was curious and pulled it down again. I was glad I did.

This book isn’t as refined as his later work but it was also his first foray into the writing business. As it was a class assignment Butcher’s teacher said was good enough for prime time, I don’t know we should be making too many judgements.

Regardless, I still enjoyed the book. Harry Dresden is a wonderful character and it was a pleasure to revisit him when he had more humility and was just getting started. When I was done with the run, I had to finish it!

Recommendation

Great book, great series. Not for children but I can’t say enough good things.