Terry Pratchett’s Discworld series is a fantasy novel that follows the adventures of characters living on an entirely flat disc world carried by four giant elephants standing atop the back of a giant turtle.
Throughout the series, readers are taken on a journey across this strange universe as they explore its imaginary countries and creatures.
Terry Pratchett was able to craft stories that were both humorous and thought-provoking at the same time—a rare feat indeed, and one of the reason why his books remain so beloved.
Guards! Guards! (1989)
Guards! Guards! follows a group of misfit City Watch officers as they try to prevent an evil dragon from taking over their city. The book features plenty of humor and action as the watchmen use creative tactics to save their beloved city, Ankh-Morpork.
Small Gods (1992)
Small Gods is one of Pratchett’s most highly acclaimed books.
The novel follows the journey of a down-on-his luck religious leader as he searches for true faith. With its mix of satire, humor, and thought-provoking commentary on religion, Small Gods is an essential read for fans of Pratchett’s work.
Small Gods tells the story of a god known as Om who has been forgotten by his people due to lack of faith in him which has caused him to become small enough to fit into a tortoise shell.
The story follows Om’s journey as he attempts to regain his lost power through gaining belief from others while also learning what it means to be human along the way.
This novel contains some wonderful character development and will keep you engaged until its conclusion..
The Color Of Magic (1983)
The Color Of Magic is the first book in Pratchett’s Discworld series. It’s the book that started it all, that first showed the world the great talent that is Pratchett – and despite it all, remains one of the best to this day.
It follows the adventures of Rincewind, a wizard with no magical powers who is sent on a quest by an old wizard to save the world from destruction.
This book introduces us to many beloved characters, including Twoflower, a naïve tourist from another world, and Death, an anthropomorphic personification who plays a major role throughout the series.
It’s a great introduction to the Discworld universe for new readers and a nostalgic return for longtime fans.
Night Watch (2002)
Night Watch is one of Pratchett’s most acclaimed novels and it has been adapted into both film and television.
The story follows Sam Vimes, captain of Ankh-Morpork’s City Watch, who must travel back in time to stop a revolution before it begins.
This novel features some of Pratchett’s best writing as he examines themes such as justice, loyalty, and power through Sam’s eyes.
It also features some truly memorable characters like Carcer Dun, an insane but brilliant criminal mastermind. Night Watch stands as one of Pratchett’s most ambitious novels and it remains one of his best books today.
Going Postal (2004)
Going Postal is another standout novel in the Discworld series that follows conman Moist von Lipwig as he attempts to revive Ankh-Morpork’s defunct postal service in order to avoid execution for his crimes.
Going Postal expertly blends humor with drama as Moist faces off against Reacher Gilt, an unscrupulous businessman trying to take advantage of him at every turn.
The book also introduces us to Adora Belle Dearheart—one of the most beloved female characters in all of literature—who helps Moist outwit Gilt while they fall in love along the way.
Going Postal is funny yet touching; lighthearted yet meaningful and accessible—in short, it’s one of Terry Pratchett’s best books ever written!
Good Omens: The Nice and Accurate Prophecies of Agnes Nutter, Witch (With Neil Gaiman, 1990)
This book is a collaboration between Pratchett and fellow British author, Neil Gaiman.
It follows the story of an angel (Aziraphale) and a demon (Crowley) trying to prevent Armageddon from occurring due to prophecies about the coming Antichrist.
This book is full of wit and humor that will keep readers laughing throughout its pages.
It also serves as an introduction to Pratchett’s work for those who have yet to experience it.
In 2019, Amazon Prime launched a series based on the book, to great critical acclaim.
Reaper Man (1991)
This book has an underlying hilarious premise: Death decides to quit his job and go live his life peacefully.
In this Discworld novel we follow Death as he takes leave from his job as the Grim Reaper in order to experience life on his own terms while another character takes over his role temporarily.
During his absence chaos ensues when certain characters begin manipulating death for their own gain.
In this story we get to see how much Death knows about life despite never having experienced it himself.
Equal Rites (1987)
Equal Rites, published in 1987, is the third novel in Terry Pratchett’s Discworld series.
The story follows Eskarina Smith, who is determined to become a wizard despite the fact that wizards are traditionally male.
Despite all odds, and with the help of her granny Granny Weatherwax and other witches, Eskarina is determined to prove that she has the same capabilities as a male wizard.
In her quest, she faces many obstacles including prejudice from both men and women, who do not want to see a female become a wizard.
Nonetheless, Eskarina perseveres in her vision and eventually becomes accepted by the wizards of Unseen University.
Equal Rites is an important novel in the Discworld series, as it marks the first appearance of Granny Weatherwax and introduces themes of feminism and gender equality.
The book has been praised for its use of humor and its exploration of serious issues such as sexism and misogyny.
Men at Arms (1993)
Men At Arms was one of Terry Pratchett’s most popular books, originally published in 1993.
It forms part of the Discworld series, which follows the adventures of a variety of characters living on a flat world that is balanced on the back of four elephants standing atop a huge turtle swimming through space.
The book follows Captain Carrot Ironfoundersson, a dwarf who was adopted by Ankh-Morpork’s City Watch, as he works to unravel a mysterious plot that threatens the city.
Along the way, he must enlist the help of his fellow officers Sergeant Colon and Corporal Nobbs, the loveable but misguided troll Detritus, and various other characters from across the Discworld.
Through a combination of gumption, luck and an eye for detail, Carrot is able to uncover the truth and save Ankh-Morpork from danger.
Men at Arms is a hilarious yet heartfelt adventure that celebrates the importance of friendship and teamwork in bringing about justice.
It is also a testament to Terry Pratchett’s talent for crafting intricate plotlines and unforgettable characters.
Wyrd Sisters (1988)
Wyrd Sisters follows three witches, Granny Weatherwax, Nanny Ogg and Magrat Garlick on their quest to protect a kingdom against an evil Duke.
Filled with vivid characters and hilarious moments, this book will keep readers laughing as they discover the secrets of Lancre.
Through this story, Pratchett weaves a magical tale that is sure to be remembered by readers long after they turn the last page.
Pratchett uses wordplay and clever puns to create a world that is both funny and full of adventure.
His characters are witty and full of charisma, drawing readers in with their charm and quick-witted banter. Not only does the story feature witches, kings and villains, but it also includes plenty of jokes about popular culture.
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