Cannonball Read Bingo Square: Series
Setting foot inside Terry Pratchett’s Discworld has been a goal of mine, but I have (and continue to feel) intimidated by the undertaking. From my understanding, you can start wherever because although the books are all in the same universe, there aren’t traditional sequels or one linear arc to the story, so they don’t have to be read in a particular order. For some people, that would be freeing, but I find the power of limitless choice overwhelming; I prefer a series that comes with a clear instruction manual.
I decided to stick in my comfort zone and try to start with the book he wrote first, this one. I purchased a paperback version and tried to read it but couldn’t follow along and felt myself skimming as I would get lost in his detailed prose. I had some success with reading it out loud to my husband, but we couldn’t make that happen regularly. And thus, this book has been sitting on my nightstand literally collecting dust and taunting me because dagnabbit Pratchett is a legend and has created an entire galaxy of books.
I was reminded of this literary telltale heart when I heard on the “LeVar Burton Reads” podcast Pratchett’s short story”Troll Bridge,” which is a short story, set in Discworld, wherein a famous barbarian past his prime sets out to kill a bridge troll in hand-to-hand combat. It was positively charming. That interaction had me itching to finally conquer this book, and a summer family road trip provided the opportunity to give the audio a try.
So, what is Discworld? Well, it’s a flat planet balanced on the backs of four elephants which in turn stand on the back of a giant turtle, like you do. The Color of Magic follows the tourist Twoflower and the wizard Rincewald on a madcap adventure. I’m here to say that we made it through the book, and I liked it, but it might not be for me. Pratchett may in fact be too clever for me, my mind wandered throughout, but when I did tune back in, chuckling ensued.
It made for a good family road trip book, the teen gave it vague notice and it really tickled my husband’s funny bone, so points for keeping the driver entertained. I’m not going to give up but will see what’s recommended next and give the audio a chance on my own. Fingers crossed that my fantasy-loving kiddo may find joy in them when he’s a little older and I’ll be able to give myself a pat on the back.