Review

Welcome to Discworld, and eccentric, flat world lying on the backs of four elephants standing on the shell of Great A'Tuin, the star table. Ah, and you've arrived just in time for Hogswatchnight - the night the Hogsfather, a jolly old fellow all decked out in red, delivers presents to the nice - or wealthy - of the Disc. This year though, something's not right. Rumors are flying that the Hogsfather has been assassinated and that Death - the Grim Reaper? Him? - has taken up his mantle while Susan Sto Helit - Death's granddaughter - investigates the murder. But there's more at stake here than meets the eye, and if Susan doesn't revive the Hogfather, there will be consequences… Terry Pratchett's fast paced, satisfying novel is just as hilarious as it sounds yet he never sacrifices character for plot and everything flows smoothly. Death is a beautifully written character as a grim reaper who just wants to spread some Hogswatch cheer and rather not kill little match girls on the happiest day of the year. While not the best book for those new to the Disc, Hogsfather is still a fun fantasy romp that is also a wickedly smart satire.
8/08/09