Book Review: The Colour of Magic

"When I think I might die without seeing a hundredth of all there is to see it makes me feel... well, humble, I suppose. And very angry, of course."- Twoflower

1983 brought us Terry Pratchett's "first" Discworld novel (if you don't count 'Strata' which was SORT of the same deal only more sci-fi parody than fantasy parody). Strata was really good, too, actually, and it had more spaceships. Of course, there's an anachronistic spaceship in Krull at the edge of the Discworld, too. Sort of...

Anyway, 'The Colour of Magic' is a hoot and I remain intrigued to read the rest of the series: so thanks a million, bookmonkey!

The tale concerns a flat, magical earth-like world on the back of four elephants on the back of an utterly humongous turtle. The turtle is not on anything- unlike Pratchett.

Oh, I kid! (Seriously, how can the guy be so creative without medicinal aid?)

The spoofs are far-ranging, with emphasis on fantasy quests by the likes of Fritz Leiber and Anne McCaffrey.

Our characters are Rincewind: a wizard whose most effective 'spell' is kicking people in the groin, and Twoflower: a wealthy naif from parts unknown with a flair for photography and an enchanted Luggage devoted enough to pursue him into the very afterlife.

Also: Death, Lady Luck, the unspeakable demon Bel-Shamharoth, Hrun the Barbarian, Liessa of Wyrmberg, and some imaginary dragons. Among an unwashed cast of thousands.

Who started the great fire in the city of Ankh-Morepork? Will Twoflower survive once it becomes widely known that he is rich beyond the dreams of avarice and as helpless as a very tiny kitten? Will Rincewind survive a swordfight he has been forced into by a gung-ho enchanted sword? What terrifying fate is in store for Hrun in Liessa's clutches? What sex is the giant turtle?

These questions and many more can be found within the hilarious pages of this and many other fine DISCWORLD novels! Very recommended.