In "Hogfather" by Terry Pratchett, Death steps in to save the day when the Hogfather, Discworld's version of Santa Claus, goes missing. As Death fills in for the missing holiday figure, chaos ensues, leading to a humorous and quirky adventure that delves into themes of belief, mythology, and the human psyche. The narrative follows Death's efforts to maintain the holiday spirit while his granddaughter, Susan, investigates the situation, resulting in a blend of satire, fantasy, and wit that captures the essence of the Discworld universe.
The book explores the importance of imagination, belief, and the traditions surrounding holidays, offering a satirical take on Christmas while weaving in elements of humor, wisdom, and social commentary. Through a blend of quirky characters, clever storytelling, and imaginative world-building, Pratchett crafts a unique narrative that challenges traditional notions of holiday tales and delves into the complexities of human nature and the power of myth and legend.
Genres:
Tropes/Plot Devices:
Topics:
Notes:
From The Publisher:
It's the most wonderful time of the year, Hogswatchnight, when the Hogfather himself dons his red suit and climbs in his sleigh pulled by-of course-eight hogs, to shower gifts across Discworld. But when the fat man goes missing, someone has to sit in. It's up to Death to take up the reigns-otherwise the sun won't shine tomorrow . . . or ever again.
Who would want to harm Discworld's most beloved icon? Very few things are held sacred in this twisted, corrupt, heartless-and oddly familiar-universe, but the Hogfather is one of them. Yet here it is, Hogswatchnight, that most joyous and acquisitive of times, and the jolly, old, red-suited gift-giver has vanished without a trace. And there's something shady going on involving an uncommonly psychotic member of the Assassins' Guild and certain representatives of Ankh-Morpork's rather extensive criminal element. Suddenly Discworld's entire myth system is unraveling at an alarming rate. Drastic measures must be taken, which is why Death himself is taking up the reins of the fat man's vacated sleigh . . . which, in turn, has Death's level-headed granddaughter, Susan, racing to unravel the nasty, humbuggian mess before the holiday season goes straight to hell and takes everyone along with it.
Ratings (59)
Incredible (21) | |
Loved It (16) | |
Liked It (17) | |
It Was OK (4) | |
Did Not Like (1) |
Reader Stats (74):
Read It (61) | |
Want To Read (7) | |
Not Interested (6) |
1 comment(s)
The fourth book by Terry Pratchett that I read (in no specific order) and it has more or less the same ingredients that make them all very interesting books.
First, a sensible and empathetic protagonist who gets caught up in the main problem (at first not entirely recognizable and which is truly imaginative and unpredictable) in which she embarks on an adventure with hilarious characters and interactions. Also with situations that bring humorous reflections.
Especially in the beginning, but also throughout the work, there are many paragraphs that have ideas and reflections on different topics. Among which includes our society and human nature.
The conversations between magicians are hilarious. Teatime does not disappoint. And Death is one of my favorite characters in general (almost always calm, kind, thoughtful and still trying to understand humans) sometimes taking things very seriously.
On the negative side, I would have to point out that it took me a bit long. And, especially in the beginning, one can get dizzy or frustrated by not understanding stories that feel random when you don't know what they are about.
But, ultimately, a very enjoyable book.
What can you read after
Hogfather?
About the Author:
Terry Pratchett was the acclaimed creator of the global bestselling Discworld series, the first of which, The Colour of Magic, was published in 1983. In all, he was the author of over fifty bestselling books. His novels have been widely adapted for stage and screen, and he was the winner of multiple prizes, including the Carnegie Medal, as well as being awarded a knighthood for services to literature. He died in March 2015. terrypratchettbooks.com
When you click the Amazon link and make a purchase, we may receive a small commision, at no cost to you.
