Terry Pratchett Day 2024 Image: https://terrypratchett.com/
On April 28, magic, wit, and a bit of the ridiculous come to life in the world of literature. Today is Terry Pratchett Day, a time to honour the genius of Sir Terry Pratchett, who created the acclaimed Discworld books. Let’s get our quills and pointy hats ready and go on an adventure through the magical world of Discworld to honour the author who made us laugh, think, and question nature itself.
“Start in the Wrong Place”
The theme for this year is to embrace the wonderful chaos that is Pratchett’s world. There is no set way to get through Discworld, no right or wrong place to start. No matter how long you’ve lived in Ankh-Morpork or how many times you’ve been to the Ramtops, every door leads to wonder. If we want to do what the Librarian, who is actually an orangutan, says, we should “OOK!” which means “Dive in headfirst, even if it’s into a vat of metaphorical custard.”
How Fun It Is to Find Books by Chance
Imagine finding a wizard’s hat that doesn’t fit right in a dusty corner of Unseen University’s library. Or you might be on the Ankh-Morpork Express and have to share a compartment with luggage that likes to bite ankles. You really did start in the wrong place at these times, but they are the best times.
Tips for starting at the Wrong Place:
- Choose any book: In Discworld, things don’t go in a straight line. Pick up any book—Guards! Guards!, Wyrd Sisters, or The Last Continent—and let the adventure begin.
- Get to Know the Characters: There are so many memorable characters in Discworld, from Rincewind, the stupid wizard, to Granny Weatherwax, the strict witch. You shouldn’t be shy; say hello.
- Accept the ridiculous: If you come across talking luggage or a smart swamp, don’t question it. Nod wisely and go on with your day. We are in Discworld after all.
In honour of Sir Terry Pratchett
Lean back and raise a glass of Nanny Ogg’s special brew to Sir Terry Pratchett as the sun rises over the Disc. Be careful, it might have a newt in it. Literature will never be the same because of his wit, wisdom, and unique ability to mix satire with deep insights.
Friends on the road, happy Terry Pratchett Day! I hope that your path is paved with footnotes and that your laughter can be heard over the rooftops of Ankh-Morpork.
Read more on https://www.terrypratchett.com – it is a wealth of #TerryPratchett and #DiscWorld information!
Also, my review of What I Read: Terry Pratchett: A Life With Footnotes: The Official Biography by Rob Wilkins
