Going Postal by Terry Pratchett

 

394 pg (Paperback) Fiction

Terry Pratchett is quickly becoming one of my favorite authors. Most of his books are set in the fictional world of Discworld. It is a conglomeration of 18^th century Europe and medieval fantasy books that many of us have grown to love. This is all thrown together with clever writing and a humorous tone to it all. 

Most of the books I have read are centered in the city of Anhk-Morpork. Essentially, this city is the center of the world. Here we meet our hero Moist Von Lipwig. Moist has been “hired” to run the local post office. The post office hasn’t really done work as of late because of a much faster information transfer system known as the Clacks. Moist soon finds himself mired in a fight to see which can better supply the people the post or the clacks. Various stunts and less legal actions work together to make a very entertaining book.

With each book I have read of Pratchett I have grown fonder of his writing. He has a beautiful way of writing that intermixes with humor in a way that is rare. I find myself getting drawn into the books and enjoying them for the lighthearted stories they attempt to be. I think most readers would find his books worthwhile and Going Postal is a good starting place.

3 Intellectual/Emotional – Going Postal’s setting seems thinly veiled as you can see all of its events could be a part of modern life. I came to care for Moist and the other characters and hoped that the post office would come out on top.

5 Readability/Style – Pratchett’s writing is fantastic and although not difficult to read it is immensely pleasurable.

3 Long Term Impact – Many accounts put Going Postal towards the top of Practhett’s best books. I can only see his popularity rising as time passes.

11 out of 13. Looking for a lighthearted book? Wants something that draws you in tells a good tale and makes you laugh? Check this book out. I would also suggest Guards! Guards!, another great book from Pratchett.

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