As my introduction to Terry Pratchett’s Discworld, I was impressed. Equal Rites is a fascinating study of witches and wizards, and with plenty of subtle humour. The progression of the main adventure never ceased to amaze me.
Esk is the first female wizard and she desires training in a wizarding academy, but first she is guided by Granny, who is a hardened witch with stares that can scare off animals. There is colour, and there is magic! And there are parallels to be made between Esk’s blatant skills and intelligence against the sometimes incompetent wizards who actually are accepted into wizarding academies.
Yes, this is one to keep on your bookshelf.