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Discworld #25
The Truth
Terry Pratchett's acclaimed Discworld novels have been number one bestsellers in England for more than a decade. In fact, this prolific author sold more hardcover books in the United Kingdom during the 1900's than any other living novelist. Critically recognized as one of the most celebrated practitioners of satire and parody -- in the company of Kurt Vonnegut, Douglas Adams, and Carl Hiaasen -- Pratchett, with his unique brand of irreverent humor, is at last being embraced across America.
In this, his twenty-fifth Discworld novel, Pratchett turns his pen on, well, the pen. Or, rather, the press, and its power to disseminate and create the truth. The lesser son of one of Ankh most privileged families, William de Worde a struggling scribe, hits on the brilliant idea of producing his upper-crust newsletter with a newfangled printing press.
Truer to the family motto, Le Mot juste, than his disapproving father can ever realize, de Worde soon finds that his Ankh-Morpork Times is a success. So big, in fact, that certain nefarious factions would like nothing better than to put him out of business. They begin their own rival Ankh-Morpork Inquirer--full of salacious bits -- to do just that. Soon, though, de Worde has more than just the competition to fret over. Lord Vetinari, the Patrician of Ankh-Morpork, is accused of a serious crime in a seemingly airtight case. But William de Worde knows that facts aren't always the truth. Along with a much too prim and proper assistant, a roving photographer vampire with a nasty reaction to his flashgun, and a talking dog who holds the key to the mystery, William de Worde will stop at nothing to get the truth.
And that's the truth.
A dead-on look at the revered fifth estate, the nature of news, and bareknuckled political intrigue, The Truth shall make you free. From everything else you'd be doing instead of enjoying it, that is.
In this, his twenty-fifth Discworld novel, Pratchett turns his pen on, well, the pen. Or, rather, the press, and its power to disseminate and create the truth. The lesser son of one of Ankh most privileged families, William de Worde a struggling scribe, hits on the brilliant idea of producing his upper-crust newsletter with a newfangled printing press.
Truer to the family motto, Le Mot juste, than his disapproving father can ever realize, de Worde soon finds that his Ankh-Morpork Times is a success. So big, in fact, that certain nefarious factions would like nothing better than to put him out of business. They begin their own rival Ankh-Morpork Inquirer--full of salacious bits -- to do just that. Soon, though, de Worde has more than just the competition to fret over. Lord Vetinari, the Patrician of Ankh-Morpork, is accused of a serious crime in a seemingly airtight case. But William de Worde knows that facts aren't always the truth. Along with a much too prim and proper assistant, a roving photographer vampire with a nasty reaction to his flashgun, and a talking dog who holds the key to the mystery, William de Worde will stop at nothing to get the truth.
And that's the truth.
A dead-on look at the revered fifth estate, the nature of news, and bareknuckled political intrigue, The Truth shall make you free. From everything else you'd be doing instead of enjoying it, that is.
336 pages, Hardcover
First published January 1, 2000
1543 people are currently reading
12189 people want to read
About the author
Terry Pratchett
680 books46.2k followersSir Terence David John Pratchett was an English author, humorist, and satirist, best known for the Discworld series of 41 comic fantasy novels published between 1983–2015, and for the apocalyptic comedy novel Good Omens (1990), which he co-wrote with Neil Gaiman.
Pratchett's first novel, The Carpet People, was published in 1971. The first Discworld novel, The Colour of Magic, was published in 1983, after which Pratchett wrote an average of two books a year. The final Discworld novel, The Shepherd's Crown, was published in August 2015, five months after his death.
With more than 100 million books sold worldwide in 43 languages, Pratchett was the UK's best-selling author of the 1990s. He was appointed an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in 1998 and was knighted for services to literature in the 2009 New Year Honours. In 2001 he won the annual Carnegie Medal for The Amazing Maurice and His Educated Rodents, the first Discworld book marketed for children. He received the World Fantasy Award for Life Achievement in 2010.
In December 2007 Pratchett announced that he had been diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer's disease. He later made a substantial public donation to the Alzheimer's Research Trust (now Alzheimer's Research UK, ARUK), filmed three television programmes chronicling his experiences with the condition for the BBC, and became a patron of ARUK. Pratchett died on 12 March 2015, at the age of 66.
Pratchett's first novel, The Carpet People, was published in 1971. The first Discworld novel, The Colour of Magic, was published in 1983, after which Pratchett wrote an average of two books a year. The final Discworld novel, The Shepherd's Crown, was published in August 2015, five months after his death.
With more than 100 million books sold worldwide in 43 languages, Pratchett was the UK's best-selling author of the 1990s. He was appointed an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in 1998 and was knighted for services to literature in the 2009 New Year Honours. In 2001 he won the annual Carnegie Medal for The Amazing Maurice and His Educated Rodents, the first Discworld book marketed for children. He received the World Fantasy Award for Life Achievement in 2010.
In December 2007 Pratchett announced that he had been diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer's disease. He later made a substantial public donation to the Alzheimer's Research Trust (now Alzheimer's Research UK, ARUK), filmed three television programmes chronicling his experiences with the condition for the BBC, and became a patron of ARUK. Pratchett died on 12 March 2015, at the age of 66.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,532 reviews
August 12, 2024
2024 reread
Probably one of my favourite Discworld. The new characters are great, including the villains and we get to enjoy the Patrician and Vimes.
The social commentary is still very accurate and the story is very interesting and well paced.
Loved it, again.
Probably one of my favourite Discworld. The new characters are great, including the villains and we get to enjoy the Patrician and Vimes.
The social commentary is still very accurate and the story is very interesting and well paced.
Loved it, again.
August 26, 2025
A lie can run round the world before the truth has got its boots on.
William de Worde brings the Truth to the public with the Ankh-Morpork Times, reporting public interest as well as human interest stories with the same journalistic integrity, firmly trying to avoid all prejudices and wondering how he slipped into this job - especially when there's a conspiracy against the patrician Lord Vetinari, and the Times assists in the Watch's enquiries.
The Ankh-Morpork Times: The Truth Shall Make Ye Fret
Terry Pratchett masterfully weaves sharp satire and outright wordplay together, on the foundation of his amazing world-building that continues throughout the Discworld series, to show the importance of the freedom of press in politics and prove journalism and policing can work for justice side by side, though not exactly on the same side. Written with humour and simplicity that makes it enduring to this day. The inherent conflict in William's character and his relationship with the truth is mirrored by the Times' race for survival, and the numerous side characters as well as some old favorites make the book all the more enjoyable!
“Are you sure of all this, William?” she said.
“Yes.”
“I mean, some bits—are you sure it’s all true?”
“I’m sure it’s all journalism,” said William.
“And what is that supposed to mean?”
“It means it’s true enough for now.”
🌟🌟🌟🌟1/2
[One star for the premise and the whole book; One star for the world-building; One star for the writing; 3/4 star for the story arc and themes; 3/4 star for the characters - 4 1/2 stars in total.]
William de Worde brings the Truth to the public with the Ankh-Morpork Times, reporting public interest as well as human interest stories with the same journalistic integrity, firmly trying to avoid all prejudices and wondering how he slipped into this job - especially when there's a conspiracy against the patrician Lord Vetinari, and the Times assists in the Watch's enquiries.
The Ankh-Morpork Times: The Truth Shall Make Ye Fret
Terry Pratchett masterfully weaves sharp satire and outright wordplay together, on the foundation of his amazing world-building that continues throughout the Discworld series, to show the importance of the freedom of press in politics and prove journalism and policing can work for justice side by side, though not exactly on the same side. Written with humour and simplicity that makes it enduring to this day. The inherent conflict in William's character and his relationship with the truth is mirrored by the Times' race for survival, and the numerous side characters as well as some old favorites make the book all the more enjoyable!
“Are you sure of all this, William?” she said.
“Yes.”
“I mean, some bits—are you sure it’s all true?”
“I’m sure it’s all journalism,” said William.
“And what is that supposed to mean?”
“It means it’s true enough for now.”
🌟🌟🌟🌟1/2
[One star for the premise and the whole book; One star for the world-building; One star for the writing; 3/4 star for the story arc and themes; 3/4 star for the characters - 4 1/2 stars in total.]
January 20, 2022
Terry Pratchett makes great use of his experience of the world of newspapers in this entertaining Discworld novel, another reread for me, in which he hilariously skewers the 4th Estate and its oft dubious relationship with the truth and its audience, the public, and what they want to read about. William de Worde has decided not to follow in his aristocratic family's footsteps, choosing instead to write a newsletter for the movers and shakers, but everything changes with the revolutionary printing press, leading to the birth of the Ankh-Morpork Times. Soon William, intent on publishing the truth, is employing people, such as Sacharissa Cripslock, a woman reporter, and Otto, the vampire. William find obstacles and trouble heading his way, there is a plot against Lord Ventinari, a competitor in the form of The Inquirer, included are a wonderful set of new characters, such as Pin and Tulip. So much fun to immerse myself in this again. Thanks to the publisher.
December 23, 2024
“The Truth will make you fret”
Journalism on the Discworld.
Over the years I’ve read many Goodreaders ask what happened to their review or declare that comments have been dropped. I’ve written hundreds of reviews, over a thousand, and this is the first time I’ve ran into this. While looking at books to re-read this summer as a part of my Pratchettapalooza reading festival I came across a book that, according to my favorite social media site, I’d not read. I was pretty sure I had read them all.
And of course I had, this was a fun re-visit to Sir Terry’s 25th Discworld book, something of a standalone but in the Industrial Revolution sub-canon.
William de Worde had sent a periodical newsletter to influential people all over the Discworld for some time, employing wood engravers to set the words to paper. But when industrious movable type setter dwarf Goodmountain and crew provide an inexpensive and efficient way to mass produce the letter on a daily basis, the Ankh-Morpork Times is born.
Getting Foul Ole Ron and his friends to deliver the paper was typical Pratchett genius.
We get to see CMOT Dibbler, Lord Vetinari, Commander Vimes, Corporal Nobbs, Angua von Überwald, and many other players but the two who stole the show were Mr. Pin and Mr. Tulip, a couple of tough guys who create the conflict in the story.
Pin is a short, fast talking foxy character while Tulip is a brawny monster who kills. This pairing of little guy / big guy toughs is a frequent device in literature and it was fun to see how Pratchett employs the concept.
Pratchett explores the complicated idea of truth, journalistic integrity, propaganda, and the strange tendency of people to blindly believe anything printed in black and white.
Good fun.
*** 2024 reread -
Funny, but also one of his darker novels, this one deals with some heady philosophical and theological questions.
While this is mainly about the Ankh-Morpork Times and the Discworld exploration of free speech, the most fascinating characters are Mr. Pin and Mr. Tulip, two criminals who may be the most villainous that Pratchett ever wrote. These guys are truly bad and while Pratchett's satirical, comedic genius softens the blow somewhat, it is still somewhat out of character for him to draw players this openly diabolical.
We also see some unique conversations with Death and we hear Vetinari's typically spot on assessment of free speech.
Highly recommended for a Pratchett fan, this may not be the best introduction of a new reader, this is Pratchett 401.
Journalism on the Discworld.
Over the years I’ve read many Goodreaders ask what happened to their review or declare that comments have been dropped. I’ve written hundreds of reviews, over a thousand, and this is the first time I’ve ran into this. While looking at books to re-read this summer as a part of my Pratchettapalooza reading festival I came across a book that, according to my favorite social media site, I’d not read. I was pretty sure I had read them all.
And of course I had, this was a fun re-visit to Sir Terry’s 25th Discworld book, something of a standalone but in the Industrial Revolution sub-canon.
William de Worde had sent a periodical newsletter to influential people all over the Discworld for some time, employing wood engravers to set the words to paper. But when industrious movable type setter dwarf Goodmountain and crew provide an inexpensive and efficient way to mass produce the letter on a daily basis, the Ankh-Morpork Times is born.
Getting Foul Ole Ron and his friends to deliver the paper was typical Pratchett genius.
We get to see CMOT Dibbler, Lord Vetinari, Commander Vimes, Corporal Nobbs, Angua von Überwald, and many other players but the two who stole the show were Mr. Pin and Mr. Tulip, a couple of tough guys who create the conflict in the story.
Pin is a short, fast talking foxy character while Tulip is a brawny monster who kills. This pairing of little guy / big guy toughs is a frequent device in literature and it was fun to see how Pratchett employs the concept.
Pratchett explores the complicated idea of truth, journalistic integrity, propaganda, and the strange tendency of people to blindly believe anything printed in black and white.
Good fun.
*** 2024 reread -
Funny, but also one of his darker novels, this one deals with some heady philosophical and theological questions.
While this is mainly about the Ankh-Morpork Times and the Discworld exploration of free speech, the most fascinating characters are Mr. Pin and Mr. Tulip, two criminals who may be the most villainous that Pratchett ever wrote. These guys are truly bad and while Pratchett's satirical, comedic genius softens the blow somewhat, it is still somewhat out of character for him to draw players this openly diabolical.
We also see some unique conversations with Death and we hear Vetinari's typically spot on assessment of free speech.
Highly recommended for a Pratchett fan, this may not be the best introduction of a new reader, this is Pratchett 401.
June 2, 2021
Amusingly about a nobel profession of news reporter. Pratchett managed to turn a difficult topics of politics and media and how the one is impossible without the other into a hilarious story with an intriguing plot and amazing characters. So the book written 20 years ago is still surprisingly relatable.
March 28, 2014
"The truth shall make ye free fret"
Despite their fear of that newfangled movable type, Ankh-Morpork has FINALLY gotten a newspaper!
Young William de Worde is quite surprised when his page full of "things written down" is suddenly incredibly popular with the citizenry, and publishing a newspaper becomes a rather terrifying, learn-as-you-go experience. Should he listen to the advice of others or go with his gut?
"Be careful. People like to be told what they already know. Remember that. They get uncomfortable when you tell them new things. New things...well, new things aren't what they expect. They like to know that, say, a dog will bite a man. That is what dogs do. They don't want to know that a man bites a dog because the world is not supposed to happen like that. In short, what people think they want is news, but what they really crave is olds."
One thing William discovers early on is that people LIKE seeing their names (and ages, for some reason) in the paper, and soon he is overwhelmed with potential "news" items like which was the coldest winter ever and vegetables that resemble body parts.
Before long, he's got some competition in the form of THE INQUIRER, a tabloid that features headlines like Elves Stole My Husband . This inexplicably popular, lying fish-wrapper may even put HIS little paper out of business.
And then there's that matter of William and his staff "helping" the Watch solve a mystery involving Lord Vetinari...
We meet some great new characters in this book, including Harry King, a combination night soil man/recycling czar, and Otto, a vampire who's trying REALLY HARD NOT to be such a bloodsucker.
This is a terrifically funny outing. One of my favorite moments was when the search for a missing dog leads to aparking garage horse stable encounter with an informant named Deep Bone. And this priceless story from The Ankh-Morpork Times:
A miscreant stole $200 worth of silver from H. Hogland and Son, Jewllrs., of Nonesuch Street yesterday p.m. Mr. Hogland, (32) who was threatened at knifepoint, told the Times: "I shall recognize the man if I should see him again because not many people have a stocking on their head."
Remember - A lie can run around the world before the truth has got it's boots on.
Despite their fear of that newfangled movable type, Ankh-Morpork has FINALLY gotten a newspaper!
Young William de Worde is quite surprised when his page full of "things written down" is suddenly incredibly popular with the citizenry, and publishing a newspaper becomes a rather terrifying, learn-as-you-go experience. Should he listen to the advice of others or go with his gut?
"Be careful. People like to be told what they already know. Remember that. They get uncomfortable when you tell them new things. New things...well, new things aren't what they expect. They like to know that, say, a dog will bite a man. That is what dogs do. They don't want to know that a man bites a dog because the world is not supposed to happen like that. In short, what people think they want is news, but what they really crave is olds."
One thing William discovers early on is that people LIKE seeing their names (and ages, for some reason) in the paper, and soon he is overwhelmed with potential "news" items like which was the coldest winter ever and vegetables that resemble body parts.
Before long, he's got some competition in the form of THE INQUIRER, a tabloid that features headlines like Elves Stole My Husband . This inexplicably popular, lying fish-wrapper may even put HIS little paper out of business.
And then there's that matter of William and his staff "helping" the Watch solve a mystery involving Lord Vetinari...
We meet some great new characters in this book, including Harry King, a combination night soil man/recycling czar, and Otto, a vampire who's trying REALLY HARD NOT to be such a bloodsucker.
This is a terrifically funny outing. One of my favorite moments was when the search for a missing dog leads to a
A miscreant stole $200 worth of silver from H. Hogland and Son, Jewllrs., of Nonesuch Street yesterday p.m. Mr. Hogland, (32) who was threatened at knifepoint, told the Times: "I shall recognize the man if I should see him again because not many people have a stocking on their head."
Remember - A lie can run around the world before the truth has got it's boots on.
July 21, 2018
Истината рядко е чиста и никога проста, ще ви каже Оскар Уайлд. Според Джейн Остин пък е общоизвестна истина, че всеки богат млад мъж трябва да си вземе съпруга. Мълдър и Скъли от своя страна винаги са били убедени, че истината е някъде там. Всъщност истината е изменчива и ковка сплав, която всеки си я наглася както му дойде.
„Светът се състои от четири елемента — Земя, Въздух, Огън и Вода... Има и пети елемент, обикновено го наричат Изненада.“ Всичко тръгва от там как един наследник на рода дьо Слов изненадва аристократичното си и снобарско семейство с това, че всъщност не им иска парите и се занимава с нещо. Изненадва и самия себе си, защото някъде сред монотонното запълване на писма с „новини“ открива, че всъщност истината е добила особено значение за него. Разбира се, преди това джуджетата са изненадали всички останали, защото са изнамерили философския камък на публицистиката, или как да превърнат оловото в злато (казано с две думи — изобретили са печатарската преса). Така започва надбягването на заека и костенурката, в ролите: лъжата и истината.
Има три породи хора – 1/ такива, които вършат изгодни за себе си неща, като понятията „правилно“ и „грешно“ за тях са абстракции, служещи да запълнят място в речника; 2/ хора, които правят каквото трябва, защото така е редно; 3/ онези, на които като цяло не им пука. Първите две породи са в непрестанно противоборство ('щото в света нали трябва да има баланс, пък и как ще разберем кое е бяло, ако го няма черното), а третата обича да разглежда смешни зеленчуци (незнайно защо). Тери Пратчет полекичка стъпва върху тънкия лед на политическата сатира и човешкия стремеж към повече – повече власт, повече подчинение, повече „…ани“ пари. А, и на още един напълно човешки порив, чийто горди откриватели са хомо сапиенсите – да преметнеш де що има човек по пътя си. В крайна сметка доброто и злото винаги са били въпрос на гледна точка. Открай време има нужда от управници, които трябва да се вслушват в хората – въпросът е само в кои точно хора. В тези с привилегии ли? Но нали „привилегията означава „закон за частно ползване“? Както би възкликнал ССПГ Диблър: „Нищото го продавам като нищо друго на света!“. Така и на нас отгоре ни продават нищо и то възсоленко. А дали вятърът на промяната няма да забрули по-силно и да довее различен полъх?
Мъчна работа си е търсенето на истината. Понякога и като я откриеш никак не е лесно. Защото следва да решиш какво да я правиш. Това означава отговорност. Хората не обичат отговорностите. Те обичат да се носят по течението. Да не мислят. Да не се натъкват на подводни камъни. Обичат да си казват „това мен не ме засяга, който иска, да се прави на герой“. А герои има. Изкушавам се да мисля, че у всеки от нас дреме по един. Хубаво е понякога му помогаме да си обуе ботушите.
„Светът се състои от четири елемента — Земя, Въздух, Огън и Вода... Има и пети елемент, обикновено го наричат Изненада.“ Всичко тръгва от там как един наследник на рода дьо Слов изненадва аристократичното си и снобарско семейство с това, че всъщност не им иска парите и се занимава с нещо. Изненадва и самия себе си, защото някъде сред монотонното запълване на писма с „новини“ открива, че всъщност истината е добила особено значение за него. Разбира се, преди това джуджетата са изненадали всички останали, защото са изнамерили философския камък на публицистиката, или как да превърнат оловото в злато (казано с две думи — изобретили са печатарската преса). Така започва надбягването на заека и костенурката, в ролите: лъжата и истината.
Има три породи хора – 1/ такива, които вършат изгодни за себе си неща, като понятията „правилно“ и „грешно“ за тях са абстракции, служещи да запълнят място в речника; 2/ хора, които правят каквото трябва, защото така е редно; 3/ онези, на които като цяло не им пука. Първите две породи са в непрестанно противоборство ('щото в света нали трябва да има баланс, пък и как ще разберем кое е бяло, ако го няма черното), а третата обича да разглежда смешни зеленчуци (незнайно защо). Тери Пратчет полекичка стъпва върху тънкия лед на политическата сатира и човешкия стремеж към повече – повече власт, повече подчинение, повече „…ани“ пари. А, и на още един напълно човешки порив, чийто горди откриватели са хомо сапиенсите – да преметнеш де що има човек по пътя си. В крайна сметка доброто и злото винаги са били въпрос на гледна точка. Открай време има нужда от управници, които трябва да се вслушват в хората – въпросът е само в кои точно хора. В тези с привилегии ли? Но нали „привилегията означава „закон за частно ползване“? Както би възкликнал ССПГ Диблър: „Нищото го продавам като нищо друго на света!“. Така и на нас отгоре ни продават нищо и то възсоленко. А дали вятърът на промяната няма да забрули по-силно и да довее различен полъх?
Мъчна работа си е търсенето на истината. Понякога и като я откриеш никак не е лесно. Защото следва да решиш какво да я правиш. Това означава отговорност. Хората не обичат отговорностите. Те обичат да се носят по течението. Да не мислят. Да не се натъкват на подводни камъни. Обичат да си казват „това мен не ме засяга, който иска, да се прави на герой“. А герои има. Изкушавам се да мисля, че у всеки от нас дреме по един. Хубаво е понякога му помогаме да си обуе ботушите.
January 19, 2023
William de Worde has never really considered that his monthly newsletters would garner much interest outside his regular patrons (mainly foreign political figures), yet when he starts publishing on a daily basis in Ankh-Morpork he gets the surprise of his life.
Unfortunately, all his new-fangled fame comes with several perils: the envy of his competitors, people's preference of reading about "olds" rather than "news", the ire of the City Watch, as well as the occasional assassination attempt. Nevertheless, our young hero is determined to publish The Truth regardless of obstacles.
Back when I had first decided on a Discworld series re-read, The Truth had not actually been included in the endeavor. A standalone novel, intent on rehashing the old "don't believe everything you read in the press" cliché had not sounded all that appealing, plus I had been rather bored the first time I've read it.
After listening to an excerpt of the audiobook, I decided to purchase it in hopes of helping with the occasional sleepless night. For some reason, posh English narration puts me to sleep almost instantly. Plus I had a few Audible credits to spare... Well, it definitely helped with my insomnia, but it also made me reconsider my initial opinion of the book.
It may sound completely counter-intuitive to say that an audiobook can simultaneously put me to sleep AND hold my interest, but then that's just how I roll. If you give me a badly narrated book, I will toss and turn until tomorrow just raging about its many inadequacies, but a good British narrator can knock me out in no time. This is also the main reason it took me over a year to finish listening. I've had to constantly rewind it, plus I couldn't use up my best sleeping aid willy-nilly.
I loved the voice-acting, the many humorous quips, and (most of) the characters. Gaspode the Wonder Dog and his mafia-boss impressions were priceless. In contrast though, William de Worde was just too... pathetically predictable. Perhaps this was intentional, but for me it's the first time I actively dislike the main character from a Discworld novel.
Score: 4/5 stars
A surprisingly entertaining and well narrated story, that made a huge difference on reread. I probably read it too early in life, before... or perhaps I just tuned it all out the first time around.
Unfortunately, all his new-fangled fame comes with several perils: the envy of his competitors, people's preference of reading about "olds" rather than "news", the ire of the City Watch, as well as the occasional assassination attempt. Nevertheless, our young hero is determined to publish The Truth regardless of obstacles.
Back when I had first decided on a Discworld series re-read, The Truth had not actually been included in the endeavor. A standalone novel, intent on rehashing the old "don't believe everything you read in the press" cliché had not sounded all that appealing, plus I had been rather bored the first time I've read it.
After listening to an excerpt of the audiobook, I decided to purchase it in hopes of helping with the occasional sleepless night. For some reason, posh English narration puts me to sleep almost instantly. Plus I had a few Audible credits to spare... Well, it definitely helped with my insomnia, but it also made me reconsider my initial opinion of the book.
It may sound completely counter-intuitive to say that an audiobook can simultaneously put me to sleep AND hold my interest, but then that's just how I roll. If you give me a badly narrated book, I will toss and turn until tomorrow just raging about its many inadequacies, but a good British narrator can knock me out in no time. This is also the main reason it took me over a year to finish listening. I've had to constantly rewind it, plus I couldn't use up my best sleeping aid willy-nilly.
I loved the voice-acting, the many humorous quips, and (most of) the characters. Gaspode the Wonder Dog and his mafia-boss impressions were priceless. In contrast though, William de Worde was just too... pathetically predictable. Perhaps this was intentional, but for me it's the first time I actively dislike the main character from a Discworld novel.
The dwarfs can turn lead into gold...
It reached the pointy ears of the dwarfs.
"Can we?"
"Damned if I know. I can't."
"Yeah, but if you could, you wouldn't say. I wouldn't say, if I could."
"Can you?"
"No!"
"Ah-ha!"
A couple of months ago someone had tried to hand William the old story about there being a dog in the city that could talk. (...) The dog in front of William didn't look as if it could talk, but it DID look as if it would swear.
Score: 4/5 stars
A surprisingly entertaining and well narrated story, that made a huge difference on reread. I probably read it too early in life, before... or perhaps I just tuned it all out the first time around.
November 17, 2024
Six stars! I think this was the best Discworld novel yet (in publication order). Taking place entirely in Ankh-Morpork and intersecting with the Watch sub-series, technically this is part of the "Industrial Revolution" subseries (NB: none of these sub-series designations were made by Pratchett or his publishers) and though it lightly references some of the worst prior Discworld novels which happened to fall in that line (Moving Pictures in particular), it represents a new wave of peak Discworld.
The Truth introduces newspapers to Ankh-Morpork.
If in recent memory you have sent or received an email that begins with "Fwd: Fwd: Fwd: Fwd: Fwd:" you might remember newspapers. Think of them like a non-fiction book rolled out really thin. It's what past generations used to ignore each other at the breakfast table before the advent of smartphones. Ask a grandparent about them.
This, the 25th Discworld book, is a perfect entry point for new Disc-curious readers. It is largely self-contained, with brilliant brand new characters in one-time starring roles. It explores themes of truthiness, public opinion, justice, the role of the media and how it interacts with government and law enforcement, and racial prejudice. It gives us the Disc's best vampire character to date (NB: not shiny). I don't know that I can pin down quite what makes it the best series book to date, other than its fabulous pacing, interaction of characters new and old, and topical material.
One passage in particular has stuck with me during the twenty-some years since I last read it. In this scene, several wealthy and powerful Ankh-Morpork guild leaders, led by zombie lawyer Mr. Slant, confront the main character, William de Worde, with the intent of shutting down his newspaper. This takes place in his press room, where the dwarf Mr. Goodmountain can assemble type as quickly as one can speak:
The Truth introduces newspapers to Ankh-Morpork.
If in recent memory you have sent or received an email that begins with "Fwd: Fwd: Fwd: Fwd: Fwd:" you might remember newspapers. Think of them like a non-fiction book rolled out really thin. It's what past generations used to ignore each other at the breakfast table before the advent of smartphones. Ask a grandparent about them.
This, the 25th Discworld book, is a perfect entry point for new Disc-curious readers. It is largely self-contained, with brilliant brand new characters in one-time starring roles. It explores themes of truthiness, public opinion, justice, the role of the media and how it interacts with government and law enforcement, and racial prejudice. It gives us the Disc's best vampire character to date (NB: not shiny). I don't know that I can pin down quite what makes it the best series book to date, other than its fabulous pacing, interaction of characters new and old, and topical material.
One passage in particular has stuck with me during the twenty-some years since I last read it. In this scene, several wealthy and powerful Ankh-Morpork guild leaders, led by zombie lawyer Mr. Slant, confront the main character, William de Worde, with the intent of shutting down his newspaper. This takes place in his press room, where the dwarf Mr. Goodmountain can assemble type as quickly as one can speak:
"Then who is running the city?" he said.I don't know if this has the same impact out of the blue, but I have been enduringly tickled by the prospect of live-printing a conversation in this manner as a weapon. Call it proto-live tweeting.
"I don't know know," said Mr. Slant. "That is not my concern. I—"
"Mr. Goodmountain?" said William. "Large type, please".
"Got you," said the dwarf. His hand hovered over a fresh case.
"In caps, size to fit, 'Who Runs Ankh-Morpork?'" said William. "Now into body type, upper and lowercase, across two columns: 'Who is governing the city while Lord Vetinari is imprisoned? Asked for an opinion today, a leading legal figure said he did not know and it was no concern of his. Mr. Slant of the Lawyers' Guild went on to say—'"
"You can't put that in your newspaper!" barked Slant.
"Set that directly, please, Mr. Goodmountain."
[. . .]
"Mr. Slant went on to say . . .?" said William, glaring at the lawyer.
"You will find it very hard to print that," said Mr. Carney, ignoring the lawyer's frantic hand signals, "with no damn press!"
"'. . . was the view of Mr. Carney of the Guild of Engravers,' spelled with an e before the y," said William, "'who earlier today tried to put the Times out of business by means of an illegal document.'" William realized that, although his mouth felt full of acid, he was enjoying this immensely. "Asked for his opinion of this flagrant abuse of the city laws, Mr. Slant said . . .'?"
"STOP TAKING DOWN EVERYTHING WE SAY!" yelled Slant.
March 25, 2024
+1 до улюблених книг!
«брехня може перетнути світ швидше, ніж правда взує одну ногу»
Вже другий рік я подорожую Дискосвітом 🧙🏻
Швидкий екскурс: Пратчетт написав ~40 книг в циклі, який складається з 6 підциклів та 6 позациклових романів 👀
Є багато різних варіантів знайомства з автором (гугл або моє відео на ютуб вам у допомогу) 🙌🏻
Проте {на мою субʼєктивну думку} читання «Правди» - це один із найкращих способів познайомитися з творчістю Террі Пратчетта ✨
Позациклова фентезійна історія (з нотками детективу) про те, як в Анк-Морпорку зʼявляється преса та зароджується журналістика 📰
Правда - це:
• дотепний класний гумор (легка посмішка не буде сходити з вашого обличчя)
• політика
• питання дискримінації
• посилання на американську (Вотерґейтський скандал) та англійську культуру/історію
• гноми, тролі, зомбі, перевертні, ельфи, вампіри, штучні люди по типу «франкенштайн» тощо
• класний адаптований переклад, мля
• купа приміток автора та перекладача
• і {як в будь-якій книжці про Дискосвіт} - відсутність розділів
Мій краш - це іконографіст, вампір на імʼя Отто 🧛🏻♂️
І памʼятайте: «брехня може перетнути світ швидше, ніж правда взує одну ногу»
«брехня може перетнути світ швидше, ніж правда взує одну ногу»
Вже другий рік я подорожую Дискосвітом 🧙🏻
Швидкий екскурс: Пратчетт написав ~40 книг в циклі, який складається з 6 підциклів та 6 позациклових романів 👀
Є багато різних варіантів знайомства з автором (гугл або моє відео на ютуб вам у допомогу) 🙌🏻
Проте {на мою субʼєктивну думку} читання «Правди» - це один із найкращих способів познайомитися з творчістю Террі Пратчетта ✨
Позациклова фентезійна історія (з нотками детективу) про те, як в Анк-Морпорку зʼявляється преса та зароджується журналістика 📰
Правда - це:
• дотепний класний гумор (легка посмішка не буде сходити з вашого обличчя)
• політика
• питання дискримінації
• посилання на американську (Вотерґейтський скандал) та англійську культуру/історію
• гноми, тролі, зомбі, перевертні, ельфи, вампіри, штучні люди по типу «франкенштайн» тощо
• класний адаптований переклад, мля
• купа приміток автора та перекладача
• і {як в будь-якій книжці про Дискосвіт} - відсутність розділів
Мій краш - це іконографіст, вампір на імʼя Отто 🧛🏻♂️
І памʼятайте: «брехня може перетнути світ швидше, ніж правда взує одну ногу»
May 6, 2020
Перше знайомство з Пратчеттом виявилось дуже вдалим!
November 5, 2014
I have a favorable bias toward the story of someone stumbling into the business of printed news. This story isn't exactly analogous to my own. I decided to start a magazine when the concept of magazines already existed. William de Worde managed to invent the newspaper without even trying. Terry Pratchett does a wonderful job of showing the form evolve in fast-motion.
He also gives ample stage time here to two of my favorite Discworld characters: Lord Vetinari and Commander Vimes. And of course, as always, he manages to make every page humorous without making light of serious issues (which he grapples with on, well, pretty much every page).
This was also terrific read-aloud fare thanks to the character of Mr. Tulip, who swears a lot. Sort of. Specifically, he says, "--ing" all the time. Pratchett makes it clear that he isn't doing the old-fashioned removal of profanity with a dash left behind to show where the bad word was; his character's dialogue is self-cleaning, which leaves a lot of the other characters mystified. It's a lot of fun to read Tulip's dialogue aloud with a solid working-class British accent and lean on that dash before pronouncing the "ing" part. Seriously. Try it. It sounds fantastic.
In fact, I might just use this as a replacement habit to give up swearing, since my son's been begging me to. Kind of a nicotine patch for potty-mouths.
Anyway. Pratchett is such a skilled writer that you can jump into the Discworld books anywhere and enjoy them just fine, but I think this one is even better than usual in that regard. If you haven't read him before, this novel is a great place to start. If you have read him and haven't read The Truth yet, what on earth are you --ing waiting for?
He also gives ample stage time here to two of my favorite Discworld characters: Lord Vetinari and Commander Vimes. And of course, as always, he manages to make every page humorous without making light of serious issues (which he grapples with on, well, pretty much every page).
This was also terrific read-aloud fare thanks to the character of Mr. Tulip, who swears a lot. Sort of. Specifically, he says, "--ing" all the time. Pratchett makes it clear that he isn't doing the old-fashioned removal of profanity with a dash left behind to show where the bad word was; his character's dialogue is self-cleaning, which leaves a lot of the other characters mystified. It's a lot of fun to read Tulip's dialogue aloud with a solid working-class British accent and lean on that dash before pronouncing the "ing" part. Seriously. Try it. It sounds fantastic.
In fact, I might just use this as a replacement habit to give up swearing, since my son's been begging me to. Kind of a nicotine patch for potty-mouths.
Anyway. Pratchett is such a skilled writer that you can jump into the Discworld books anywhere and enjoy them just fine, but I think this one is even better than usual in that regard. If you haven't read him before, this novel is a great place to start. If you have read him and haven't read The Truth yet, what on earth are you --ing waiting for?
July 22, 2025
У моєму виданні 2017 року трохи не та кількість сторінок і немає схеми з книжками на форзаці.
Скільки разів не перечитую, а «Правда» все лишається однією з улюблених дискосвітних історій. Комфортна книжка для некомфортних днів.
Скільки разів не перечитую, а «Правда» все лишається однією з улюблених дискосвітних історій. Комфортна книжка для некомфортних днів.
May 5, 2025
Sir Terry worked for years as a journalist and that experience informs this book about the news business in Ankh Morpork.
I am a fan of the series but this is one of my favorites.
I am a fan of the series but this is one of my favorites.
December 22, 2017
Дуже сподобалися:
-Пратчеттівський гумор;
-герої (улюблений - балакучий пес Гаспид);
-український пе��еклад із мільйонами прихованих цитувань, стилями, суржом, і мегакреативом;
-бо про ЗМІ. Як людина, яка працювала в газеті, регочучи підтверджую, так воно і є. І взагалі першокурсникам журфаку обов'язкове до прочитання.
Щоправда за ритмом текст не мій, тому, мабуть, так довго читався. Задинамічний, як на мене, але це вже дуже суб'єктивне.
Але буду читати ще Пратчетта обов'язково!
-Пратчеттівський гумор;
-герої (улюблений - балакучий пес Гаспид);
-український пе��еклад із мільйонами прихованих цитувань, стилями, суржом, і мегакреативом;
-бо про ЗМІ. Як людина, яка працювала в газеті, регочучи підтверджую, так воно і є. І взагалі першокурсникам журфаку обов'язкове до прочитання.
Щоправда за ритмом текст не мій, тому, мабуть, так довго читався. Задинамічний, як на мене, але це вже дуже суб'єктивне.
Але буду читати ще Пратчетта обов'язково!
December 30, 2020
уже з анотації ясно було, що ця книжка зрезонує з моїми відчуттями від поточної роботи (і від попередньої, мабуть, теж). ох, як же ж я правильно подумала. і те, що ми намагаємося робити, і те, що намагаються робити ті хлопці зліва, і вагон ентропії, з яким доводиться розгрібатися по дорозі, – воно чудове й рідне. аж дивно, що пратчетт ніколи не працював у католицьких медіях, хоча, думаю, воно скрізь приблизно однакове: зоопарк, бестіарій, віварій і лупанарій в одному флаконі.
ще третину задоволення становить український переклад. і дуже втішно, що нарешті можна отаке сказати.
ще третину задоволення становить український переклад. і дуже втішно, що нарешті можна отаке сказати.
October 12, 2022
Even better on re-read. One of my absolute favorites.
April 14, 2025
“A civilization runs on words, Your Reverence. Civilization is words. Which, on the whole, should not be too expensive. The world turns, Your Reverence, and we must spin with it.”
Discworld started out as a fantasy world with a medieval flavour. A flat Earth floating through space on the back of the giant turtle A’Tuin. However, over the course of more than forty novels, the winds of change blow over the world and over its capital city, Ankh-Morpork, bringing about new fashions and new inventions, like moving pictures, banks, trains and ‘clacks’ than can relay messages across vast distances.
Some people embrace the change, other bemoan the passing of the good old times, just as in our own spherical world. Some people, like the Patrician, try to steer the ship of state through these turbulent times. Others, like the young scion of a noble family named William de Worde, need to be trampled over by a runaway cart in order to hammer a new idea into their heads.
“The Truth Shall Make Ye Fret?”
The cart that hits young William is carrying the first printing press made of moving metal bits into Ankh-Morpork, just invented by the dwarves coming to the city to turn lead into gold [in the true way, the way that makes you sweat and toil at your task].
Together, William and the dwarves publish the ‘The Ankh-Morpork Times’, ushering in a new episode of the Industrial Revolution on Discworld. The birth of the fourth estate will make a lot of people ‘fret’ before they correct the spelling to ‘free’, giving us, the readers, one of the funniest adventures in the whole series while on the sidelines we get to debate the nature of truth, of the public as consumers of news and of power hungry little tyrants who dream of hitching this powerful force to their chariots.
Of course, the truth hid in some unlikely places and had some strange handmaidens.
“Let’s go to press,” he said.
>>><<<>>><<<
“Ah, you’re visitors to our fair city?” said the thief. “Then this is your lucky day, sir and ... sir. A theft of twenty-five dollars entitles you to immunity from further street theft for a period of full six months plus, for this week only, the choice of this handsome box of crystal wine glasses or a useful set of barbecue tools, which will be the envy of your friends.”
If you are a new reader for the series, don’t fret, Ankh-Morpork welcomes anyone, as long as they carry some form of currency on their person. Once you get past the Assassin’s Guild, you might attract the attention of the City Guards or of the wizards of Unseen University before stopping to try one of the sausages-inna-bun from Cut-Me-Own-Throat-Dibbler. You might want to steer clear of Foul Ole Ron and his merry band of homeless vagabonds.
William de Worde meets just about everybody who is somebody in Ankh-Morpork as he roams the city streets in search of stories worthy to be included in his new publication, from lord Vetinari and Captain Vimes all the way down to the stinking places favoured by Foul Ole Ron and his gang. Pretty soon, de Worde will need assistance with the news, which comes in the form of a very personable and proper young lady named Sacharissa Cripslock, and of a young vampire iconographer from Uberwald named Otto, who has sworn a blood-temperance oath yet has a morbid fascination with intense light sources and with its opposite, called ‘darklight’.
“Zer philosopher Heidehollen tells us zat the universe is just a cold soup of time, all time mixed up together, and vot we call zer passage of time is merely qvantum fluctuations in zer fabric of space-time.”
“You have very long winter evenings in Uberwald, don’t you”
It’s hard for me to pick a winner in this terrific ensemble piece that features guest appearances from so many old friends in Ankh-Morpork. The newcomers hold their own well, from the earnest William to the pragmatic Cassandra and scientific-minded Otto. I must make a special award somehow for Gaspode, the talking dog, who becomes here a source of information about government conspiracies known as ‘Deep Bone’.
>>><<<>><<<
Make Ankh-Morpork Great Again
The novel was published in 2000, many years before the terms ‘post-truth’ and ‘stochastic terrorism’ became common coinage. Yet such is the predictive talent of the best science-fiction authors to notice current trends in world events and extrapolate the most likely outcomes in their fiction.
... his father was right about one thing, at least, when he’d said that lies could run around the world before the truth could get its boots on. And it was amazing how people wanted to believe them.
William de Worde wants to publish truthful stories, but not everybody signs in on this agenda. Almost immediately after the first issue of the A-M Times, a new paper is published by the guild of wood engravers, sponsored by dark money and filled with sensational stories and conspiracy theories. The public seems more interested in this ‘yellow’ press of gossip and outright invention than in the investigative efforts of William.
There were no flies on C.M.O.T. Dibbler. He would have charged them rent.
Even more dangerously, a self-appointed Committee to Unelect the Patrician is plotting to bring down lord Vetinari and replace him with one of their own yes-men. Putting a muzzle on the idealist young William is very high on their agenda.
The main plot of the novel deals with this palace coup and the role of investigative reporters in a healthy society, but recent events make me pay more attention to the dark side of the PRESS, putting a slight hint of despair into the numerous funny scenes from the novel. Ankh-Morpork is not only undergoing an Industrial Revolution: it is also experiencing an influx of migrants from far away places and from different species than the main population: dwarves, trolls, gnomes, werewolves, vampires, Igors, undeads and others. The old guard feels threatened by this ‘invasion’ of otherness.
The following quotes should give you an idea about what the issues are:
“There’s just too many people in the city,” Mr. Windling repeated. “I’ve nothing against .... outsiders, heavens know, but Vetinari let it go far too far. Everyone knows we need someone who is prepared to be a little more firm.”
“Why not? You can sell as many lies as you like if it’s advertising. That’s allowed,” said Saccharissa. “Please? We need the money!”
“Be careful. People like to be told what they already know. Remember that. They get uncomfortable when you tell them new things. New things ... well, new things aren’t what they expect.”
“That’s what Mr. Carney says. People should be allowed to choose, he said.”
“To choose what’s true?”
The last one is an argument for the ‘yellow’ press, compared here with one of C. M. O. T. Dibbler sausages: “Filled with rubbish of suspicious origin?”
“If we don’t make an effort all they’ll get is silly ... stories about talking dogs and Elves Ate My Gerbil, so don’t give me lectures on what’s important and what’s not, understand? ... and I might add, about humorous vegetables!
Lord de Worde was never wrong. It was not a position he understood in relation to his personal geography. People who took an opposing view were insane, or dangerous, or possibly even not really people. [...]
Lord de Worde used words with a tone and a volume that made them as good as fists, but he’d never used actual violence.
He had people for that.
“We’ve always been privileged, you see. Privilege just means ‘private law.’ That’s exactly what it means. He just doesn’t believe the ordinary laws apply to him. He really believes they can’t touch him, and that if they do he can just shout until they go away. That’s the de Worde tradition, and we’re good at it. Shout at people, get your own way, ignore the rules.”
“Don’t you agree, then, that it’s time for a ruler who listens to the people?”
“Maybe. Which people do you have in mind?”
>>><<<>>><<<
What makes Terry Pratchett different from a host of other writers with a bone to pick and a liberal agenda? I believe the answer lies somewhere in his wicked sense of humour and in his clever disguise of the sharpness of his pen/sword as screwball comedy fare.
Parts of the novel are pure Monty Python material : ... no, that’s not it. No, sir, I know that’s not it. Because it’s a parrot, that’s why. You’ve taught it to bark and you’ve painted “DoG” on the side of it but it’s still a parrot ...”
Others are wacky re-interpretations of our daily woes with technology, like the EULA for the Disorganizer MKII, the latest in biothaumaturgic design. [a bit too long to include here in full]
For lovers of actual science, we can even take a dive into multiverse theory with Otto:
“You know it is dangerous! said Goodmountain.
“Mere superstition! said Otto. “All zat possibly happens is that a subject’s own morphic signature aligns zer resons, or thing-particles, in phase-space according to zer Temporal Relevance Theory, creating zer effect of multiple directionless vindows vhich intersect vith the illusion of zer Present and create metaphoric images according to zer dictates of quasi-historical extrapolations. You see? Nothing mysterious about it at all!”
As a last resort, we might consume some dried tropical frogs with the Bursar of the Unseen University and fly away into a better future. All we have to do is believe we can do it, work toward it, tell it true:
“Pulling together is the aim of despotism and tyranny. Free men pull in all kinds of directions.” He smiled. “It’s the only way to make progress. That, and, of course, moving with the times. Good day to you.”
>>><<<>>><<<
This was actually a re-read for me, to refresh my memory for the next William de Worde episode [Snuff], but I liked it even better the second time around, being able to spot so many uncanny resemblance to recent political moments.
Discworld started out as a fantasy world with a medieval flavour. A flat Earth floating through space on the back of the giant turtle A’Tuin. However, over the course of more than forty novels, the winds of change blow over the world and over its capital city, Ankh-Morpork, bringing about new fashions and new inventions, like moving pictures, banks, trains and ‘clacks’ than can relay messages across vast distances.
Some people embrace the change, other bemoan the passing of the good old times, just as in our own spherical world. Some people, like the Patrician, try to steer the ship of state through these turbulent times. Others, like the young scion of a noble family named William de Worde, need to be trampled over by a runaway cart in order to hammer a new idea into their heads.
“The Truth Shall Make Ye Fret?”
The cart that hits young William is carrying the first printing press made of moving metal bits into Ankh-Morpork, just invented by the dwarves coming to the city to turn lead into gold [in the true way, the way that makes you sweat and toil at your task].
Together, William and the dwarves publish the ‘The Ankh-Morpork Times’, ushering in a new episode of the Industrial Revolution on Discworld. The birth of the fourth estate will make a lot of people ‘fret’ before they correct the spelling to ‘free’, giving us, the readers, one of the funniest adventures in the whole series while on the sidelines we get to debate the nature of truth, of the public as consumers of news and of power hungry little tyrants who dream of hitching this powerful force to their chariots.
Of course, the truth hid in some unlikely places and had some strange handmaidens.
“Let’s go to press,” he said.
>>><<<>>><<<
“Ah, you’re visitors to our fair city?” said the thief. “Then this is your lucky day, sir and ... sir. A theft of twenty-five dollars entitles you to immunity from further street theft for a period of full six months plus, for this week only, the choice of this handsome box of crystal wine glasses or a useful set of barbecue tools, which will be the envy of your friends.”
If you are a new reader for the series, don’t fret, Ankh-Morpork welcomes anyone, as long as they carry some form of currency on their person. Once you get past the Assassin’s Guild, you might attract the attention of the City Guards or of the wizards of Unseen University before stopping to try one of the sausages-inna-bun from Cut-Me-Own-Throat-Dibbler. You might want to steer clear of Foul Ole Ron and his merry band of homeless vagabonds.
William de Worde meets just about everybody who is somebody in Ankh-Morpork as he roams the city streets in search of stories worthy to be included in his new publication, from lord Vetinari and Captain Vimes all the way down to the stinking places favoured by Foul Ole Ron and his gang. Pretty soon, de Worde will need assistance with the news, which comes in the form of a very personable and proper young lady named Sacharissa Cripslock, and of a young vampire iconographer from Uberwald named Otto, who has sworn a blood-temperance oath yet has a morbid fascination with intense light sources and with its opposite, called ‘darklight’.
“Zer philosopher Heidehollen tells us zat the universe is just a cold soup of time, all time mixed up together, and vot we call zer passage of time is merely qvantum fluctuations in zer fabric of space-time.”
“You have very long winter evenings in Uberwald, don’t you”
It’s hard for me to pick a winner in this terrific ensemble piece that features guest appearances from so many old friends in Ankh-Morpork. The newcomers hold their own well, from the earnest William to the pragmatic Cassandra and scientific-minded Otto. I must make a special award somehow for Gaspode, the talking dog, who becomes here a source of information about government conspiracies known as ‘Deep Bone’.
>>><<<>><<<
Make Ankh-Morpork Great Again
The novel was published in 2000, many years before the terms ‘post-truth’ and ‘stochastic terrorism’ became common coinage. Yet such is the predictive talent of the best science-fiction authors to notice current trends in world events and extrapolate the most likely outcomes in their fiction.
... his father was right about one thing, at least, when he’d said that lies could run around the world before the truth could get its boots on. And it was amazing how people wanted to believe them.
William de Worde wants to publish truthful stories, but not everybody signs in on this agenda. Almost immediately after the first issue of the A-M Times, a new paper is published by the guild of wood engravers, sponsored by dark money and filled with sensational stories and conspiracy theories. The public seems more interested in this ‘yellow’ press of gossip and outright invention than in the investigative efforts of William.
There were no flies on C.M.O.T. Dibbler. He would have charged them rent.
Even more dangerously, a self-appointed Committee to Unelect the Patrician is plotting to bring down lord Vetinari and replace him with one of their own yes-men. Putting a muzzle on the idealist young William is very high on their agenda.
The main plot of the novel deals with this palace coup and the role of investigative reporters in a healthy society, but recent events make me pay more attention to the dark side of the PRESS, putting a slight hint of despair into the numerous funny scenes from the novel. Ankh-Morpork is not only undergoing an Industrial Revolution: it is also experiencing an influx of migrants from far away places and from different species than the main population: dwarves, trolls, gnomes, werewolves, vampires, Igors, undeads and others. The old guard feels threatened by this ‘invasion’ of otherness.
The following quotes should give you an idea about what the issues are:
“There’s just too many people in the city,” Mr. Windling repeated. “I’ve nothing against .... outsiders, heavens know, but Vetinari let it go far too far. Everyone knows we need someone who is prepared to be a little more firm.”
“Why not? You can sell as many lies as you like if it’s advertising. That’s allowed,” said Saccharissa. “Please? We need the money!”
“Be careful. People like to be told what they already know. Remember that. They get uncomfortable when you tell them new things. New things ... well, new things aren’t what they expect.”
“That’s what Mr. Carney says. People should be allowed to choose, he said.”
“To choose what’s true?”
The last one is an argument for the ‘yellow’ press, compared here with one of C. M. O. T. Dibbler sausages: “Filled with rubbish of suspicious origin?”
“If we don’t make an effort all they’ll get is silly ... stories about talking dogs and Elves Ate My Gerbil, so don’t give me lectures on what’s important and what’s not, understand? ... and I might add, about humorous vegetables!
Lord de Worde was never wrong. It was not a position he understood in relation to his personal geography. People who took an opposing view were insane, or dangerous, or possibly even not really people. [...]
Lord de Worde used words with a tone and a volume that made them as good as fists, but he’d never used actual violence.
He had people for that.
“We’ve always been privileged, you see. Privilege just means ‘private law.’ That’s exactly what it means. He just doesn’t believe the ordinary laws apply to him. He really believes they can’t touch him, and that if they do he can just shout until they go away. That’s the de Worde tradition, and we’re good at it. Shout at people, get your own way, ignore the rules.”
“Don’t you agree, then, that it’s time for a ruler who listens to the people?”
“Maybe. Which people do you have in mind?”
>>><<<>>><<<
What makes Terry Pratchett different from a host of other writers with a bone to pick and a liberal agenda? I believe the answer lies somewhere in his wicked sense of humour and in his clever disguise of the sharpness of his pen/sword as screwball comedy fare.
Parts of the novel are pure Monty Python material : ... no, that’s not it. No, sir, I know that’s not it. Because it’s a parrot, that’s why. You’ve taught it to bark and you’ve painted “DoG” on the side of it but it’s still a parrot ...”
Others are wacky re-interpretations of our daily woes with technology, like the EULA for the Disorganizer MKII, the latest in biothaumaturgic design. [a bit too long to include here in full]
For lovers of actual science, we can even take a dive into multiverse theory with Otto:
“You know it is dangerous! said Goodmountain.
“Mere superstition! said Otto. “All zat possibly happens is that a subject’s own morphic signature aligns zer resons, or thing-particles, in phase-space according to zer Temporal Relevance Theory, creating zer effect of multiple directionless vindows vhich intersect vith the illusion of zer Present and create metaphoric images according to zer dictates of quasi-historical extrapolations. You see? Nothing mysterious about it at all!”
As a last resort, we might consume some dried tropical frogs with the Bursar of the Unseen University and fly away into a better future. All we have to do is believe we can do it, work toward it, tell it true:
“Pulling together is the aim of despotism and tyranny. Free men pull in all kinds of directions.” He smiled. “It’s the only way to make progress. That, and, of course, moving with the times. Good day to you.”
>>><<<>>><<<
This was actually a re-read for me, to refresh my memory for the next William de Worde episode [Snuff], but I liked it even better the second time around, being able to spot so many uncanny resemblance to recent political moments.
January 16, 2023
Це мій перший Пратчет і, мабуть, останній. Він майстерно грається з мовою та з різними конструкціями персонажів, але мені цього замало. Наприклад, мій улюблений персонаж - вампір Отто, який працює фотографом й після кожного спалаху в нього або конвульсії, або він перетворюється на купку попелу, тобто буквально «згорає на роботі». Гострий розум автора і винахідливість перекладача - працюють. Світ Пратчета затишний і приємний, безліч дивацтв і цілком собі приземлених проблем. Якщо читач не здатен відчитувати іронію та сатиру, то немає сенсу навіть починати. Мені подобалося асоціювати себе з головним героєм Вільямом де Вордом, який взявся за щось нове для цього світу - газету «Анк-морпоркський Час». Тобто мешкнці цього відносно прогресивного Анк-Морпорку доти існували без преси, аж раптом зʼявляється відразу декілька видань і конкуренція всередині. Звідки брати новини - з життя чи з уяви, у що повірить читач, чого впринципі прагне читач на сторінках гезети, чи потрібна людям правда? Вільм чесний і винахідливий, він не дуже має час на редакторську роботу, бо постійно бореться з вітряками, але... все як у реальному житті. Найбільший недолік - слабкий сюжет, тобто події ніби й відбуваються, але куди це все йде, чим має закінчитися, чи справді всі ці деталі мають значення - невідомо. Важливіше як це зроблено, ніж про що. Мені відверто імпонує діалог з перекладачем у примітках, який також має цю книжку за розвагу й от нас уже щонайменше двоє - тих, хто підсміюється й тішиться.
«- Треба було мені отримати добру освіту, як от ви, —
засмучено сказав Нудль. — Гарна робота в теплому приміщені, й жодних фізичних навантажень. Якби я мав доб-ру освіту, я міг би знайти свою нищу.
- Нищу?
- Це мені розповідав один із тих чарівників, — пояснив Нудль. — У всього є нища, ну, ви знаєте. Тобто ніби своє місце. Для чого все існує.
Вільям кивнув. Він тямив у словах.
- Ніша? - уточнив він.
- Щось таке, ага, - Нудль зітхнув».
«Що ж до пана Шпильки та пана Тюльпана, то головне, що слід про них знати, - це те, що вони належали до категорії людей, які зазвичай називають вас «братан». Як правило, такі люди не викликають братніх почуттів».
«У катехізисі ж де Вордів було ще й «фантазування» — гріх, тяжчий навіть за відверту брехню: адже це була спроба зробити брехню цікавою»
«- Знаєш, як перепічки називаються в Квірмі? - спитав він, коли вони вже відійшли від торгової точки Нудля.
- Ну? - спитав пан Тюльпан.
- Сасіска в тестє.
- І після цього вони там думають, шо в них якась ненаша мова? Та ти смієшся.
- Я вам не гуморист зі сцени, пане Тюльпане!
- Та я тільки подумав, шо, ну, зрозуміліше було б, якби вони називали їх «сасіскамі в іспечьоннам хлебє», - знітився пан Тюльпан. Намагаючись змінити тему, він відкусив шматок продукту Нудля.
- Ну і смак... - вичавив він із набитим ротом.
- «Сасіска», пане Тюльпане, їхньою мовою також означає певний орган тіла».
«Як відомо, на світі є два типи людей. Є ті, хто про наповнену до половини склянку каже: ця склянка наполовину повна. І є ті, хто каже: склянка наполовину пуста. Але світ належить тим, хто, побачивши таку склянку, говорить: «Що таке з цією склянкою? Звиняйте! Моя склянка була повна! І більша!!!»
«- Доброго ранку, сержанте, - сказав Вільям.
Кивок троля засвідчив його готовність у принципі по-годитись із тим, що навколо дійсно спостерігались ознаки ранку і що за певних обставин цей ранок для когось ціл-ком міг би бути й добрим».
«- Треба було мені отримати добру освіту, як от ви, —
засмучено сказав Нудль. — Гарна робота в теплому приміщені, й жодних фізичних навантажень. Якби я мав доб-ру освіту, я міг би знайти свою нищу.
- Нищу?
- Це мені розповідав один із тих чарівників, — пояснив Нудль. — У всього є нища, ну, ви знаєте. Тобто ніби своє місце. Для чого все існує.
Вільям кивнув. Він тямив у словах.
- Ніша? - уточнив він.
- Щось таке, ага, - Нудль зітхнув».
«Що ж до пана Шпильки та пана Тюльпана, то головне, що слід про них знати, - це те, що вони належали до категорії людей, які зазвичай називають вас «братан». Як правило, такі люди не викликають братніх почуттів».
«У катехізисі ж де Вордів було ще й «фантазування» — гріх, тяжчий навіть за відверту брехню: адже це була спроба зробити брехню цікавою»
«- Знаєш, як перепічки називаються в Квірмі? - спитав він, коли вони вже відійшли від торгової точки Нудля.
- Ну? - спитав пан Тюльпан.
- Сасіска в тестє.
- І після цього вони там думають, шо в них якась ненаша мова? Та ти смієшся.
- Я вам не гуморист зі сцени, пане Тюльпане!
- Та я тільки подумав, шо, ну, зрозуміліше було б, якби вони називали їх «сасіскамі в іспечьоннам хлебє», - знітився пан Тюльпан. Намагаючись змінити тему, він відкусив шматок продукту Нудля.
- Ну і смак... - вичавив він із набитим ротом.
- «Сасіска», пане Тюльпане, їхньою мовою також означає певний орган тіла».
«Як відомо, на світі є два типи людей. Є ті, хто про наповнену до половини склянку каже: ця склянка наполовину повна. І є ті, хто каже: склянка наполовину пуста. Але світ належить тим, хто, побачивши таку склянку, говорить: «Що таке з цією склянкою? Звиняйте! Моя склянка була повна! І більша!!!»
«- Доброго ранку, сержанте, - сказав Вільям.
Кивок троля засвідчив його готовність у принципі по-годитись із тим, що навколо дійсно спостерігались ознаки ранку і що за певних обставин цей ранок для когось ціл-ком міг би бути й добрим».
November 8, 2022
Newspapers invade the Discworld. After a while it becomes clear that articles don’t always need to necessarily tell the whole truth to sell newspapers. But when a plot to overthrow Lord Vetinari threatens to shake up Ankh-Morpork, they realize only the truth can save them.
This is a very important book as it represents a turning point in the Discworld series in more ways than one.
It moves us away from the magic which dominated the early Discworld stories and starts to explore technology and how it affects people. You can clearly see the difference between this book and the first industrial revolution book, Moving Pictures, in that the results from this book actually do stick. The new technology changes the Discworld as a whole, instead of magical interference returning us to the status quo from the beginning.
Another turning point this book represents, is that this theme and concept feel brand new. Look at the Death series in the Discworld for example, where Death takes a vacation in nearly every single one of his books. There’s only so many variations on the same theme one can do before it starts to get stale. In that regard, this book does feel like a breath of fresh air as it blows new life into the Discworld series.
The protagonist does not exactly stand out. He’s probably one of the most “normal” protagonists you’ll find in the Discworld series. This does make him relatable though and through his eyes we also have the pleasure of seeing familiar and loved characters like Sam Vimes in a new light.
An important stand alone novel in the Discworld series. It has some fun moments and an important message about free press and freedom of speech.
This is a very important book as it represents a turning point in the Discworld series in more ways than one.
It moves us away from the magic which dominated the early Discworld stories and starts to explore technology and how it affects people. You can clearly see the difference between this book and the first industrial revolution book, Moving Pictures, in that the results from this book actually do stick. The new technology changes the Discworld as a whole, instead of magical interference returning us to the status quo from the beginning.
Another turning point this book represents, is that this theme and concept feel brand new. Look at the Death series in the Discworld for example, where Death takes a vacation in nearly every single one of his books. There’s only so many variations on the same theme one can do before it starts to get stale. In that regard, this book does feel like a breath of fresh air as it blows new life into the Discworld series.
The protagonist does not exactly stand out. He’s probably one of the most “normal” protagonists you’ll find in the Discworld series. This does make him relatable though and through his eyes we also have the pleasure of seeing familiar and loved characters like Sam Vimes in a new light.
An important stand alone novel in the Discworld series. It has some fun moments and an important message about free press and freedom of speech.
December 22, 2025
Правда впевнено вривається в ряди найкращих книжок Дискосвіту!
Чомусь дуже часто це трапляється з позацикловими книгами.
Тут і так майстерний гумор Пратчетта досяг неймовірних висот.
А наскільки вона актуальна в наш час постправди.
Я б взяв саме її до шкільної програми з усього Дискосвіту.
Чомусь дуже часто це трапляється з позацикловими книгами.
Тут і так майстерний гумор Пратчетта досяг неймовірних висот.
А наскільки вона актуальна в наш час постправди.
Я б взяв саме її до шкільної програми з усього Дискосвіту.
May 24, 2017
Pračet mi je ulepšao ovih par dana! :) Sita sam se ismejala! :)
June 26, 2019
The 25th Discworld novel is one about the industrial revolution on the Disc.
William de Word doesn't want to live the way his family has for generations. Instead, he lives in Ankh-Morpork and got a job. While he pays his bills by writing letters to different people from different other places he comes across a few industrious (see what I did there? ;P) dwarves who have invented a rather advanced printing press. Thus the Ankh-Morpork Times is born. The problem is not that paper is now used to spread stories; the problem is that de Word believes in the truth and only reports about actual events.
At the same time, there is a plot against Lord Vetinari (again). And the conspirators are bringing in outside help (their first mistake).
Soon, there is a feud between Ankh-Morpork's first newspaper and the one the opposition has started while The Watch has to solve the almost-murder Veterinari is accused of. Maybe the truth can help?
Generally, I don't like industrial revolutions or stories about them. Yes, yes, I know: we owe an industrial revolution a lot - but that goes for the bad stuff as well! Similarly, I prefer Death, the witches or Vimes with a loaded dragon as a rifle. Like a cat, I don't like change much. Hence, you can imagine my hesitation.
Nevertheless, this is Terry Pratchett. His craftmanship is undeniable (I dare you to say differently) and the way he slips in acute observations and hits certain readers over the head with a baseball bat regarding profound topics such as gender identity / gender fluidity - and in a sub-clause, too - while we're seeing the printing press not only being invented but also challenged and used; while we're following a man determined to serve the truth; while we learn about all the ways the truth can be twisted and corrupted ... it's quite wondrous to behold. One moment you're simply happy to see Vimes in a small role, the next that same Vimes throws a seemingly innocent line at you about accountability (how police officers are accountable to people and rulers - something quantifiable - while journalists say they are accountable to something so obscure as "the truth") that hits you and hits you hard (because the line, of course, isn't innocent at all).
And then Otto comes around the corner, keeping his vampire fangs in check by singing the most funny songs and revolutionizing photography. Oh, and the „click - oomph“ of Otto's photography device has got to be one of the best sound effects in an audiobook EVER. :D
If anyone asked me to describe this series exactly, I couldn't. It's humorous, often darkly so, but it's also deep in a beautiful and yet modest way, and the characters are not just unique but like family. It's absurd and yet makes perfect sense. I honestly believe that it takes a special kind of author to pull this sort of thing off and I have yet to meet anyone who could even only hope to hold a candle to Sir Terry.
October 20, 2019
One of the best Pratchett I've ever read. A bonus star for the Watch's appearances.
March 23, 2024
одна з найкращих прочитаних цьогоріч!
дуже добрий, якісно прописаний текст. усі герої до неймовірності цікаві й унікальні; алюзії і сатира на сучасний світ чудесні; жарти смішні.
я з нею дуже добре відпочила й відновила своє читання після затяжної паузи.
особлива подяка перекладачу. настільки якісно, скрупульозно та з любовʼю виконати роботу може не кожен. кожна примітка перекладача була дуже цінною.
точно буду продовжувати знайомство з Пратчеттом:)
дуже добрий, якісно прописаний текст. усі герої до неймовірності цікаві й унікальні; алюзії і сатира на сучасний світ чудесні; жарти смішні.
я з нею дуже добре відпочила й відновила своє читання після затяжної паузи.
особлива подяка перекладачу. настільки якісно, скрупульозно та з любовʼю виконати роботу може не кожен. кожна примітка перекладача була дуже цінною.
точно буду продовжувати знайомство з Пратчеттом:)
January 29, 2025
The 25th in my re-read of the entire Discworld series and we're once again in the cesspool that is the most colourful city, Ankh-Morpork!
One reason why I decided to re-read the series is that I can never just indulge in one of the volumes. The other is that the audiobooks were newly produced and the casts looked amazing.
Reading this 25th book (in chronological order) are:
William de Worde is living in his father's shadow. Never easy, but especially bad considering what a stuck-up asshole his father is. Thankfully, not much of him is in William. No, William is trying to make a living in Ankh-Morpork and he's doing it in a revolutionary way: by creating the very first newspaper. He ends up working for/with and employing people from all walks of life. A motley crew that turns the already very ... erm lively ... city upside down. It also kickstarts some vital changes to society.
Meanwhile, someone is trying to take on Lord Vetinari. Again. However, they are quite creative in how they do it which results in a headscratcher for the City Watch.
Journalism has arrived on the Discworld. Reporters. Photographers. They just need to learn what it is they are actually doing and how to do it properly. Then there is the city who needs to learn to deal with ... the truth.
And how does journalism arrive? Well, the how is actually not as important as the when because as Fate would have it, it's just when there is a conspiracy against the Patrician and an attack on his assistant. A whodunnit, kinda, complicated by nosy reporters of all races and the fact that the photographer is a vampire who always dusts himself when taking a picture. *lol*
Like Vimes. Oh, my poor Vimes. Vimes, my hero (and I don't use that title lightly). "Who are you answerable to?" ... it's such a sharp question. And an important one. Just like his observation / statement that not doing anything illegal doesn't mean you're not doing anything wrong. William better start listening and learning!
Progress can't be stopped, I guess, not even on the Disc, sadly. Still, while I'm not a big fan of the Industrial Revolution books, Terry Pratchett always manages to perfectly capture the pulse of the times - the amazing thing being that it doesn't matter WHAT times, the series is literally timeless. Look at journalism back when this was written and look at journalism right now. The author knew humanity to a T. It's eerie.
I am not gonna lie, I'm not in love with this installment's narrator. He wasn't bad at all, but we had a lot of Vimes and other City Watch characters and his voice just didn't work for them. He didn't do a good Vetinari either. That threw me a little.
Still, it's the Discworld, so I loved it of course!
One reason why I decided to re-read the series is that I can never just indulge in one of the volumes. The other is that the audiobooks were newly produced and the casts looked amazing.
Reading this 25th book (in chronological order) are:
William de Worde is living in his father's shadow. Never easy, but especially bad considering what a stuck-up asshole his father is. Thankfully, not much of him is in William. No, William is trying to make a living in Ankh-Morpork and he's doing it in a revolutionary way: by creating the very first newspaper. He ends up working for/with and employing people from all walks of life. A motley crew that turns the already very ... erm lively ... city upside down. It also kickstarts some vital changes to society.
Meanwhile, someone is trying to take on Lord Vetinari. Again. However, they are quite creative in how they do it which results in a headscratcher for the City Watch.
Journalism has arrived on the Discworld. Reporters. Photographers. They just need to learn what it is they are actually doing and how to do it properly. Then there is the city who needs to learn to deal with ... the truth.
And how does journalism arrive? Well, the how is actually not as important as the when because as Fate would have it, it's just when there is a conspiracy against the Patrician and an attack on his assistant. A whodunnit, kinda, complicated by nosy reporters of all races and the fact that the photographer is a vampire who always dusts himself when taking a picture. *lol*
Like Vimes. Oh, my poor Vimes. Vimes, my hero (and I don't use that title lightly). "Who are you answerable to?" ... it's such a sharp question. And an important one. Just like his observation / statement that not doing anything illegal doesn't mean you're not doing anything wrong. William better start listening and learning!
Progress can't be stopped, I guess, not even on the Disc, sadly. Still, while I'm not a big fan of the Industrial Revolution books, Terry Pratchett always manages to perfectly capture the pulse of the times - the amazing thing being that it doesn't matter WHAT times, the series is literally timeless. Look at journalism back when this was written and look at journalism right now. The author knew humanity to a T. It's eerie.
I am not gonna lie, I'm not in love with this installment's narrator. He wasn't bad at all, but we had a lot of Vimes and other City Watch characters and his voice just didn't work for them. He didn't do a good Vetinari either. That threw me a little.
Still, it's the Discworld, so I loved it of course!
March 27, 2024
Це було моє знайомство з творчістю Террі Пратчетта, і воно було дуже вдалим.
Я просто закохалася у світ який створив Пратчетт, вони всі дуже колоритні та впізнавані.
Історія яка розповідає про зародження вільної преси, в книзі є все і дружба, інтриги, зрада і головне те що герої долають всі перешкоди й нарешті можуть вільно друкувати свою газету.
Отто просто вкрав моє серденько, такий він просто душка і як він бореться зі своєю сутністю, бо хоче бути кращою версією себе
Мені також дуже сподобалась весільна традиція у гномів, що вони входять в сімейне життя без боргів за спиною.
Мені дуже сподобалось як росте та розвивається персонаж Вільяма, і те що він не зрадив своїм принципам.
І інші персонажі були не менш колоритними, злодії теж дуже добре прописані.
Моя оцінка 10/5
Дуже сподобалась книга прям дуже.
Я просто закохалася у світ який створив Пратчетт, вони всі дуже колоритні та впізнавані.
Історія яка розповідає про зародження вільної преси, в книзі є все і дружба, інтриги, зрада і головне те що герої долають всі перешкоди й нарешті можуть вільно друкувати свою газету.
Отто просто вкрав моє серденько, такий він просто душка і як він бореться зі своєю сутністю, бо хоче бути кращою версією себе
Мені також дуже сподобалась весільна традиція у гномів, що вони входять в сімейне життя без боргів за спиною.
Мені дуже сподобалось як росте та розвивається персонаж Вільяма, і те що він не зрадив своїм принципам.
І інші персонажі були не менш колоритними, злодії теж дуже добре прописані.
Моя оцінка 10/5
Дуже сподобалась книга прям дуже.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 27, 2018
Це скоріше 4,5 ⭐️
Мені, як журналісту, історія сподобалася. Ця книга здалася кращою за «Колір магії», якось і персонажі скоріше запам‘яталися, і світ у голові краще промальовувався.
Та й книга випхала кудись мого нечитуна, бо за останні два дні я читала по 100 сторінок на день, а це немале досягнення для мене цього місяця.
Жаль тільки, що у мене більше нема на полицях книг Пратчетта. Влітку в Києві буду докуповувати усе, що встигли видати ВСЛ.
І так, переклад - це щось! Дуже і дуже і дуже круто ❤️
Мені, як журналісту, історія сподобалася. Ця книга здалася кращою за «Колір магії», якось і персонажі скоріше запам‘яталися, і світ у голові краще промальовувався.
Та й книга випхала кудись мого нечитуна, бо за останні два дні я читала по 100 сторінок на день, а це немале досягнення для мене цього місяця.
Жаль тільки, що у мене більше нема на полицях книг Пратчетта. Влітку в Києві буду докуповувати усе, що встигли видати ВСЛ.
І так, переклад - це щось! Дуже і дуже і дуже круто ❤️
October 8, 2017
Коротко про переклад:
- Знаєш, як перепічки називаються в Квірмі?
- Ну?
- Сасіска в тєстє.
- Знаєш, як перепічки називаються в Квірмі?
- Ну?
- Сасіска в тєстє.
November 27, 2024
Це було дивовижною, кумедно, влучно, тонко та саркастично 💪🔥👌
Пратчетт вміє викликати посмішку серйозними і важливими темами)
Люблю всіх героїв, вони живі та рідні. Завжди з задоволенням повертався в цей всесвіт
Пратчетт вміє викликати посмішку серйозними і важливими темами)
Люблю всіх героїв, вони живі та рідні. Завжди з задоволенням повертався в цей всесвіт
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