Review: The Truth by Terry Pratchett (A Discworld Novel)

The Truth by Terry Pratchett: 8.8/10

Josh Kirby Cover: The Truth Discworld

Political intrigue, assassinations, corruption, cover-ups, and a talking dog; a cabal of shadowy figures are undermining Ankh-Morpork’s cherished autocracy. This could not have happened at a better time, because the Discworld just got its first newspaper.

Plot: 8/10

The plot is a run-of-the-mill conspiracy thriller (reporter discovers conspiracy-reporter reports- bad guys try to kill reporter). This sounds like a criticism, but it’s the entire point of the book. Like so many of the Discworld novels, The Truth uses well-known plot elements and transpose them over the rich and intricate fabric of the Discworld.

Standard plot + chaotic and magical setting = very entertaining novel

Characters: 9/10

William de Worde is a well-rounded protagonist. His journey from meek scribe to the Discworld’s first newspaper editor feels natural and relatable. The Protagonists Mr Pin and Mr Tulip are just menacing enough to convey a genuine sense of dread without sacrificing humour. The rest of the characters are where Sir Pratchett shines. Deep-Bone and the combustible vampire iconographer are brilliant characters and will stick with me for a long time.

Setting: 8/10

Ankh-Morpork. The grimy and chaotic city is a character in itself. If you’ve read the other Discworld novels, you might feel that the city is under-utilised in this novel.

Theme: 9/10

By showing the birth and eventual incorporation of the news media in a virgin society, the author explores three important themes. First, the subjective nature of the truth as viewed through the media. Second, the fickleness of the news consuming populace. Finally, the skewed views of both sides in determining what is and what isn’t important.

Style and Mood: 10/10

Classic Pratchett, he can inject humour into every scene without sacrificing the gravitas. His characters and environments are intricate and complete, with no significant labour from the reader’s side.

Total Score: 8.8/10

Another classic Discworld novel, a must-read for every fantasy fanatic.

Thanks for reading

J.J.J