Tar Daddoo
9/24/2012
I find I am rather fond of the later Discworld books and the Tiffany Aching ones, in particular. As the series progresses, Pratchett definitely shows a keener appreciation of how to structure a story. In addition, writing for young adults might help restrain some of his more absurdist tendencies.
In truth, I am not sure what I find so satisfying in this particular story. I doubt you would want to read it without having read the earlier Tiffany Aching books. Indeed, you might also want to read many of the prior Discworld books, especially those with witches. This story pulls a lot of elements together and reiterates what he has revealed before about witchcraft. Much of the appeal is the rich collection of references to earlier stories, so don't start here.
What makes this one interesting is not simply the challenge that Tiffany must overcome -- that's always there -- but the relationships that she must think about, understand, and strengthen. I found this endearing and special without being soppy.
In the end, it does feel like Tiffany is ready to wear midnight.
Tar Daddoo