Terry Pratchett: The Fifth Elephant

Hi everyone

I just finished The Fifth Elephant, the 24th book in the Discworld series, written by one of the best authors ever; sir Terry Pratchett. I’ve had my copy for ages, and I think this was my third time reading it, yet it's still as engrossing and hilarious as ever.

"They say that diplomacy is a gentle art. That mastering it is a lifetime's work. But you do need a certain inclination in that direction. It's not something you can just pick up on the job.
A few days ago Sam Vimes was a copper – an important copper, true – chief of police – but still, at his core, a policeman. But today he is an ambassador - to the mysterious, fat-rich country of Uberwald. Today, Sam Vimes is also a man on the run.
At some point during his ambassadorship, things went very wrong. It's snowing. It's freezing. And if Vimes can't make it through the forest, with only his wits and the gloomy trousers of Uncle Vanya (don't ask), there's going to be a terrible war.
There are monsters on his trail. They're bright. They're fast. They're werewolves - and they're catching up." 

I LOVED this book. 

The story had everything (with the exception of the witches) I adore in the Discworld books. Carrot and Angua and their relationship, the always hilarious Gaspode, multiple Igors, a pregnancy, Detritus and his piecemaker, Vimes and Lady Sybil, Colon and Nobbs, the lovely Cheery ...

My husband can attest to how laugh-out-loud The Fifth Elephant is. There's Colon's stupidity, Igor-speak, the lisping of the vampires, Vimes as an unwilling Duke, Gaspode's talking, ... This is a very, very funny book.  

I loved learning more about Angua’s past, and Lady Sybil remains one of my favorite characters. She feels like an inspirational person, someone I’d love to have as a friend.

Beyond the humor and brilliant storytelling, we can’t forget Pratchett’s signature blend of hidden morals and social commentary. He touches on coming out, acceptance, sexism (both overt and subtle), mixed-race relationships, racism, and the clash between traditionalism and modern thinking.

Highly, higly recommended. If you love a story full of love wit, heart, and a story that makes you think while you laugh, The Fifth Elephant is a must-read.

Happy reading!
Helena