Terry Pratchett: The Truth

Hi everyone 

This was my third time reading The Truth by the inimitable Terry Pratchett. It’s the 25th Discworld novel, but it’s one you can start with even if you haven’t read the previous books. Some familiar characters make an appearance, but it’s mostly a fresh cast of wonderful and lovable people. If you’re curious, you can read my previous review from my second read-through here (It was my second review on this blog!)

"William de Worde is the accidental editor of the Discworld's first newspaper. Now he must cope with the traditional perils of a journalist's life - people who want him dead, a recovering vampire with a suicidal fascination for flash photography, some more people who want him dead in a different way and, worst of all, the man who keeps begging him to publish pictures of his humorously shaped potatoes.
William just wants to get at THE TRUTH. Unfortunately, everyone else wants to get at William. And it's only the third edition..."

This book was such a joy to read; I loved every moment of it and found myself reading long after I should have gone to sleep. While the Industrial Revolution subseries of Discworld isn’t my absolute favorite, The Truth stands out as something special to me. 

What makes The Truth so brilliant is how it pokes fun at journalism, media, and the pursuit of truth; all topics that feel just as relevant today as they did when the book was first published. William de Worde is such a relatable and endearing protagonist. He’s just a guy with baggage, trying to do the right thing in a world that’s utterly chaotic, unpredictable, and ever-changing. 
But my absolute favorite character in this book is Otto Chriek, the recovering vampire with a passion for photography. His way of talking, his clever wit, and his obsession with capturing the perfect shot (even at the cost of his own well-being) make him unforgettable. There’s something so charming about his enthusiasm and his struggle with the black ribbon.

One of the things I love most about Pratchett’s writing is how he weaves in social commentary without ever feeling preachy. The Truth is no exception. The story is hilarious, vivid, clever, witty, and it makes you laugh, think and agree with everything going on. 

It’s a book that makes you laugh out loud one minute and nod in agreement the next, as it explores themes like the power of the press, the nature of truth, and the absurdity of human (and non-human) behavior. The way Pratchett balances satire, humor, and heart is pure genius. The story is vivid, clever, and witty, and it leaves you feeling like you’ve just spent time with old friends.

Have you read The Truth? What’s your favorite Discworld novel? I’d love to hear your thoughts!

Happy reading!
Helena