Terry Pratchett’sDiscworldseries opens withThe Color of Magic,andthe 1983 book starts out more baffling than anything I’ve read— but it quickly proves itself worthwhile. The beginning of the novel describes Terry Pratchett’s fantasy world, and its setting is one of the most unique ones readers will experience. Of course, reading about a world that sits atop four elephants balanced on a turtle is perplexing, and I’m no stranger to the fantasy genre. Even beyondA Color of Magic’s prologue, it takes a while to fully immerse oneself in Pratchett’s story.
There are numerous characters to remember inThe Color of Magic,though the central narrative comes to center just two of them. The way the world and magic system work is also somewhat baffling, andPratchett lets readers piece it together as they go. This, combined with the author’s comedic writing style, the whole experience of beginningDiscworldis bewildering. It’s certainly worth pushing through, though, asThe Color of Magicis an entertaining and thoughtful ride. It’s also the beginning of a great andambitious fantasy seriesoverall.
The Opening Of Discworld Left Me Scratching My Head
The Color Of Magic Is Entertaining & Observant Even When It Doesn’t Make Sense
The Color of Magicis broken up into four different parts, and each of them sees the book’s two central characters — the disgraced wizard Rincewind and tourist Twoflower — embarking on a new portion of their adventure together. The two find themselves in some hilariously tough spots throughout the firstDiscworldbook, and it often feels as though their meandering story has no point. This is likely intentional, asDiscworldis meant to parody typical fantasy tropes and narratives. However, I found their whole journey perplexing while I was reading it.
You get used to Pratchett’s world as the book continues, butThe Color of Magicmakes a difficult entry-point into the author’s beloved fantasy series.
You get used to Pratchett’s world as the book continues, butThe Color of Magicmakes a difficult entry-point into the author’slengthy fantasy series.There isn’t much explanation when it comes to Pratchett’s world-building, and I often found myself re-reading passages to see if I’d missed something. As it turns out, Rincewind and Twoflower’s adventure really is as ridiculous as it’s described. This might turn newcomers off of Pratchett’sDiscworldseries, but it’s worth powering through the opening.
It’s Worth Pushing Through The First Discworld Book
Terry Pratchett’s Series Improves As It Goes
AlthoughThe Color of Magicis a baffling opening forDiscworld,it’s well worth pushing through the fantasy novel. For one, there are some acute revelations within its pages, both referring to the fantasy genre and the real world. I often found myself highlighting passages and chuckling at Pratchett’s observations. The author’s cynical notes about people — whether he’s referring to tourists or heroes — are comical. AndPratchett works a few nuggets of wisdom into his work, especially during his conversations about Death and Fate.
Pratchett’sDiscworldseries also improves significantly as time goes on, as the author eventually balances the satirical elements of his books with true fantasy storytelling. He also finds his footing when it comes to world-building and writing, making laterDiscworldbooks far easier to follow.The Color of Magicisn’t the best example of why people love Pratchett’s fantasy series, which is considered a classic within the genre. Perhaps this is why readers don’t recommend starting with it.
I Finally Understand Why People Recommend Starting With Other Discworld Books
There’s a lot of debate regarding thebest reading order forDiscworld,butmany fans of the series agree thatThe Color of Magicisn’t the best starting point. I still believe it’s worth pushing through, as it really is a fun ride. Unfortunately, it’s not the sort of gripping narrative most fantasy readers are accustomed to. And some might fare better skipping it, which is doable, since all theDiscworldbooks can technically be read as standalones. Pratchett’s later installments don’t require knowledge ofThe Color of Magic,even if they feature recurring characters or locations.
The fourthDiscworldbook,Mort,is often recommended as a good entry-point, since it’s where Pratchett’s writing style and storytelling really pick up.
The fourthDiscworldbook,Mort,is often recommended as a good entry-point, since it’s where Pratchett’s writing style and storytelling really pick up.Guards! Guards!andSmall Godsare also great places to dive in, though advice differs from reader to reader. Those who don’t enjoyThe Color of Magicshould probably skipThe Light Fantastic,however. The second installment continues the Rincewind and Twoflower’s journey from the first book. And given how much the two books have in common narratively, I understand why some prefer to startDiscworldelsewhere.
