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Sir Terry Pratchett: A Ranking of His Most Popular Novels
Sir Terry Pratchett, a celebrated British author and icon of comic fantasy, remains beloved by readers worldwide. His Discworld series, a sprawling and imaginative universe blending magic with sharp societal satire, captivated millions between 1983 and 2015, selling over 100 million copies globally. Pratchett, knighted in 2009 for his contributions to literature and co-author of the acclaimed Good Omens with Neil Gaiman, created enduring characters such as Granny Weatherwax, Sam Vimes, and Rincewind. Before his death at 66, following a battle with early-onset Alzheimer’s disease, Pratchett’s literary legacy solidified him as a master storyteller. Based on reader scores from the book review platform Goodreads, we present a countdown of his 11 most highly-rated novels.
10. Night Watch (Discworld #29; City Watch #6)
115,203 ratings
During a magical tempest, Commander Sam Vimes is unexpectedly transported to the grim past of Ankh-Morpork. Compelled to assume a different identity, he must instruct his younger self while striving to avert a revolution from descending into bloodshed. This darker installment in the 29th Discworld booklist delves into themes of justice, identity, and ethical compromises.
9. Wyrd Sisters (Discworld #6; Witches #2)
125,674 ratings
A witty reimagining of Macbeth, Wyrd Sisters involves Granny Weatherwax, Nanny Ogg, and Magrat Garlick in royal intrigue when a usurper seizes the throne. Readers can anticipate apparitions, a lost infant, a travelling theatre group, and amateur theatricals.
8. Small Gods (Discworld #13)
128,391 ratings
Brutha, a simple acolyte within the powerful Omnian church, uniquely retains the ability to hear the voice of their deity, Om, now trapped in the form of a tortoise. This self-contained Discworld novel combines theological concepts, political commentary, and Pratchett’s characteristic satire.
7. Going Postal (Discworld #33; Moist von Lipwig #1)
130,968 ratings
Con artist Moist von Lipwig is presented with a stark choice: revitalize the city’s defunct postal service or face execution. Confronted by golems, deranged assassins, and bureaucratic pandemonium, Moist must outmaneuver everyone, including his own nature.
6. The Light Fantastic (Discworld #2; Rincewind #2)
161,872 ratings
The Discworld is threatened with obliteration, and its only salvation rests with Rincewind, arguably the most incompetent wizard. Rincewind, alongside Twoflower and the Luggage, returns to confront trolls, Death, and cosmic entities in this rapid-paced sequel to The Colour of Magic.
5. Equal Rites (Discworld #3; Witches #1)
191,156 ratings
When a wizard inadvertently bequeaths his magical abilities to a girl, Eskarina Smith ventures to join Unseen University, an institution historically closed to women. Supported by Granny Weatherwax, Eskarina challenges the ingrained traditions of her world’s male-dominated magical establishment.
4. Guards! Guards! (Discworld #8; City Watch #1)
224,471 ratings
Ankh-Morpork, a city teeming with dragons, clandestine organizations, and inept governance, necessitates burned-out Sam Vimes to assemble a diverse group of nonconformists in the Night Watch to protect the metropolis from annihilation. This novel marks the inception of the popular City Watch sub-series and introduces some of Pratchett’s most enduring characters.
3. Mort (Discworld #4; Death #1)
261,182 ratings
Mort, earnest, inquisitive, and socially awkward, becomes an apprentice to Death but commits a grave error: interfering with destiny. A fan favorite, this book harmonizes humor with emotional depth and serves as an accessible entry point into the Discworld series. It also initiates Death’s development as one of Pratchett’s most philosophical figures.
2. The Colour of Magic (Discworld #1; Rincewind #1)
407,225 ratings
Pratchett’s inaugural Discworld novel introduces Rincewind, the cowardly wizard, and Twoflower, the oblivious tourist. Their escapades lead them across a fantastical realm that satirizes Tolkien, Le Guin, and traditional sword and sorcery narratives. This installment is a cult classic and the genesis of a lengthy series.
1. Good Omens (with Neil Gaiman)
799,086 ratings
The apocalypse is imminent, but angel Aziraphale and demon Crowley are unenthusiastic about the prospect. They collaborate to thwart the Antichrist, currently a schoolboy in rural England. With whimsical humor and theological playfulness, Good Omens merges British lightheartedness with incisive observations on good, evil, and human nature. Pratchett’s most renowned work was adapted into an Emmy and BAFTA-nominated show in 2019, with a third and final season forthcoming.