Discworld #13: Small Gods by Terry Pratchett

Read: 23 February, 2009

Things just can't seem to go right for Brutha, Novice to the Great God Om. First a tortoise starts talking to him, then the head of the Inquisition notices that he exists, and that's just the start! Terry Pratchett delivers yet another wacky, zany, hilariously funny, and delightfully philosophical episode in the Discworld Series.

POSITIVE: Funny. Really funny. Laugh out loud while in public and make others think you're adled funny. In Small Gods, Pratchett's focus is on religion - monotheistic religion in particular. He handles his topic with great care, so that it is irreverent and funny, and yet somehow manages never to come off as insulting. The morals and philosophies of the story are also a treat and the ending, in particular, is absolutely perfect in every way.

NEGATIVES: None. Pratchett frequently falls a little short on his plots and endings, but this book is a shining exception. I don't get to say this often, but I think that this novel might just be perfect in every way.

Overall, this is a fabulous book and a joy to read from start to finish. I think that Atheists and scientists would most enjoy this read. Fundamentalists and religious conservatives may see themselves too accurately reflected and dislike the book as a result. Even so, I think that a good sense of humour will make this book an enjoyable read regardless of your religious beliefs.

Other books in the Discworld series:

1. The Colour of Magic


2. The Light Fantastic


3. Equal Rites


4. Mort


5. Sourcery


6. Wyrd Sisters


7. Pyramids


8. Guards! Guards!


9. Faust Eric


10. Moving Pictures


11. Reaper Man


12. Witches Abroad


13. Small Gods


14. Lords and Ladies


15. Men at Arms


16. Soul Music


17. Interesting Times


18. Maskerade


19. Feet of Clay


20. Hogfather


21. Jingo


22. The Last Continent


23. Carpe Jugulum


24. The Fifth Elephant


25. The Truth


26. Thief of Time


27. The Last Hero


28. The Amazing Maurice and his Educated Rodents


29. Night Watch


30. The Wee Free Men


31. Monstrous Regiment


32. A Hat Full of Sky


33. Going Postal


34. Thud!


35. Wintersmith


36. Making Money


37. Unseen Academicals


38. I Shall Wear Midnight


39. Snuff