2008-10-05 A Large Diamond Among Gems

More than 20 years ago now, a good friend pressed a copy of "The Colour of Magic" into my hands that launched a love affair with Terry's books that lasts to this day. Like most frustrated authors who lack the talent to deliver themselves, I read a lot, and I think I have read pretty much all that Terry has written since 198whatever, and yes some of it is quite a lot better than some other bits, but his work has never once been a disappointment.

So I was delighted to see Nation appear on the shelf last week and have just used a rainy Sunday morning to finish it.

A quick summation, of the important points; this is not a Disc World novel, it is a book aimed at anyone over about 9 who can read. It deals with the not inconsequential questions of being us, whoever or wherever that may be, and it does it by telling a good story. It is in fact, very good indeed.

I think this is a book Terry has wanted to write for a while, it has a highly polished feel to it, and I have to say represents a stand out piece of work even for his well known if remarkable talent to make us laugh and ponder for a while.

This should be essential reading for all youngsters who might go on to rule a nation, guard a border, expand our knowledge of the universe, join the priesthood or just decide to go fishing.

It certainly will be in my house.

Thanks (again) Terry
Trev Harvey