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Equal Rites
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Equal Rites by Terry Pratchett - TT8 BOM (starts 22 May 2021)
DQs Day 11. If you are new or relatively new to Discworld, what do you think of Pratchett’s world and writing style so far? For more experienced Pratchett readers, what are your favorite things about his writing style or Discworld in general?
This section is the first I've read of Discworld and I can understand why it's a favourite world for many. It seems a unique world and one I'm sure I'll understand once read more books.
2. So we have our plucky heroine Esk and her witchy mentor Granny Weatherwax. What do you think of our two main characters and their relationship with each other?
I like them both. Esk wanting to go and learn everything at top speed and Granny knowing what up wanting to go slow. They're pushing each other.
3. A major theme is witch magic vs. wizard magic (and women vs. men), and I can’t wait to learn more about these different magical theories and world views. What do you think of this dynamic, and which type of magic are you more drawn to?
I like the dynamic. The way it's always been, doesn't have to be the way going forward. It seems witch magic is the practical, everyday magic and wizard is the showy magic.
4. Oh dear. Esk went a bit too far with the borrowing. What do you think is going to happen next? And what will Granny say or do?
Thought this would be the result. She didn't think through the consequations, which isn't a suprise as she a young girl and doesn't doesn't understand her power. I loved Granny's reluctant use of the staff.
Bonus: I am really enjoying Pratchett’s wit so far. What is your favorite quote from this first bit? Mine is:
“What’s an elephant?”
“A kind of badger,” said Granny. She hadn’t maintained forest-credibility for forty years by ever admitting ignorance.
That was a great quote. There are many good lines in this book. Plus funny too.
DQs - Day 11. If you are new or relatively new to Discworld, what do you think of Pratchett’s world and writing style so far? For more experienced Pratchett readers, what are your favorite things about his writing style or Discworld in general?
I really like Pratchett's insightful and funny comments about the craziness in the world. He is the author of many of my favorite quotes.
2. So we have our plucky heroine Esk and her witchy mentor Granny Weatherwax. What do you think of our two main characters and their relationship with each other?
I like how Esk isn't afraid of Granny and is brave in general. And I love how smart Esk is. Granny is just funny and I love her personality.
3. A major theme is witch magic vs. wizard magic (and women vs. men), and I can’t wait to learn more about these different magical theories and world views. What do you think of this dynamic, and which type of magic are you more drawn to?
I'm more drawn to witches - maybe because I love the witch characters in Discworld.
4. Oh dear. Esk went a bit too far with the borrowing. What do you think is going to happen next? And what will Granny say or do?
I've read the book before, but I do enjoy this interplay between Granny and the staff. LOVE the staff. And really tradition is a pretty strong thing.
Bonus: I am really enjoying Pratchett’s wit so far. What is your favorite quote from this first bit? Mine is:
“What’s an elephant?”
“A kind of badger,” said Granny. She hadn’t maintained forest-credibility for forty years by ever admitting ignorance.
I love all the above mentioned quotes. My favorite in this section is probably "as you grow older you'll find most people don't set foot outside their own heads much. "
DQs - Day 11. If you are new or relatively new to Discworld, what do you think of Pratchett’s world and writing style so far? For more experienced Pratchett readers, what are your favorite things about his writing style or Discworld in general?
I am a long-time fan and it is a source of neverending admiration and wonder, how Sir TP managed to translate all the issues of our world into fantasy and humour, holding up a mirror and showing that it's not Discworld that is the distorted place ... or if it is, it just reflects back the global world.
2. So we have our plucky heroine Esk and her witchy mentor Granny Weatherwax. What do you think of our two main characters and their relationship with each other?
I really enjoy how different they are, even though they should be similar. There is a connection however, even though it's controversial, because the magic they possess and their way of thinking is so different.
3. A major theme is witch magic vs. wizard magic (and women vs. men), and I can’t wait to learn more about these different magical theories and world views. What do you think of this dynamic, and which type of magic are you more drawn to?
This kind of difference and the acceptance of it is what makes the world go round (or flat in this case), innit? :) I love it.
4. Oh dear. Esk went a bit too far with the borrowing. What do you think is going to happen next? And what will Granny say or do?
As this is a re-read for me, I shall skip this question.
Bonus: I am really enjoying Pratchett’s wit so far. What is your favorite quote from this first bit?
So hard to choose, as DW books are crammed full of great quotables, but for this round and this part let's go with:
"Front doors in Bad Ass were used only by brides and corpses and Granny had always avoided becoming either."
DQs - Day 11. If you are new or relatively new to Discworld, what do you think of Pratchett’s world and writing style so far? For more experienced Pratchett readers, what are your favorite things about his writing style or Discworld in general?
This is my first Pratchett book and I am pleasantly surprised. To be completely honest, I was sort of dreading digging in to these books but I was hooked from the first page. Now I am kicking myself for not reading the first two books before we started.
2. So we have our plucky heroine Esk and her witchy mentor Granny Weatherwax. What do you think of our two main characters and their relationship with each other?
Two strong female leads? I absolutely love it. They are both quirky and fiery and I am here for it. I wish I had a Granny Weatherwax growing up! I also appreciate how Granny has taken Esk under her wings.
3. A major theme is witch magic vs. wizard magic (and women vs. men), and I can’t wait to learn more about these different magical theories and world views. What do you think of this dynamic, and which type of magic are you more drawn to?
I think this dynamic is pretty interesting and made me really stop and consider what witch vs wizard has meant along with the women vs men perspective. I think I have been more drawn to witches in the past and that’s probably based off the fact that since I was a small child witches were more prevalent in shows, books, etc.
4. Oh dear. Esk went a bit too far with the borrowing. What do you think is going to happen next? And what will Granny say or do?
I think I read to far in my copy so I already know what happens. 😊
Bonus: I am really enjoying Pratchett’s wit so far. What is your favorite quote from this first bit? Mine is:
“What’s an elephant?”
“A kind of badger,” said Granny. She hadn’t maintained forest-credibility for forty years by ever admitting ignorance.
“Granny”
“What?”
“Do you know how wizards like to be buried?”
“Yes!”
“Well, how?”
Granny Weatherwax paused a the bottom of the stairs.
“Reluctantly.”
1. If you are new or relatively new to Discworld, what do you think of Pratchett’s world and writing style so far? For more experienced Pratchett readers, what are your favorite things about his writing style or Discworld in general?I'm relatively new and it's something to get used to. No chapters and lots of jokes. I have had quite a hard time, only reading around 20-30 pages per day. I'm still undecided if his books are something for me.
2. So we have our plucky heroine Esk and her witchy mentor Granny Weatherwax. What do you think of our two main characters and their relationship with each other?
Esk growing up with only brothers seems like a girl with plenty of backbone. It doesn't look like they have any sort of relationship with each other previous to Granny starting to teach Esk about magic.
3. A major theme is witch magic vs. wizard magic (and women vs. men), and I can’t wait to learn more about these different magical theories and world views. What do you think of this dynamic, and which type of magic are you more drawn to?
If you haven't read any Discworld books yet, you don't really get much information about the wizard kind of magic. We only hear a little bit from Granny, who is somewhat biased, haha. But I'm excited to learn more about the different types of magic and how they work. I think I'm drawn to both for different reasons.
4. Oh dear. Esk went a bit too far with the borrowing. What do you think is going to happen next? And what will Granny say or do?
Granny will hopefully fix her up and probably give her a piece of her mind. It's difficult to tell with Pratchett though. Anything can happen.
Bonus: I am really enjoying Pratchett’s wit so far. What is your favorite quote from this first bit? Mine is:
“What’s an elephant?”
“A kind of badger,” said Granny. She hadn’t maintained forest-credibility for forty years by ever admitting ignorance.
There are too many good to choose from. I love this one though.
DQs - Day 11. If you are new or relatively new to Discworld, what do you think of Pratchett’s world and writing style so far? For more experienced Pratchett readers, what are your favorite things about his writing style or Discworld in general?
I have read 4 or 5 Discworld novels previously and enjoy the setting. I am, however, having trouble getting into this particular book and I don't know why.
2. So we have our plucky heroine Esk and her witchy mentor Granny Weatherwax. What do you think of our two main characters and their relationship with each other?
They seem ok so far. I have seen Granny in action in the Tiffany Aching books, so I already have a feel for her. Esk is a typical kid, she questions everything and thinks she knows everything else. Granny will straighten her out.
3. A major theme is witch magic vs. wizard magic (and women vs. men), and I can’t wait to learn more about these different magical theories and world views. What do you think of this dynamic, and which type of magic are you more drawn to?
I feel like the dynamic in Discworld is a bit old-fashioned. I think the "witch" magic is more practical but the "wizard" magic would be useful in certain situations.
4. Oh dear. Esk went a bit too far with the borrowing. What do you think is going to happen next? And what will Granny say or do?
Granny did the right thing in rescuing Esk with the help of the staff. She also did a fair job of explaining to Esk why she went wrong. I was actually surprised at how patient Granny was with Esk.
Bonus: I am really enjoying Pratchett’s wit so far. What is your favorite quote from this first bit? Mine is:
“What’s an elephant?”
“A kind of badger,” said Granny. She hadn’t maintained forest-credibility for forty years by ever admitting ignorance.
"If you can't learn to ride an elephant, you can at least learn to ride a horse."
Lauri wrote: "DQs - Day 11. If you are new or relatively new to Discworld, what do you think of Pratchett’s world and writing style so far? For more experienced Pratchett readers, what are your favorite things..."
I am also having trouble getting into this one. It has taken me over a week to read 45 pages and I have another 20 to go before having today's portion finished... I have read 4 or 5 others in the series and had no trouble getting into them at all. The lack of an audio edition (that isn't $65 and only on cassette) isn't helping any.
message 59:
by
Erin *Proud Book Hoarder*
(last edited May 22, 2021 08:44AM)
(new)
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rated it 3 stars
DQs - Day 11. If you are new or relatively new to Discworld, what do you think of Pratchett’s world and writing style so far? For more experienced Pratchett readers, what are your favorite things about his writing style or Discworld in general?
It was light and filled with humor, so I enjoyed that. However, I do get impatient if it's too much straight humor, so it's not something I can read straight through. I also didn't enjoy not having chapters.
2. So we have our plucky heroine Esk and her witchy mentor Granny Weatherwax. What do you think of our two main characters and their relationship with each other?
I love Granny! I see her and Esk staying close to each other. Esk doesn't have a strong personality yet but I like her father from the previous scenes and enjoy the small village charm.
3. A major theme is witch magic vs. wizard magic (and women vs. men), and I can’t wait to learn more about these different magical theories and world views. What do you think of this dynamic, and which type of magic are you more drawn to?
I like the concept of Witch magic for the old fashioned feel with herbs and healing and small villages, but the world of "Wizard" sounds mystical with proper schools that sound like a hoot. I'd give it a bit more to the wizard but they both sound fun.
4. Oh dear. Esk went a bit too far with the borrowing. What do you think is going to happen next? And what will Granny say or do?
I think it was funny in one way, a teachable lesson in another, but I can see magical disasters happening all over the place considering the age and situation. Not sure on Granny's responses yet
DQs - Day 11. If you are new or relatively new to Discworld, what do you think of Pratchett’s world and writing style so far? For more experienced Pratchett readers, what are your favorite things about his writing style or Discworld in general?
I've read a few Discworld books (including this one), as well as a few of Pratchett's non-Discworld books, and what striked me most about his writing style -- which he certainly honed over time -- is that he can get at the heart of serious human issues while using multiple types of humour, all at the same time. The problem I had with the first two Discworld books was that the humor was kind of "trying to hard," and I think Equal Rites is the first where he relaxed that impulse and began to achieve greatness. It also helps that the main characters are female.
2. So we have our plucky heroine Esk and her witchy mentor Granny Weatherwax. What do you think of our two main characters and their relationship with each other?
They are both great, and I like their relationship. Granny is kind of awkward around children and has to learn to understand Esk a bit better. It's interesting how she disapproves of "wizard magic" but still has to figure out the best way to guide Esk given that Esk has it, while Granny is used to a different sort. Esk is just cutely annoying in the way that curious children at her age tend to be!
3. A major theme is witch magic vs. wizard magic (and women vs. men), and I can’t wait to learn more about these different magical theories and world views. What do you think of this dynamic, and which type of magic are you more drawn to?
I kind of think that the whole point is that there's room for both, and that a blend is the best thing for everybody.
4. Oh dear. Esk went a bit too far with the borrowing. What do you think is going to happen next? And what will Granny say or do?
I don’t remember from previous read, so I’ll guess that Granny will scold her a bit, but start to be understanding of Esk's impulses. Esk may have learned her lesson well enough already that a scolding is not necessary.
Bonus: I am really enjoying Pratchett’s wit so far. What is your favorite quote from this first bit? Mine is:
“What’s an elephant?”
“A kind of badger,” said Granny. She hadn’t maintained forest-credibility for forty years by ever admitting ignorance.
So hard to choose. I was struck by "But magic has a habit of lying low, like a rake in the grass."
It's so quietly evocative of a rake flying up to hit someone hard in the face when they step on it! Another writer might have put "a snake in the grass" instead but "a rake" is so much better.
Mod
DQs - Day 11. If you are new or relatively new to Discworld, what do you think of Pratchett’s world and writing style so far? For more experienced Pratchett readers, what are your favorite things about his writing style or Discworld in general?
I'm another long-time Pratchett fan, and I agree with all the points made about the brilliantness of Sir TP - the layers, the humanity, the humour. The fact that the books stand up to multiple rereads is very rare, and there's always some new gem to be unearthed.
2. So we have our plucky heroine Esk and her witchy mentor Granny Weatherwax. What do you think of our two main characters and their relationship with each other?
Love them both. For anyone who knows and loves a feisty small girl, Esk is so familiar feeling. Granny is just the bees knees.
3. A major theme is witch magic vs. wizard magic (and women vs. men), and I can’t wait to learn more about these different magical theories and world views. What do you think of this dynamic, and which type of magic are you more drawn to?
As my favourite character would have to be Tiffany Aching, I'll go with witch magic.
4. Oh dear. Esk went a bit too far with the borrowing. What do you think is going to happen next? And what will Granny say or do?
It's a reread, although granted I can't remember it that well. I did love Granny vs the staff.
Bonus: I am really enjoying Pratchett’s wit so far. What is your favorite quote from this first bit? Mine is:
“What’s an elephant?”
“A kind of badger,” said Granny. She hadn’t maintained forest-credibility for forty years by ever admitting ignorance.
So many good quotes given so far. Another good one-
"I'm surely going to regret this, she told herself, displaying considerable foresight."
DQs - Day 11. If you are new or relatively new to Discworld, what do you think of Pratchett’s world and writing style so far? For more experienced Pratchett readers, what are your favorite things about his writing style or Discworld in general?
I am new to Discworld. I like his writing. I read the first two books and found it a bumpy start but I am enjoying this one more.
2. So we have our plucky heroine Esk and her witchy mentor Granny Weatherwax. What do you think of our two main characters and their relationship with each other?
I an enjoying reading about them. Granny Weatherwax I am liking her attitude.
3. A major theme is witch magic vs. wizard magic (and women vs. men), and I can’t wait to learn more about these different magical theories and world views. What do you think of this dynamic, and which type of magic are you more drawn to?
I am drawn more to witch magic.
4. Oh dear. Esk went a bit too far with the borrowing. What do you think is going to happen next? And what will Granny say or do?
No idea maybe Esk will have more enhanced witchy wizard powers. Granny may be a bit stern with her.
Bonus: I am really enjoying Pratchett’s wit so far. What is your favorite quote from this first bit? Mine is:
“What’s an elephant?”
“A kind of badger,” said Granny. She hadn’t maintained forest-credibility for forty years by ever admitting ignorance.
I liked that one but I really chuckled about the babies quote "putting milk in one end and keeping the other end clean as possible"
Oh and the one about Bad Ass is a village that you couldnt find on a map of itself.
1. If you are new or relatively new to Discworld, what do you think of Pratchett’s world and writing style so far? For more experienced Pratchett readers, what are your favorite things about his writing style or Discworld in general?So far I've read the very first book [hated it] and the Death and Tiffany Aching series [both of which I liked]. I don't think he really hit his stride yet with the first one and there wasn't really enough to set it apart from standard high fantasy stuff for me personally but with the other ones I've really enjoyed how he takes certain tropes and plays with them and he usually has some pretty good social commentary as well. Sometimes the bit get a little bit too relentlessly clever for me but I've found I enjoy listening to them much better than reading them and it helps with that.
2. So we have our plucky heroine Esk and her witchy mentor Granny Weatherwax. What do you think of our two main characters and their relationship with each other?
I know Granny a bit from the Tiffany Aching series but so far I like both of them and think they have a fun dynamic.
3. A major theme is witch magic vs. wizard magic (and women vs. men), and I can’t wait to learn more about these different magical theories and world views. What do you think of this dynamic, and which type of magic are you more drawn to?
In general I'm not a huge fan of the whole 'women do things intuitively whereas men are good at thinking' thing but 1. this is a rather old book and 2. I don't feel like he's necessarily going to enforce it that strictly or even really endorse it since this is a book about a woman being a wizard so basically I'm just glad there's some wiggle room. I would probably be more drawn to wizard magic personally although I think there's a lot more overlap than witches and wizards like to think.
4. Oh dear. Esk went a bit too far with the borrowing. What do you think is going to happen next? And what will Granny say or do?
Guess we'll see ¯\_(ツ)_/¯ lol. Sorry, one thing I've discovered about myself from discussing books with other people is that I don't really like speculating on future plot points as much as other people seem to, I'd rather just wait and see.
Bonus: I am really enjoying Pratchett’s wit so far. What is your favorite quote from this first bit? Mine is:
I don't remember the exact quote but I did like the part where it was talking about witches doing magic naked and said Granny wouldn't want to admit that she had that much skin under her clothes
Ok, I just listened to the Colour of Magic and I couldn't get into it, but I'm trying this one on the assurance that it's better. I'm not so sure about the writing style, but I'm doing this one as a book instead of audio to see if I get into it more.
Mod
1. If you are new or relatively new to Discworld, what do you think of Pratchett’s world and writing style so far? For more experienced Pratchett readers, what are your favorite things about his writing style or Discworld in general?
I love the way he writes has those unexpected turns of phrase, or just unexpected worls elements (giant turtle holding up a disc!). His writing is creative and funny
2. So we have our plucky heroine Esk and her witchy mentor Granny Weatherwax. What do you think of our two main characters and their relationship with each other?
I really like both of them and they have some similarities too in their strengths. It makes a good team
3. A major theme is witch magic vs. wizard magic (and women vs. men), and I can’t wait to learn more about these different magical theories and world views. What do you think of this dynamic, and which type of magic are you more drawn to?
I like how this is explored as we have always been exposed to the whole witch/wizard thing growing up and often wizards are seen as more powerful. I like how Pratchett makes them actually into two different types of magic and we explore the gender biases in this way
4. Oh dear. Esk went a bit too far with the borrowing. What do you think is going to happen next? And what will Granny say or do?
This is a re-read for me, but it wasn't a surprise that Esk went a bit far. She hasn't been taught how to use her powers and is going to make mistakes
Bonus: I am really enjoying Pratchett’s wit so far. What is your favorite quote from this first bit? Mine is:
“What’s an elephant?”
“A kind of badger,” said Granny. She hadn’t maintained forest-credibility for forty years by ever admitting ignorance
I still laugh at this one everytime
“Do you know how wizards like to be buried,
Yes
Well how
Reluctantly."
Day 1 DQs 1. If you are new or relatively new to Discworld, what do you think of Pratchett’s world and writing style so far? For more experienced Pratchett readers, what are your favorite things about his writing style or Discworld in general?
I am not new to Discworld and have read every book in the main series. The Guards have always been a favorite and the witches my least favorite. In fact, this book ties for my least favorite in the entire series, so there you go. (Side note: if my team members are reading this, please ignore the last sentence).
2. So we have our plucky heroine Esk and her witchy mentor Granny Weatherwax. What do you think of our two main characters and their relationship with each other?
I think they are both really stubborn and think they know everything. Granny from experience and Esk from inexperience. I think it will be quite a paring.
3. A major theme is witch magic vs. wizard magic (and women vs. men), and I can’t wait to learn more about these different magical theories and world views. What do you think of this dynamic, and which type of magic are you more drawn to?
I always found the male v. female a little too black and white and (view spoiler) so again, not my favorite. I like Ponder’s magic with the ants but that is quite a few books down the road.
4. Oh dear. Esk went a bit too far with the borrowing. What do you think is going to happen next? And what will Granny say or do?
This is a re-read for me, but Esk is always going to push the rules. It is why we have a plot.
Bonus: I am really enjoying Pratchett’s wit so far. What is your favorite quote from this first bit?
I have enjoyed some of the ones others have mentioned including “rake in the grass” and the comment on front doors, as for my childhood, we mostly only used the front door when cleaning the spiders off.
DQs - Day 11. If you are new or relatively new to Discworld, what do you think of Pratchett’s world and writing style so far? For more experienced Pratchett readers, what are your favorite things about his writing style or Discworld in general?
I am fairly new to Discworld. I read the previous books and even though I had trouble finishing the first one, so far I have enjoyed the other two. I like the idea of a flat world and a giant turtle traveling through space, it gives an extra bit of magic to the story.
Regarding the writing style it is a little challenging at the beggining. Pratchett switches perspectives quickly and tries to describe a lot of things at once, which forces me to re read phrases in order to be able to picture everything. Once you get his rythm and he starts focusing on characters it gets easier.
The lack of chapters makes it difficult to stop reading, which is good when you want to keep going and bad when you just must stop and find where you left off the next day.
2. So we have our plucky heroine Esk and her witchy mentor Granny Weatherwax. What do you think of our two main characters and their relationship with each other?
I have liked Granny, her cheekiness is rather funny. I haven't completely connected with Esk so far, sometimes she seems collected and mature but then her eagerness to learn reminds me that she is indeed a child. I have liked the relationship between Esk and Granny. The old woman seems to be getting better at dealing with kids, and Esk gets to learn withcraft.
3. A major theme is witch magic vs. wizard magic (and women vs. men), and I can’t wait to learn more about these different magical theories and world views. What do you think of this dynamic, and which type of magic are you more drawn to?
I think it is a great way to portray the male-female dichotomy and to make fun of the idea of "male/ female" only jobs. I like both magics and would love for Esk to go to the university and learn to use both.
4. Oh dear. Esk went a bit too far with the borrowing. What do you think is going to happen next? And what will Granny say or do?
Granny will probably help her out, altough she might tell her off afterward because she didn't heed her warnings.
Bonus: I am really enjoying Pratchett’s wit so far. What is your favorite quote from this first bit? Mine is:
“What’s an elephant?”
“A kind of badger,” said Granny. She hadn’t maintained forest-credibility for forty years by ever admitting ignorance.
I liked the one about the elephant as well and " The staff regarded her woodenly", I like the wordplay
@Lexi, what's your other least favorite? You have me curious now :)
Alysa wrote: "@Lexi, what's your other least favorite? You have me curious now :)"Raising Steam, as I think it is poorly written compared to his others. It is one of his last.
DQs - Day 11. If you are new or relatively new to Discworld, what do you think of Pratchett’s world and writing style so far? For more experienced Pratchett readers, what are your favorite things about his writing style or Discworld in general?
I've only read Color of Magic so far which I was not a fan of. I just don't think I'm a fan of Pratchet's writing or humor.
2. So we have our plucky heroine Esk and her witchy mentor Granny Weatherwax. What do you think of our two main characters and their relationship with each other?
I guess I like Granny more than Esk but I have to keep reminding myself she's only a little kid. I like that Granny pretty much took Esk under her wing to try to help her.
3. A major theme is witch magic vs. wizard magic (and women vs. men), and I can’t wait to learn more about these different magical theories and world views. What do you think of this dynamic, and which type of magic are you more drawn to?
I think wizard magic is more flashy whereas the witch magic is more earthly. The wizard magic (flashy) does seem more fun.
4. Oh dear. Esk went a bit too far with the borrowing. What do you think is going to happen next? And what will Granny say or do?
Had a feeing Esk would take it too far. She's too curious and hungry for her own good.
Bonus: I am really enjoying Pratchett’s wit so far. What is your favorite quote from this first bit? Mine is:
“What’s an elephant?”
“A kind of badger,” said Granny. She hadn’t maintained forest-credibility for forty years by ever admitting ignorance.
Can't really say I have a favorite.
DQs - Day 11. If you are new or relatively new to Discworld, what do you think of Pratchett’s world and writing style so far? For more experienced Pratchett readers, what are your favorite things about his writing style or Discworld in general?
This is my first Discworld book, so far it's a straightforward writing style. Almost reads like old fairtales (which aren't really my favorite types of reads), so I'll see how it goes.
2. So we have our plucky heroine Esk and her witchy mentor Granny Weatherwax. What do you think of our two main characters and their relationship with each other?
Not sure about Esk yet, she seems like a stubborn child, so she can go either way. I do like Granny so far, liking her lessons.
3. A major theme is witch magic vs. wizard magic (and women vs. men), and I can’t wait to learn more about these different magical theories and world views. What do you think of this dynamic, and which type of magic are you more drawn to?
It will be interesting to learn more, so far we have just had witch magic with the staff being the only wizard magic. So I think I need a little more info to decide. I do like what Granny's teaching for witch magic and agree with others that it seems practical.
4. Oh dear. Esk went a bit too far with the borrowing. What do you think is going to happen next? And what will Granny say or do?
I think Granny will continue to save the day, and hopefullly Esk will have learned that you can't control another being, makes me nervous that she may want to continue controlling rather than sharing.
Bonus: I am really enjoying Pratchett’s wit so far. What is your favorite quote from this first bit? Mine is:
“What’s an elephant?”
“A kind of badger,” said Granny. She hadn’t maintained forest-credibility for forty years by ever admitting ignorance.
I like that one, must admit that I didn't highlight anything to remember, but there have been some fun ones.
I am posting Day 2 a couple of hours early. Since for many of you, this is a reread, I will try to ask questions that are not predictions of the future story.
DQs Day 2Starting with a Bonus question...
“They say a little knowledge is a dangerous thing, but it is not one half so bad as a lot of ignorance.” (Granny said)
First off, who are “they”? I have always wanted to know. Secondly, do you agree with “them”?
5. Esk went ahead and did not follow Granny’s advice, and thought since she had a feeling she could get into the bird’s brain, then why not do it.
When you were a kid, did you jump off the swing, or touch the hot burner? If so, give us examples.
Do you think she learned something from it, or are we looking at shades of her future University life?
6. What do you think of Hilda and her version of Headology? What do you think of Headology in general?
7. Esk finds herself on a moving barge. Loved loved loved the resume of talents beyond washing and sweeping that Esk rattles off in an attempt to stay on the boat. What skills could you bring to the barge?
8. Speaking of the barge, what do you think of Esk’s decision to just leave Granny? Did she mean to leave on her own adventure, or was it an accident? Do you think her matter of fact attitude is a product of her magic, or just her personality or upbringing?
Jenny wrote: "DQs Day 2 Starting with a Bonus question...
“They say a little knowledge is a dangerous thing, but it is not one half so bad as a lot of ignorance.” (Granny said)
First off, who are “they”? I have always wanted to know. Secondly, do you agree with “them”?
“They” can be one of two things - the gossip of people around you, or it’s really you but you don’t want to admit to it so you say ‘they say’. If it is general gossip then I don’t always agree, however, if it is my opinion and I am pretending it’s what lots of people say then I agree.
5. Esk went ahead and did not follow Granny’s advice, and thought since she had a feeling she could get into the bird’s brain, then why not do it.
When you were a kid, did you jump off the swing, or touch the hot burner? If so, give us examples.
No, I was born a chicken and hated getting hurt, so was very compliant as a child when warned about something that might hurt me in some way. Mind you, as an adult I am more discerning (distrustful) so I don’t blindly believe something without research
Do you think she learned something from it, or are we looking at shades of her future University life?
Looking back I think it was shades of her future University life - by pushing the boundaries new discoveries could be made that may not be found by tamely following boundaries
6. What do you think of Hilda and her version of Headology? What do you think of Headology in general?
Headology relies on the idea that what people believe is what is real. Sort of psychology but smarter. This is used by witches to earn respect or at least fear, and also to cure patients. Hilda was of the opinion that headology was a more powerful style of magic than any type of magic that wizards use. Headology is what witching is all about. A witch needed a very powerful, focused, and trained mind to use headology and Hilda certainly had a very good mind.
7. Esk finds herself on a moving barge. Loved loved loved the resume of talents beyond washing and sweeping that Esk rattles off in an attempt to stay on the boat. What skills could you bring to the barge?
I can crochet, cook, keep books(accounting not reading) sort out the office and get the filing in order, I can chatter away to the night Captain and keep him awake
8. Speaking of the barge, what do you think of Esk’s decision to just leave Granny? Did she mean to leave on her own adventure, or was it an accident? Do you think her matter of fact attitude is a product of her magic, or just her personality or upbringing?
I think it showed the determination and curiosity of her character - not taking no for an answer and investigating the why of the no. I felt that her matter of fact attitude was part her personality and part a product of her magic.
DQs - Day 11. If you are new or relatively new to Discworld, what do you think of Pratchett’s world and writing style so far? For more experienced Pratchett readers, what are your favorite things about his writing style or Discworld in general?
This is my first adventure into Discworld and I have to admit I rather enjoyed it. I’ve even reserved the first two books.
2. So we have our plucky heroine Esk and her witchy mentor Granny Weatherwax. What do you think of our two main characters and their relationship with each other?
I like Granny, she has an iron will and is trying to impart her wisdom on young Esk, who like many a typical wilful child/ young adult knows better, and isn’t aware of the consequences of their actions.
3. A major theme is witch magic vs. wizard magic (and women vs. men), and I can’t wait to learn more about these different magical theories and world views. What do you think of this dynamic, and which type of magic are you more drawn to?
I like the natural elements of witchcraft but have to admit I am drawn to the flash-bangs of wizardry.
4. Oh dear. Esk went a bit too far with the borrowing. What do you think is going to happen next? And what will Granny say or do?
I’ve already read it so know the outcome, I’m not surprised that she went to far as she is testing and pushing boundaries.
Bonus: I am really enjoying Pratchett’s wit so far. What is your favorite quote from this first bit? Mine is:
“What’s an elephant?”
“A kind of badger,” said Granny. She hadn’t maintained forest-credibility for forty years by ever admitting ignorance.
This is a difficult one, but one that jumps out as what may have been a foretelling in the author’s own future is
“She was aware of a shrill chittering noise and shadows on the edge of sight. Well it happened to everyone sooner or later......You just had to learn to ignore them..."
DQs Day 2Starting with a Bonus question...
“They say a little knowledge is a dangerous thing, but it is not one half so bad as a lot of ignorance.” (Granny said)
First off, who are “they”? I have always wanted to know. Secondly, do you agree with “them”?
This is like the collective “we” and is generally titbits of information passed through the grapevine. The global events of the last year have highlighted that a little knowledge is dangerous and can be misinterpreted but at the same time being ignorant of certain facts is just as dangerous.
5. Esk went ahead and did not follow Granny’s advice, and thought since she had a feeling she could get into the bird’s brain, then why not do it.
When you were a kid, did you jump off the swing, or touch the hot burner? If so, give us examples.
Do you think she learned something from it, or are we looking at shades of her future University life?
I was a real tomboy growing up and would always be climbing trees and jumping over walls. Basically if someone said I couldn’t do it, my reasoning was why not and do it anyway. I still have a little of that in me where if someone questions whether I am able to do something because of my sex and size (I’m 5ft1) I go out of my way to get it done, although nowadays I know when I need help.
I think Esk’s borrowing experience is reflective of what is to come as she continues to test boundaries.
6. What do you think of Hilda and her version of Headology? What do you think of Headology in general?
Headology is reminiscent of the fortune telling and tinctures of Romany gypsies, Hilda’s description also evokes this image. Headology plays on the susceptible part of people’s perception of themselves, if they believe it’s all Mumbo Jumbo then they will get no benefit, but if they have the slightest inclination that it is real then they will always see a beneficial result to them.
7. Esk finds herself on a moving barge. Loved loved loved the resume of talents beyond washing and sweeping that Esk rattles off in an attempt to stay on the boat. What skills could you bring to the barge?
I love how TP has used the inspiration of England’s waterways in this. I can cook, keep books, read maps, and help maintain the boat.
8. Speaking of the barge, what do you think of Esk’s decision to just leave Granny? Did she mean to leave on her own adventure, or was it an accident? Do you think her matter of fact attitude is a product of her magic, or just her personality or upbringing?
I think she is very curious and leaving Granny behind was accidental. I think her matter of fact attitude is down to her personality and upbringing especially with older brothers in the mix.
Starting with a Bonus question...“They say a little knowledge is a dangerous thing, but it is not one half so bad as a lot of ignorance.” (Granny said)
First off, who are “they”? I have always wanted to know. Secondly, do you agree with “them”?
*puts on tin foil hat* Aliens! No, the government! No, the shadowy organisations behind the government!
Or as Pratchett said: They. You know, people.
5. Esk went ahead and did not follow Granny’s advice, and thought since she had a feeling she could get into the bird’s brain, then why not do it.
When you were a kid, did you jump off the swing, or touch the hot burner? If so, give us examples.
Do you think she learned something from it, or are we looking at shades of her future University life?
I'm fairly sure I did stupid stuff as a kid. I know I spent a lot of time in trees with a book (because it was too noisy in the house with two little brothers!)
As for Esk. She is who she is and it's amplified by magic. Not a recipe for a peaceful, quiet existence...
6. What do you think of Hilda and her version of Headology? What do you think of Headology in general?
Headology is awesome. It's a great mix of psychology, reading people and just plain old bluff. And Iove that there are different ways to approach it.
7. Esk finds herself on a moving barge. Loved loved loved the resume of talents beyond washing and sweeping that Esk rattles off in an attempt to stay on the boat. What skills could you bring to the barge?
Cake disposal.
8. Speaking of the barge, what do you think of Esk’s decision to just leave Granny? Did she mean to leave on her own adventure, or was it an accident? Do you think her matter of fact attitude is a product of her magic, or just her personality or upbringing?
She has seven older brothers. Aside from the fact that there would have been endless bickering and competition, she would have pretty much had to raise herself, as I doubt her parents had much time to remember she was even around after dealing with that lot.
DQs- Day 11. If you are new or relatively new to Discworld, what do you think of Pratchett’s world and writing style so far? For more experienced Pratchett readers, what are your favorite things about his writing style or Discworld in general?
Before this I'd only read Good Omens by Terry Pratchett. I actually finished Equal Rites weeks ago and couldn't get enough it. I'm happy I started there. I've recently started Color of Magic- it's a good thing I hadn't started there. He seems so forced in CoM. Equal Rites is just right. *Chef's kiss*
2. So we have our plucky heroine Esk and her witchy mentor Granny Weatherwax. What do you think of our two main characters and their relationship with each other?
It's wonderful. Granny, the reluctant teacher turn grandmother. Esk, an unwitting daughter, possibly unwanted, becomes a gifted wizard that no one wants. Beautiful.
3. A major theme is witch magic vs. wizard magic (and women vs. men), and I can’t wait to learn more about these different magical theories and world views. What do you think of this dynamic, and which type of magic are you more drawn to?
I think its perfectly apropos to the title Equal Rites. Men, allowed to do as they want. Women, stay in their lane.
4. Oh dear. Esk went a bit too far with the borrowing. What do you think is going to happen next? And what will Granny say or do?
I already finished the book, but at the time I just knew Granny would figure something out and get Esk back.
Bonus: I am really enjoying Pratchett’s wit so far. What is your favorite quote from this first bit? Mine is:
“What’s an elephant?”
“A kind of badger,” said Granny. She hadn’t maintained forest-credibility for forty years by ever admitting ignorance.
Honestly, it was all wonderful and I don't recall. I also no longer have the book. But I love how it's like a society from the middle ages and then there's an aside about some modern technology. It's brilliant.
DQd Day 2Starting with a Bonus question...
“They say a little knowledge is a dangerous thing, but it is not one half so bad as a lot of ignorance.” (Granny said)
First off, who are “they”? I have always wanted to know. Secondly, do you agree with “them”?
Bahaha I love you Jenny. We think so much alike. I've ALWAYS wondered who was they. In this instance, I'm going to say that they are old white men. And they think a little knowledge is better than a lot of ignorance...as long as you are aware you're ignorant and that you don't know what you don't know.
5. Esk went ahead and did not follow Granny’s advice, and thought since she had a feeling she could get into the bird’s brain, then why not do it.
When you were a kid, did you jump off the swing, or touch the hot burner? If so, give us examples.
Do you think she learned something from it, or are we looking at shades of her future University life?
You know, I don't think I ever did something like this instance. I generally knew what not to do and was smart enough not to do it. And I guess if there was something I did do that I shouldn't have, well, it wasn't too damaging.
6. What do you think of Hilda and her version of Headology? What do you think of Headology in general?
I just love Headology in general. The Placebo effect. It works perfectly here, especially wizard's magic. And I can't exactly recall what her specific brand of Headology was as I read this a few weeks back.
7. Esk finds herself on a moving barge. Loved loved loved the resume of talents beyond washing and sweeping that Esk rattles off in an attempt to stay on the boat. What skills could you bring to the barge?
I can make an extremely realistic pig noise. And I can function remarkably well on small amounts of sleep.
8. Speaking of the barge, what do you think of Esk’s decision to just leave Granny? Did she mean to leave on her own adventure, or was it an accident? Do you think her matter of fact attitude is a product of her magic, or just her personality or upbringing?
I think that the initial getting lost in the market was an accident. But if she wanted to she could have found her way back to Granny. So a little bit of both. And I'm going 50-50 on nature and nurture. Both who she is and how she was raised made her into the person she is. Then again, a person's environment helps form their personality...
DQs Day 2Starting with a Bonus question...
“They say a little knowledge is a dangerous thing, but it is not one half so bad as a lot of ignorance.” (Granny said)
First off, who are “they”? I have always wanted to know. Secondly, do you agree with “them”?
They are always out there, aren't they? I do agree. Everyone is initially ignorant at some point. We can all learn. Those who refuse or don't bother to try and educate themselves are dangerous. Ignorance is one thing, but you just can't fix stupid!
5. Esk went ahead and did not follow Granny’s advice, and thought since she had a feeling she could get into the bird’s brain, then why not do it.
When you were a kid, did you jump off the swing, or touch the hot burner? If so, give us examples.
Do you think she learned something from it, or are we looking at shades of her future University life?
I was more of a question authority type of kid. Tell me NOT to do something was insurance that I would try to do something! I still test out wet paint as general practice.
I do think Miss Esk learned her lesson about borrowing the eagle's brain. That must've be terror-inducing! I'm not too sure about that staff, though. It's going to get her into more & more trouble I think.
6. What do you think of Hilda and her version of Headology? What do you think of Headology in general?
It's pretty much a thing. People believe what they want to believe. Don't know that I'd call it headology though. Power of suggestion, definitely.
7. Esk finds herself on a moving barge. Loved loved loved the resume of talents beyond washing and sweeping that Esk rattles off in an attempt to stay on the boat. What skills could you bring to the barge?
Cooking, cleaning, child-minding, animal husbandry, stand-up comedy, karaoke. You know, just the usual.
8. Speaking of the barge, what do you think of Esk’s decision to just leave Granny? Did she mean to leave on her own adventure, or was it an accident? Do you think her matter of fact attitude is a product of her magic, or just her personality or upbringing?
She does have quite a strong personality for one so young. She has no idea how to find Granny, so it's naturally better to keep moving forward & trusting Granny to find her.
Starting with a Bonus question...“They say a little knowledge is a dangerous thing, but it is not one half so bad as a lot of ignorance.” (Granny said)
First off, who are “they”? I have always wanted to know. Secondly, do you agree with “them”?
I guess "they" is like everyone, as in "we, all of us"? I have no idea but that's what I got out of it. Sorry to not have a very insightful answer here, haha.
5. Esk went ahead and did not follow Granny’s advice, and thought since she had a feeling she could get into the bird’s brain, then why not do it.
When you were a kid, did you jump off the swing, or touch the hot burner? If so, give us examples.
Do you think she learned something from it, or are we looking at shades of her future University life?
I did definitely jump off the swing but was never told not to. I also got stuck in trees a lot, but it was mostly my shoes that got stuck between branches and not myself.
It looks like she learned from it, but maybe she will forget about how frightened she was as time goes by.
6. What do you think of Hilda and her version of Headology? What do you think of Headology in general?
I think it's cool. I've gotten more into it this past year and I find it really interesting.
7. Esk finds herself on a moving barge. Loved loved loved the resume of talents beyond washing and sweeping that Esk rattles off in an attempt to stay on the boat. What skills could you bring to the barge?
Oh wow, like not much. I suck at cooking, but I could probably wash and prepare the food I guess? Peel potatoes and whatnot. I can knit too, but not very well.
8. Speaking of the barge, what do you think of Esk’s decision to just leave Granny? Did she mean to leave on her own adventure, or was it an accident? Do you think her matter of fact attitude is a product of her magic, or just her personality or upbringing?
I would not just run away from my family in a strange bigger town at the age of nine, haha. I think it was an accident that she ended up sleeping somewhere that would have moved when she woke up, but at the same time, she didn't look like she was really opposed after she woke up either. I think her attitude is a mix of growing up the youngest of only boys (I can attest, lol). The magic probably also have something to do with it, as she gets a lot of help from the staff when things maybe should have been harder for her.
Mod
Starting with a Bonus question...
“They say a little knowledge is a dangerous thing, but it is not one half so bad as a lot of ignorance.” (Granny said)
First off, who are “they”? I have always wanted to know. Secondly, do you agree with “them”?
They - people, y'know.
5. Esk went ahead and did not follow Granny’s advice, and thought since she had a feeling she could get into the bird’s brain, then why not do it.
When you were a kid, did you jump off the swing, or touch the hot burner? If so, give us examples.
Do you think she learned something from it, or are we looking at shades of her future University life?
She certainly learnt to think more carefully about magic - coupled with the epic destruction of Granny's hearth, but she also had Granny to help rescue her, using practical witchy approaches, that wizards (all jommetry, of course) are unlikely to do.
6. What do you think of Hilta and her version of Headology? What do you think of Headology in general?
Headology is a brilliant philosophy. I think the fact that it changes to fit the context is necessary - the reliance on the power of belief in They means that it has to change, 'cos the group think in a small self-reliant mountain village is going to be different to that of a small town and also of a large city.
7. Esk finds herself on a moving barge. Loved loved loved the resume of talents beyond washing and sweeping that Esk rattles off in an attempt to stay on the boat. What skills could you bring to the barge?
Nothing half as impressive!
I'd forgotten about the Liar, which was pleasing. But it did also make me realise that the footnotes were absent so far (it struck me as odd that the snippet about the first lie told was in the main text, when it would have fitted well as a footnote too.)
8. Speaking of the barge, what do you think of Esk’s decision to just leave Granny? Did she mean to leave on her own adventure, or was it an accident? Do you think her matter of fact attitude is a product of her magic, or just her personality or upbringing?
I don't think she meant to leave on her own, but the magic wants to get to the UU ASAP, so it's working to get her there. I think her attitude is very much personality and upbringing.
DQ - Day 2Starting with a Bonus question...
“They say a little knowledge is a dangerous thing, but it is not one half so bad as a lot of ignorance.” (Granny said)
First off, who are “they”? I have always wanted to know. Secondly, do you agree with “them”?
I always assumed it was one of those sayings like "a bird in the hand is worth two in the bush." I agree it is dangerous IF the person then thinks he or she is well educated on the topic. Because then they are not willing to change or learn more. However, gaining a little knowledge on the path to more knowledge is great.
5. Esk went ahead and did not follow Granny’s advice, and thought since she had a feeling she could get into the bird’s brain, then why not do it.
When you were a kid, did you jump off the swing, or touch the hot burner? If so, give us examples.
Do you think she learned something from it, or are we looking at shades of her future University life?
I wasn't super risky - but if there was a rule
I thought was dumb, I'd break it. Like I once wore shorts into the boys dorm because I thought it'd be funny and that it was a dumb rule. But, of course, I got into big trouble. I still think it was a dumb rule though.
I think Esk goes by instincts a lot and is impulsive. I think she'll still have to do that at university.
6. What do you think of Hilda and her version of Headology? What do you think of Headology in general?
Headology in general is like placebos or maybe faith. Convincing someone that something will work. Her version is pretty good - all of the mystery! I liked it.
7. Esk finds herself on a moving barge. Loved loved loved the resume of talents beyond washing and sweeping that Esk rattles off in an attempt to stay on the boat. What skills could you bring to the barge? My mind would go blank and they'd kick me off. I'm good at math.... I also liked how much Esk helped with bargaining in the town and stuff.
8. Speaking of the barge, what do you think of Esk’s decision to just leave Granny? Did she mean to leave on her own adventure, or was it an accident? Do you think her matter of fact attitude is a product of her magic, or just her personality or upbringing? I think her attitude is her upbringing, and the fact the staff has always taken care of here. I think while leaving Granny was accidental, Esk just wasn't too worried.
Ding Ding Ding!!!!! And both Sammy and Sarah arrived at the correct answer to my bonus question. I always thought "they" were aliens, when wearing the tinfoil, and Old White Men, when wearing no hat at all.I also want to point out how important the skills question is, as I am compiling a list for who to team up with when the zombie apocalypse happens.
Just saying.
Jenny wrote: "Ding Ding Ding!!!!! And both Sammy and Sarah arrived at the correct answer to my bonus question. I always thought "they" were aliens, when wearing the tinfoil, and Old White Men, when wearing no ha..."If it's zombies we're fighting, gimme a baseball bat and let me attem!
*has an embarrassing amount of hours playing 7 Days to Die*
Actually, Terry Pratchett later explained in more details about them and the aliens whose existence were hushed up by the governments of DW as well.In "Jingo" the issue of THEM is elaborated further:
"Sergeant Colon had had a broad education. He’d been to the School of My Dad Always Said, the College of It Stands to Reason, and was now a postgraduate student at the University of What Some Bloke In the Pub Told Me."
DQs Day 2Starting with a Bonus question...
“They say a little knowledge is a dangerous thing, but it is not one half so bad as a lot of ignorance.” (Granny said)
First off, who are “they”? I have always wanted to know. Secondly, do you agree with “them”?
I have always known that ignorance can be cured with a little bit of knowledge, but as Lauri mentioned above, stupid is incurable.
The They reference always just makes me a bit ornery. If. you can't quote your sources, don't use them. I wish that was a rule that politicians would follow.
Also, yes, They are aliens, and perhaps don't want to be quoted.
5. Esk went ahead and did not follow Granny’s advice, and thought since she had a feeling she could get into the bird’s brain, then why not do it.
When you were a kid, did you jump off the swing, or touch the hot burner? If so, give us examples.
Do you think she learned something from it, or are we looking at shades of her future University life?
I did jump off the swing at its highest point. Ow. I did not put my finger in the fan blades, even tough I really wanted to, as my grandpa was missing a finger, and he told me that it was caused by the fan. I believed him. If I was told not to do something, I needed a good reason, or I would try it. My parents learned early that reverse psychology worked better on me.
6. What do you think of Hilda and her version of Headology? What do you think of Headology in general?
I love the term. The practice is one of the big things wrong with humans. Believing without questioning has led us down some dark paths. But, the way it is used in the story is charming.
7. Esk finds herself on a moving barge. Loved loved loved the resume of talents beyond washing and sweeping that Esk rattles off in an attempt to stay on the boat. What skills could you bring to the barge?
I can cook, argue, clean (while grumbling about it), sew, knit, play piano (surely there would be a piano), build small things, use power tools, and point out when something is being done wrong.
8. Speaking of the barge, what do you think of Esk’s decision to just leave Granny? Did she mean to leave on her own adventure, or was it an accident? Do you think her matter of fact attitude is a product of her magic, or just her personality or upbringing?
I think her curiosity got the better of her, and she saw nothing wrong with wandering off. I did not grow up with brothers, nor do I have a magic staff, but I do think both of those things are shaping her personality at this point.
Melindam wrote: "Actually, Terry Pratchett later explained in more details about them and the aliens whose existence were hushed up by the governments of DW as well.In "Jingo" the issue of THEM is elaborated furt..."
If he were on earth, the next logical step would be a PHD in "I saw it on facebook" :D
Melindam wrote: "Actually, Terry Pratchett later explained in more details about them and the aliens whose existence were hushed up by the governments of DW as well.In "Jingo" the issue of THEM is elaborated furt..."
Bloody brilliant!!!!
I am so glad that I am finally becoming a Discworld person. The more I find out about the world and its creator, the bigger my smile gets.
DQs - Day 1
1. If you are new or relatively new to Discworld, what do you think of Pratchett’s world and writing style so far? For more experienced Pratchett readers, what are your favorite things about his writing style or Discworld in general?
Flatearthers rejoice! Your prayers have been answered! :D
Newbie here and I am extremely pleased that I came across this book series because I am quite enjoying myself! I love the witty and intelligent remarks and his description of the world itself are informative and hilarious.
2. So we have our plucky heroine Esk and her witchy mentor Granny Weatherwax. What do you think of our two main characters and their relationship with each other?
Esk is pretty strong-willed, inquisitive and doesn't take no for an answer. I like her. I think she's going to make a great wizard!
Granny Weatherwax seems to be set in her ways but is actually quite openminded after careful deliberation. She is also patient and tries to bring herself down to Esk's level even though she clearly has no experience handing a child Esk's age and with her power.
3. A major theme is witch magic vs. wizard magic (and women vs. men), and I can’t wait to learn more about these different magical theories and world views. What do you think of this dynamic, and which type of magic are you more drawn to?
I think the witch vs. wizard magic can be compared to women's vs. men's occupations. How women are not cut out to do some things and same goes for men. That was even brought up by Granny when she said that women couldn't be blacksmiths but Esk wondered why not when she could see herself being able to do what she sees her father do. It would be interesting to see how that notion is challenged by Esk.
Witch magic sounds cool. It's down to earth but powerful. I think I would be more drawn to wizard magic though because it's got more flair. You can blame Harry Potter for this.
4. Oh dear. Esk went a bit too far with the borrowing. What do you think is going to happen next? And what will Granny say or do?
She did! I totally expected that with Esk being so strong-willed. As Granny had mentioned before, when you try to take over, you might end up losing yourself. That's probably goning to happen to Esk. She might start acting more like an eagle and less like a human.
I think Granny will be cross but very worried when Esk fails to return to her body. She'll try everything to bring her back and use that experience as caution whenever Esk tries to do something that's not recommended.
Bonus: I am really enjoying Pratchett’s wit so far. What is your favorite quote from this first bit? Mine is:
“What’s an elephant?”
“A kind of badger,” said Granny. She hadn’t maintained forest-credibility for forty years by ever admitting ignorance.
This is my favourite quote as well! I laughed out loud while reading this!
Jenny wrote: "Bloody brilliant!!!!I am so glad that I am finally becoming a Discworld person. The more I find out about the world and its creator, the bigger my smile gets."
It just proves you have excellent taste.
Sir PTerry was one of a kind.
Jenny, THEY always knew you'd finally realise it!!
DQs - Day 1I read this a couple of weeks ago because it fit so perfectly for another challenge... but I'm trying to answer the questions based on what I felt or knew at the point in the story the questions are set.
1. If you are new or relatively new to Discworld, what do you think of Pratchett’s world and writing style so far? For more experienced Pratchett readers, what are your favorite things about his writing style or Discworld in general?
I am new here, to Discworld. This is not my preferred genre - non-romance fantasy - so I was hesitant going in. The world is so completely different than anything current construct in my mind that it takes some getting used. I'm not hating it but I'm not in love either. Yet.
2. So we have our plucky heroine Esk and her witchy mentor Granny Weatherwax. What do you think of our two main characters and their relationship with each other?
I actually like Granny, she says it like it is. I think she is beginning to understand she is out of her depth with Esk's powers. Esk has no idea what she has and Granny isn't really being upfront about it which I don't think is fair to Esk.
3. A major theme is witch magic vs. wizard magic (and women vs. men), and I can’t wait to learn more about these different magical theories and world views. What do you think of this dynamic, and which type of magic are you more drawn to?
We've barely started to delve into it so I'm not sure I can fully say which I'm more drawn too. I feel like at this point Granny is not being open-minded and could cause more harm than good if she isn't careful with Esk.
4. Oh dear. Esk went a bit too far with the borrowing. What do you think is going to happen next? And what will Granny say or do?
I would hope Esk learning her lesson and will listen to Granny more carefully.
Bonus: I am really enjoying Pratchett’s wit so far. What is your favorite quote from this first bit? Mine is:
“What’s an elephant?”
“A kind of badger,” said Granny. She hadn’t maintained forest-credibility for forty years by ever admitting ignorance.
I liked this quote more because it represents Granny's 'relationship' with the staff...
"Activity, movement, liveliness—all these words would be completely inaccurate descriptions of the staff’s response.
Granny scratched her chin. She remembered the little lesson all children get taught: what’s the magic word?
“Please?” she suggested."
DQ - Day 2 Starting with a Bonus question...
“They say a little knowledge is a dangerous thing, but it is not one half so bad as a lot of ignorance.” (Granny said)
First off, who are “they”? I have always wanted to know. Secondly, do you agree with “them”?
I think TP has a quote on who they are but I could not find it. Anyways, I think Granny likely uses they for Granny says and I agree. Sometimes a little knowledge is all that is needed for you to figure out that you know little versus assuming you already know everything.
5. Esk went ahead and did not follow Granny’s advice, and thought since she had a feeling she could get into the bird’s brain, then why not do it.
When you were a kid, did you jump off the swing, or touch the hot burner? If so, give us examples.
Do you think she learned something from it, or are we looking at shades of her future University life?
I jumped off things and climbed things. I used to try to ride the sheep like they were a pony and otherwise, tried new things but I do not remember them being banned (my mother may have a different memory on this). Also, I doubt Esk will change unless she ends up with a productive direction to channel that energy (also re-read).
6. What do you think of Hilda and her version of Headology? What do you think of Headology in general?
Headology in getting someone to buy in so that they try. I like how it is flexible to the situation.
7. Esk finds herself on a moving barge. Loved loved loved the resume of talents beyond washing and sweeping that Esk rattles off in an attempt to stay on the boat. What skills could you bring to the barge? Unless they have livestock, I am less useful. I bake, make jams and can clean and butcher some livestock/chicken/fish if you are not too picky on looks.
8. Speaking of the barge, what do you think of Esk’s decision to just leave Granny? Did she mean to leave on her own adventure, or was it an accident? Do you think her matter of fact attitude is a product of her magic, or just her personality or upbringing? I think the opportunity presented itself and she went with it. She had a pretty independent upbringing and personality so this is where life has taken her.
DQs Day 2Starting with a Bonus question...
“They say a little knowledge is a dangerous thing, but it is not one half so bad as a lot of ignorance.” (Granny said)
First off, who are “they”? I have always wanted to know. Secondly, do you agree with “them”?
They is general "everyone", and I've heard that expression, well variations of it. I agree with it to a point - all knowledge is usually good, but if you only know a little about a subject, you can cause confusion or twist things in ignorance. The key is to keep learning.
5. Esk went ahead and did not follow Granny’s advice, and thought since she had a feeling she could get into the bird’s brain, then why not do it.
When you were a kid, did you jump off the swing, or touch the hot burner? If so, give us examples.
Do you think she learned something from it, or are we looking at shades of her future University life?
I have a memory STILL of accidentally touching the tip of a chicken pot pie out of the oven when I was tiny and being babysat. It hurt! But no, I usually listened to advice and caution as a kid when it came to doing daring stunts, I was paranoid and anxious.
6. What do you think of Hilda and her version of Headology? What do you think of Headology in general?
I dig the name and approve. It's useful for the book and I like the idea of using your brain first and foremost before any magic ability.
7. Esk finds herself on a moving barge. Loved loved loved the resume of talents beyond washing and sweeping that Esk rattles off in an attempt to stay on the boat. What skills could you bring to the barge?
Errrr....cooking small appetizers and tea treats out of little is a weird thing I like to do that I'm good at, but not much is coming to mind. Eek.
8. Speaking of the barge, what do you think of Esk’s decision to just leave Granny? Did she mean to leave on her own adventure, or was it an accident? Do you think her matter of fact attitude is a product of her magic, or just her personality or upbringing?
I think its her stubborn personality in some part, but she mainly seems to live in her head in a way and doesn't seem to consider Granny all that much really - so partly just wandering off without paying much attention.
DQs Day 2Starting with a Bonus question...
“They say a little knowledge is a dangerous thing, but it is not one half so bad as a lot of ignorance.” (Granny said)
First off, who are “they”? I have always wanted to know. Secondly, do you agree with “them”?
I guess ‘they’ just means people. Things that are commonly said but nobody knows where is started.
In this particular case I agree with ‘them’. Little knowledge might be dangerous, I have always found it better than complete ignorance.
5. Esk went ahead and did not follow Granny’s advice, and thought since she had a feeling she could get into the bird’s brain, then why not do it.
When you were a kid, did you jump off the swing, or touch the hot burner? If so, give us examples.
Do you think she learned something from it, or are we looking at shades of her future University life?
I was what can be defined as an obedient kid. Most of my non-compliance were limited to when someone told me some book was not suitable for me and I made it a point to read it (mostly hiding it under some inconspicuous cover).
I think she learned to be cautious, but at the same time it does show her tendency to take matter in her own hands and not accepting things without trying it, which keeps showing up in her behaviour.
6. What do you think of Hilda and her version of Headology? What do you think of Headology in general?
Headology is practically psychology and using it to one’s advantage. People tend to believe what they want to believe and placebo effect is anyway a scientific fact.
7. Esk finds herself on a moving barge. Loved loved loved the resume of talents beyond washing and sweeping that Esk rattles off in an attempt to stay on the boat. What skills could you bring to the barge?
Not much I guess. Cooking and help with accounts may be. I could help with the lying too in their world.
8. Speaking of the barge, what do you think of Esk’s decision to just leave Granny? Did she mean to leave on her own adventure, or was it an accident? Do you think her matter of fact attitude is a product of her magic, or just her personality or upbringing?
Esk leaving Granny seemed more of an accidental event. But her attitude towards it is possibly a combination of her personality and upbringing. She has an adventurous soul and Granny is quite a role model of strong independent person,
DQs Day 2Starting with a Bonus question...
“They say a little knowledge is a dangerous thing, but it is not one half so bad as a lot of ignorance.” (Granny said)
First off, who are “they”? I have always wanted to know. Secondly, do you agree with “them”?
I think “they”is Granny, but she's not going to claims the wisdom she imparts.
5. Esk went ahead and did not follow Granny’s advice, and thought since she had a feeling she could get into the bird’s brain, then why not do it.
When you were a kid, did you jump off the swing, or touch the hot burner? If so, give us examples.
Do you think she learned something from it, or are we looking at shades of her future University life?
She learnt from the experience and I'm sure next time, she'll try and do better. I think shel'll throw herself into learning at university.
6. What do you think of Hilda and her version of Headology? What do you think of Headology in general?
It's a good name for what it is.
7. Esk finds herself on a moving barge. Loved loved loved the resume of talents beyond washing and sweeping that Esk rattles off in an attempt to stay on the boat. What skills could you bring to the barge?
I like how she offered to help. I don't think I'd have any skills to help.
8. Speaking of the barge, what do you think of Esk’s decision to just leave Granny? Did she mean to leave on her own adventure, or was it an accident? Do you think her matter of fact attitude is a product of her magic, or just her personality or upbringing?
I think her leaving Granny was an accidental, but I think she is just going with the Magic. Plus she's seems pretty self sufficient, so she not bothered that she on her own.
DQs Day 1:1. If you are new or relatively new to Discworld, what do you think of Pratchett’s world and writing style so far? For more experienced Pratchett readers, what are your favorite things about his writing style or Discworld in general?
Being fairly new, I enjoy his spin on the obvious but overlooked. While often it is with humor, it is also with a bit of an edge which I am enjoying.
2. So we have our plucky heroine Esk and her witchy mentor Granny Weatherwax. What do you think of our two main characters and their relationship with each other?
They seem to compliment each other in a way that aids the storyline. While at times predictable, it’s always enlightening to their characters.
3. A major theme is witch magic vs. wizard magic (and women vs. men), and I can’t wait to learn more about these different magical theories and world views. What do you think of this dynamic, and which type of magic are you more drawn to?
I haven’t seen much wizard magic yet, so I am anticipating that. I love how the witch magic is not just magic, but a large mix of ‘headology’. The battle of the sexes is obviously going to be won by the witches on that playing field! I think I would prefer to be Esk, trained in the theories of witchcraft and holding the power of the magicians. At least that sounds promising.
4. Oh dear. Esk went a bit too far with the borrowing. What do you think is going to happen next? And what will Granny say or do?
I think Granny will remain calm and get the job done, saving and teaching Esk along the way.
Bonus: I am really enjoying Pratchett’s wit so far. What is your favorite quote from this first bit?
For me, right from the first pages it gave a glimpse of how Pratchett can make unusual what we see as common. My very first laugh came with: “Often there is no more than a little plaque to reveal that , against all gynecological probability, someone very famous was born halfway up a wall.”
Nothing But Reading Challenges
Books mentioned in this topic
Ramona the Pest (other topics)The Color of Magic (other topics)
Wyrd Sisters (other topics)
Cujo (other topics)
Raising Steam (other topics)
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1. If you are new or relatively new to Discworld, what do you think of Pratchett’s world and writing style so far? For more experienced Pratchett readers, what are your favorite things about his writing style or Discworld in general?
I am a long-time fan. Like Sammy I love that his books are so layered, but that they wear it lightly. Writing books that are funny and wise with characters that you love is really hard, but Pratchett makes it look effortless. I love that all his books have a massive underpinning of humanity - an assumption that a good world is one that embraces the principles of equality and diversity and that recognises that everyone is going to fail, but that the trying is essential.
2. So we have our plucky heroine Esk and her witchy mentor Granny Weatherwax. What do you think of our two main characters and their relationship with each other?
Granny W is an absolute favourite character, and I enjoy Esk too. I like the relationship - Granny struggling to work out what level to engage Esk on, and then getting on with her method of imparting knowledge. Like Sammy said, the relationship is one we've seen in millions of different books and films: wisdom ignored because the young 'un can't believe the oldster knows what they are talking about, but it works; I also like that Esk is pushing at Granny's boundaries, with her flashes imparted from the magic in her.
3. A major theme is witch magic vs. wizard magic (and women vs. men), and I can’t wait to learn more about these different magical theories and world views. What do you think of this dynamic, and which type of magic are you more drawn to?
I like the dynamic. I like (oddly) that Granny is shown as being so resistant to Esk's wizard magic - it makes her real and reminds us that not everyone finds it obvious that parity is the answer.
4. Oh dear. Esk went a bit too far with the borrowing. What do you think is going to happen next? And what will Granny say or do?
I loved the battle with the staff, Granny being determined to make it behave how she wants it too!
I shall be silent on this one.
Bonus: I am really enjoying Pratchett’s wit so far. What is your favorite quote from this first bit? Mine is:
“What’s an elephant?”
“A kind of badger,” said Granny. She hadn’t maintained forest-credibility for forty years by ever admitting ignorance.
I loved this quote too, and stand by her principle that, if you state something firmly enough no one is likely to challenge you.
I also like the line Tammie and Ushashi pulled out "If a thing's worth doing it's worth doing badly" - an attempt to solve is better than ignoring the issue.