Saturday, January 24, 2015

Wee Free Men: 4 Stars



Wee Free Men (A Discworld Novel) by Terry Pratchett

Tiffany Aching is a 9-year-old girl who wants to be a witch. This isn't a particularly surprising career avenue since Tiffany has always been a bit peculiar. Besides reading the dictionary like a novel, Tiffany can also see things that others cannot. This includes the Nac Mac Feegles, which are small blue fairies with Scottish accents who like to fight. They also have odd names like Rob Anybody, Daft Wullie, and No'-As-Big-As-Medium-Sized-Jock-But-Bigger-than-Wee-Jock Jock.  

After attempting to meet a witch and being left with only a talking toad, Tiffany's baby brother is kidnapped by an evil queen and Tiffany must save him. With the help of the Nac Mac Feegles, Tiffany sets off on an adventure, entering realms of the world she never new existed. 

This is one of the weirdest novels I have ever read, but considering that I learned that Terry Pratchett was a little odd after reading Good Omens, I was not surprised. This book is one of his many Discworld novels, but the first that included Tiffany Aching and was aimed for a younger audience. 

Tiffany is a wonderful character with a unique and bold personality. Being only 9, she knows that she has a lot to learn about the world, but when she thinks she is right, she doesn't hold back.  Armed with only a frying pan, she is compelled to complete her journey no matter the risks to make her granny proud. She was funny and quirky and happy to be different. I think she is an excellent role model for any young girl that might read this book. 

The book was filled with clever jokes and silliness. While I can see why some may find this too weird, I loved it. The Nac Mac Feegles add a huge helping of humor that just makes you want to giggle. I would recommend this book to anyone with an open mind. 

Rating: G 

Recommended for those who enjoy: quirky writing, fantasy, sassy female protagonists.

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