Sir Terry of Pratchett
Terry Pratchett, author of the impossibly awesome “Discworld” comic fantasy novels, has had a rough year, what with being diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer’s disease. But he ended the year on an up note, as he was made a knight a few days ago.
Terry Pratchett, the author of the Discworld series of novels that have sold more than 55 million copies worldwide, said he was “stunned, in a good way” after receiving a knighthood in the New Year’s Honours List.
The 60-year-old writer, below, whose first book was published in 1971, told The Independent last night: “I’m having difficulty fitting it into my head. I’m very pleased indeed. It cheers me up no end.” He added: “It will also impress some of my American friends, who started calling me ‘Sir’ after I received my MBE, which was a little embarrassing.”
Though he has written works of science fiction and horror, Pratchett’s greatest creation came with his first novel set in Discworld, a fantasy realm balanced on the backs of four elephants, which themselves stand atop a huge turtle.
“The Discworld series has been going on quietly but successfully for a long time now. I’ve gone all over the world with it,” he said.
“I’m glad a genre writer has got a knighthood, but stunned that it was me.”
Couldn’t happen to a nicer or cooler guy. And if you haven’t started reading Pratchett’s books yet, it’s long past time for you to get started…
Sado Said,
January 2, 2009 @ 7:50 am
From what I’ve read, he’s actually experiencing symptoms and having difficulty keeping things straight. I suppose that’s what led him to the doctors, but every time I hear about “Early Onset Alzheimers”, you always think there’s a little more time before things get bad.
Quite a shame that such a funny, intelligent man would get struck with such an illness. Read his stuff. Since it’s seasonal, try to find the BBC mini-series “Hogfather”.
Scott Slemmons Said,
January 2, 2009 @ 8:37 am
It’s a shame that *anyone* gets Alzheimers.
If I were recommending my favorite Pratchett novels, I think I’d go with “Sourcery,” “Mort,” “Small Gods,” “Lords and Ladies,” “Soul Music,” “Maskerade,” and “Good Omens,” his non-Discworld novel with Neil Gaiman. I’ve never seen the BBC series, though I’ve got it on my wishlist.
Sado Said,
January 2, 2009 @ 12:26 pm
My family has Issues with Alzheimers, so I know what you mean. My great-aunt has it, but she’s at least functional…even if she currently has the personality of a mischievous 10 year old.
Scott Slemmons Said,
January 2, 2009 @ 3:02 pm
Sympathies and empathies, Sado. My great-aunt had it. I wouldn’t wish it on anyone at all.