A review by orionmerlin
Wyrd Sisters by Terry Pratchett

adventurous funny lighthearted medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.25

Characters: 9/10
The characters in Wyrd Sisters are memorable and richly crafted. Granny Weatherwax, Nanny Ogg, and Magrat Garlick are distinct, multi-dimensional, and utterly delightful to follow. Secondary characters, like the ghostly King Verence or the bumbling Duke and Duchess, are colorful and impactful without overshadowing the main trio. Pratchett’s ability to infuse humor and depth into even minor characters ensures they all feel integral to the story. Each personality is vivid and easy to describe, from Granny’s commanding presence to Magrat’s endearing awkwardness.
Atmosphere/Setting: 8/10
The setting, a mix of the Discworld’s magical absurdity and a Shakespearean-inspired kingdom, is immersive and vividly described. I could easily picture the misty moors, the dramatic theatrical scenes, and the eerie yet cozy atmosphere of the witches’ cottage. The world-building is detailed but never overwhelming, and the setting effectively mirrors the story’s tone and themes. Some of the satire landed better for me when I recognized the Shakespearean tropes it references.
Writing Style: 9/10
Terry Pratchett’s prose is sharp, witty, and effortlessly engaging. His blend of humor, satire, and clever wordplay makes Wyrd Sisters a joy to read. The dialogue sparkles with personality, and the narrative voice is distinctive and confident. The balance between humor and poignancy is masterful, making the book both funny and thought-provoking. I found the writing style so compelling that I immediately wanted to dive into more of Pratchett’s works.
Plot: 8/10
The plot is a brilliant mix of Shakespearean parody and original storytelling. The pacing is steady, with no noticeable drag, and the twists are satisfying without being over-complicated. Pratchett’s handling of tropes like mistaken identities, ghostly revenge, and theatrical intrigue feels fresh and exciting. While I didn’t find it the most groundbreaking plot in Discworld, it’s cleverly constructed and thoroughly entertaining.
Intrigue: 8/10
The book intrigued me and pulled me along with its humor, compelling characters, and engaging twists. The story’s evolution kept me invested, especially in how the witches would solve the kingdom’s chaos. It wasn’t an edge-of-my-seat thriller, but the charm and cleverness of the narrative made it hard to put down.
Logic/Relationships: 9/10
The characters’ motives were clear and aligned with their personalities. The magic and world-building, while fantastical, operated within consistent and understandable rules. The relationships, particularly between the witches, were wonderfully developed and added emotional depth to the story. I felt that Pratchett expertly wove these elements into a seamless narrative that felt cohesive and believable within the Discworld’s unique logic.
Enjoyment: 9/10
I thoroughly enjoyed Wyrd Sisters from start to finish. Its humor, heart, and cleverness ensured that the experience was consistently delightful. Whether you’re a longtime Discworld fan or a newcomer, this book delivers a satisfying and entertaining journey.