Chad B. (buzzkill007) reviewed A Breath of Fresh Air on 1/6/2009

Helpful Score: 2

One of the things I love about the Discworld series is that you don't really have to read them in order. Each book pretty much stands on its own. Going Postal is the first Discworld book I've read in a while, and I must say it's a good one. Sir Terry is in top form. The narrative flows well (I couldn't put it down). The characters are well-imagined with typical Discworld quirkiness. Fans of the series will note a few differences between this and previous books. First, the book is broken up into actual chapters with short summaries preceding them (reminiscent of "Three Men in a Boat (to Say Nothing of the Dog)"). Second, while present, Pratchett's use of footnotes is considerably less in this volume. Third, there is no mention whatsoever of The Great A'Tuin, and I don't recall there even being a mention of "The Disc". That's not a complaint, just something that fans of the series will probably take note of. Newcomers to the series will probably wonder why the series is called "Discworld". The cast of "usual suspects" is downplayed in this book, but still very present. Of those characters, the Patrician (Vetinari) plays the largest role. Death shows up only once. Archchancellor Ridcully plays a small role. Carrot shows up once. Some of the others in the Watch are also mentioned - notably Corporal Nobbs, Vimes and Angua (though she is only referred to as "the werewolf"). Despite the near absence of these characters, the new characters introduced are fun and interesting. I would very much like to see their re-appearance in future volumes (particularly the main protagonist, Moist Von Lipwig and the wonderful Adora Belle Dearheart).

Bottom line: I loved this book! I've been reading more serious fare lately, and was feeling like I needed something a little more light-hearted. This book reminded me of why I love this series so much. If you're a fan, I have little doubt that you will love this one. If you are thinking about trying the series out, this is a decent entry point.

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