The Truth

Terry Pratchett

I've enjoyed it. The first half has parts that are painfully funny (in all senses of the word "painfully"). And then it gets down to serious stuff. And then he ties it all together.

The basic story is of a coup foiled by the budding free press of Ankh-Morpork (sp? don't have it here with me). Some heaving bosoms (largely ignored by humans and dwarfs, but distracting to the vampires). Filled with odd-ball allusions, puns and assorted wordplay. Some weird drug use (snorting chalk, drain cleaners, and various heavy metals). Some bizarre violence. On the whole, a rather good Discworld book. I enjoyed this one more than Carpe Jugulum.

My eleven year old daughter was wondering what kind of book was making me laugh so hard and now wants to read it. And it might not be bad for her - funny stuff, but also some semi-serious thoughts about freedom of the press, etc. (That last sounds like a weak attempt at rationalization). My wife is concerned about making drug use too attractive. (although I'm not sure the picture painted of the guy who engested drain cleaner would be called "attractive".) We'll see.