In Witches Abroad, Terry Pratchett gives folklore and fairytales the witty treatment Shakespeare’s works received in Wyrd Sisters, and it’s just as much fun. Maybe even a tad more. This time, the witches travel to the far away swamp land of Genua to stop a fairytale wedding. As the signature “Other One” in the coven, this time Magrat takes on the role of fairy godmother. Granny Weatherwax takes on the role of the good witch (maybe?). And Nanny Ogg? Well she makes for a very entertaining tourist and travel writer. Even Greebo has quite a transformation…
Witches Abroad is dripping with references to classic fairytales and fantasy stories, including Cinderella, Little Red Riding Hood, The Frog Prince, Snow White, Sleeping Beauty, The Wizard of Oz, Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland, and even a hilarious twist on The Lord of the Rings. This book also expands the world of Discworld’s witches, introducing us to Mrs. Gogol, the voodoo witch, Legba, her black cockerel, and her zombie henchman, Saturday. Considering this book comes right after Reaper Man, it seems Pratchett had a particular preoccupation with weird fowl and the undead around this time. I’m certainly not complaining!
My only real complaint about Witches Abroad is the ending. Everything wraps up a bit too quickly and without any big emotional or comedic punch. I expected a bit more from the showdown between Granny and Lilith. Regardless, Witches Abroad is definitely in the upper tier of Discworld books.
The Once and Future Lit 