Equal Rites

by Terry Pratchett
Equal Rites cover
Good Books rating 3.94
Fantasy
Buy online
Waterstones
Paperback • £10.99 Hardback • £14.99
Amazon
Format/Price Check
Technical
  • ID: 8984
  • Added: 2025-12-22
  • Updated: 2025-12-30
  • ISBN: 9780552131056
  • Publisher: Random House
  • Published: 1987-01-01
  • Formats: 3
  • Reviews: 4

Equal Rites introduces us to a fantastical world where magic is a male-dominated domain, and women are barred from becoming wizards. The story begins with the death of a male infant, and the passing of his magical birthright to his infant daughter, Eskarina Smith. Granny Weatherwax, a witch, takes it upon herself to deliver the baby's staff to her, setting the stage for a series of magical misadventures. Esk, as she is known, grows up in a world that refuses to acknowledge her magical abilities. With the help of Granny Weatherwax and the wizards of Unseen University, Esk must navigate a society that seeks to suppress her magic. The novel is a delightful blend of humor, fantasy, and social commentary, exploring themes of gender equality and the absurdities of tradition.

Reviews
Maria's Corner · Maria · 2025-12-22
enjoyable 4.00

Granny Weatherwax is a standout character, and the book is a pivotal entry in the Witches storyline. It introduces important themes and characters to the series.

Maria emphasizes that Granny Weatherwax is a memorable addition to the series, bringing a unique perspective and charm. The book is seen as a crucial part of the Witches storyline, setting the stage for future developments. Maria appreciates the introduction of significant themes and characters that enrich the Discworld series.

Quick quotes

    Equal Rites is the third entry in the Discworld series and the first one in the Witches storyline.

    Its biggest contribution to the series is definitely Granny Weatherwax.

Reddit - r/Fantasy · 2025-12-22
amusing 3.00

The book features a memorable dirty joke and Esk faces significant challenges. It's a book that is seldom reread but leaves a lasting impression.

This review highlights a particular favourite dirty joke from the book, which adds a layer of humour that is characteristic of Pratchett's writing. The reviewer notes that Esk, the protagonist, faces a lot of adversity, which makes her journey compelling. While it's not a book they revisit often, it has left a mark with its unique blend of humour and social commentary.

Quick quotes

    Equal Rites is one I seldom reread, but it still has one of my favourite early Pratchett dirty jokes in it.

    Esk definitely gets hard done by, but her journey is compelling.

Cassandra C. Stirling · Cassandra C. Stirling · 2021-06-28
whimsical 4.50

The book is a whimsical tale with a fun fantasy world and a plucky heroine. It features a sassy companion and a quest adventure, with an underlying message about equality.

Cassandra C. Stirling describes Equal Rites as a delightful and whimsical tale that captures the essence of Pratchett's unique storytelling. The reviewer praises the fun fantasy world and the plucky heroine, Esk, who is accompanied by a sassy companion. The quest adventure is engaging, and the underlying message about equality adds depth to the story. The reviewer finds the book to be a joyful read that combines humour and social commentary.

Quick quotes

    This whimsical tale has it all – a fun fantasy world, a plucky heroine and a sassy companion, a quest adventure, and an underlying message about the equality of the sexes.

    Equal Rites is a book that is both entertaining and thought-provoking.

Fantasy Book Review · 2000-01-01
creative 4.25

The story is fun, creative, and easy to read, focusing on a young girl's adventures. It's a heart-warming tale that explores gender roles and magic.

This review praises the book for its fun and creative storytelling, making it an easy and enjoyable read. The focus on a young girl's adventures and her growth in a world of magic and gender roles is particularly highlighted. The reviewer appreciates the heart-warming aspects of the story and its exploration of societal norms.

Quick quotes

    Equal Rites is a fun, creative, and easy to read story about a young girl named Esk and her adventures growing up in a world of magic.

    The book features memorable characters, particularly Granny Weatherwax, and offers a different perspective on fantasy.

    Customers appreciate the writing style, which is both humorous and insightful.

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