A rather embarrassing confession: I wasn't the world's biggest fan of Terry Pratchett's writing--I always found it a little too clever. Despite this, my husband said I might like this one, and as usual, he was right. Mr. Pratchett's voice fits so well with the shape of the story and characters, and treats it all with his classic humor, and (somewhat surprisingly to me) great respect. It was pleasant to find, unexpectedly, so much heart in this story, and that the writing style fit it all so well. There were moments where the characters were experiencing something profound, sometimes terrible, and these moments were treated in fresh, emotional way that was incredibly effective. Then there were the wonderful commentaries on storytelling itself.
All the praise of the writing aside, the story itself is a wonderful adventure, internal and external, and the changes that the characters undergo is wonderful to see. I was concerned that there could be unintentional undertones of orientalism, but that too was waylaid at every turn--Mao and his people are so "civilized" by their own devices, and the thoughts and speeches as they are written are in a wonderful individual way--sure, it's all a bit sweet, but everyone in this world is. On top of this, who wouldn't love a strong Ghost Girl who chooses her own name, and is incredibly clever and kind, and in the end, always does the "right" thing.
I've come away from this book with a much greater love of Mr. Pratchett's writing, and look forward to reading more of his (thankfully extensive) works. ( )

Another unmissable YA book that defies characterization. I have a hard time selling this book, but man is it good. Read the following review to get a better idea of the book:

From Bookmarks Magazine
Critics praised Nation as a hybrid, deeply philosophical book aimed at young adults, but one likely to appeal to adults as well, much like Philip Pullman’s His Dark Materials trilogy or J. K. Rowling’s Harry Potter series. With echoes of William Defoe and William Golding, Nation takes the form of a “classic Robinsonade,” notes the Washington Post—that is, a book in which characters on a desert island recreate civilization. As his characters grapple with questions of leadership, humanity, and survival, Pratchett explores fundamental ideas about religion and culture. This might all sound rather heavy, but there is plenty of originality and humor—and cannibals, spirits, and secret treasures—to go around. In the end, Pratchett offers a vision of a deeply humane world. “In some part of the multiverse there is probably a civilisation based on the thinking of Terry Pratchett,” writes the Guardian, “and what a civilised civilisation that will be.”
Copyright 2008 Bookmarks Publishing LLC ( )

This book was met with waves of critical acclaim when it was released in 2008, and I have no hesitation joining the ranks. Pratchett's usual humorous tone is still present in this deftly assembled tale, but it doesn't dominate the narrative the way it does in his Discworld series. In Nation, Pratchett sets aside the usual graphic scenes of man-in-the-wild and instead focuses on the meaning of identity. While Mau struggles with his beliefs and his grief at the loss of his people, Daphne must decide who she is to be, and how much the "Standards" and "Manners" of home really mean to her. Cultural identity and gender identity are explored with sensitivity and humor in this novel, and young adults will find the plot neither dry nor overly theatrical. Pratchett's humor gives even the grimmest scenes life and poignancy in this alternate take on British imperialism, island life, and what it means to grow up. ( )

A very enjoyable book from the most entertaining Terry Pratchett. Away from the Discoworld novels and the humor by the sake of humor, this book goes deeper and more seriously about the relationship with religion and science, always with witty characters and masterful storytelling.

Like many other books from Pratchett, I feel like it didn't get all the potential of the story. He always sets up a wonderful game and then underplays it. Like if once he has created such great story, he is bored to execute it in detail. Even so, the main characters of this novel, Mau and Daphne, are among the most detailed and develop very interestingly from childhood to maturity and responsibility. ( )

Hardcover ( )