The Truth – Summary
William de Worde, a young man from a noble Ankh-Morpork family, accidentally becomes the founder and editor of the Discworld’s first newspaper, the Ankh-Morpork Times. As movable type arrives in the city, brought by a group of dwarves led by Gunilla Goodmountain, William sees an opportunity to expand his small newsletter into a full-fledged newspaper. He assembles a team including Sacharissa Cripslock, a sharp-witted reporter, and Otto Chriek, a vampire photographer with a passion for iconography.
As the Times gains popularity, it faces opposition from the Engravers’ Guild, which establishes a rival tabloid, the Ankh-Morpork Inquirer. Meanwhile, a sinister plot unfolds to depose Lord Vetinari, the city’s Patrician. Two mercenaries, Mr Pin and Mr Tulip, known as the New Firm, are hired by a mysterious Committee to frame Vetinari for embezzlement and attempted murder. They use a lookalike named Charlie to stage the crime, but their plan goes awry when they’re forced to stab Vetinari’s clerk, Drumknott.
William and his team stumble upon this conspiracy while investigating the disappearance of Vetinari’s dog, Wuffles, the only witness to the crime. As they delve deeper into the story, they face numerous challenges, including threats from the New Firm and competition from the sensationalist Inquirer.
The investigation leads William to confront uncomfortable truths about his own family, as he discovers his father’s involvement in the plot against Vetinari. In a climactic scene, the Times office catches fire during a confrontation with the New Firm. William and his team manage to escape, while Pin and Tulip meet a grisly end in the burning building.
Using evidence gathered from a magical recording device and Wuffles’ testimony (translated by a werewolf), William and his team expose the truth, clearing Vetinari’s name and thwarting the conspiracy. The novel concludes with the Times becoming an established, if not entirely welcome, institution in Ankh-Morpork, and William embracing his role as a purveyor of truth in a city that often prefers comfortable lies.
Key themes:
- The power and responsibility of the press
- The nature of truth and its relationship to facts
- The impact of technological innovation on society
- Corruption and political machinations
- The tension between tradition and progress
Character Details
William de Worde
William de Worde is the protagonist and accidental founder of the Ankh-Morpork Times. A young man from a noble family, he possesses a strong moral compass and an unwavering commitment to the truth. Initially making a living as a scribe, William’s life takes an unexpected turn when he becomes involved in the newspaper business. He’s intelligent, principled, and sometimes naïve, but grows into his role as a journalist throughout the story. William’s relationship with his father is complex, adding depth to his character as he grapples with family loyalty and his duty to report the truth.
Sacharissa Cripslock
Sacharissa Cripslock is a talented young woman who becomes a key member of the Times’ staff. Initially hired to write about society news, she quickly proves herself to be a sharp and capable reporter. Sacharissa has a knack for crafting attention-grabbing headlines and possesses a keen eye for detail. She forms a close working relationship with William, which hints at romantic potential. Sacharissa’s quick wit and adaptability make her an invaluable asset to the fledgling newspaper.
Otto Chriek
Otto Chriek is a reformed vampire who serves as the Times’ iconographer (photographer). He’s a member of the Black Ribbon society, having sworn off blood in favour of coffee. Otto’s passion for light and imagery often conflicts humorously with his vampiric nature, as flash photography tends to reduce him to ash (though he always manages to reconstitute himself). His unique perspective and dedication to his craft make him an essential part of the Times team.
Lord Vetinari
Havelock Vetinari is the Patrician of Ankh-Morpork, a brilliant and Machiavellian ruler who maintains order in the chaotic city. In “The Truth”, he becomes the target of a conspiracy to remove him from power. Despite being framed for embezzlement and attempted murder, Vetinari maintains his composure and sharp wit throughout the ordeal. His complex relationship with the city and its inhabitants is a recurring theme in the Discworld series.
Mr Pin and Mr Tulip
Known collectively as the New Firm, Mr Pin and Mr Tulip are a pair of ruthless mercenaries hired to carry out the plot against Lord Vetinari. Mr Pin is the brains of the operation, while Mr Tulip is the muscle, known for his prodigious strength and peculiar habit of snorting mundane substances like chalk dust. Their violent methods and dark humour provide a sinister counterpoint to the more comedic elements of the story.
Reader Fit
“The Truth” would appeal to readers who enjoy satirical fantasy with a dash of mystery and political intrigue. Fans of Terry Pratchett’s Discworld series will find familiar elements and characters, but the book also serves as a good entry point for newcomers. Those interested in media studies, journalism or the impact of technology on society will appreciate the novel’s exploration of these themes through a fantastical lens.
The book’s blend of humour, social commentary and engaging storytelling makes it suitable for both young adults and older readers who enjoy clever, thought-provoking fiction.
Quick Facts
Genre: Comic Fantasy
Publication Year: 2000
Reading Time Estimate: 8-10 hours
Notable Awards: Nominated for the Locus Award for Best Fantasy Novel in 2001
Related Books
- “Going Postal” by Terry Pratchett – Another Discworld novel that deals with the modernisation of Ankh-Morpork.
- “Good Omens” by Terry Pratchett and Neil Gaiman – A collaborative work that showcases Pratchett’s humour in a different setting.
- “Small Gods” by Terry Pratchett – A standalone Discworld novel that similarly explores themes of belief and societal change.
Buy the Book
Dive into the chaotic and hilarious world of Ankh-Morpork’s first newspaper! “The Truth” offers a perfect blend of fantasy, satire, and mystery that will keep you entertained from the first page to the last. Whether you’re a long-time Discworld fan or new to Terry Pratchett’s work, this novel promises a rollicking good time with plenty of laughs and thought-provoking moments. Don’t miss out on this brilliant exploration of truth, journalism, and the power of the written word. Get your copy today and discover why Terry Pratchett is considered one of the greatest fantasy authors of all time!
