Terry Pratchett: Life, Works.

Terence David John Pratchett, more commonly known as Terry Pratchett, was a British author and journalist who passed away in 2015. He is best known for his Discworld series, a collection of fantasy novels set in a flat, disc-shaped world that is carried through space on the backs of four elephants, who in turn stand on the back of a giant turtle.

Pratchett began writing at a young age and published his first short story in a science fiction magazine at the age of 13. He went on to write over 70 books throughout his career, with the Discworld series being his most popular and enduring creation. The series began in 1983 with the publication of "The Colour of Magic" and continued until the release of "The Shepherd's Crown" in 2015, just months before Pratchett's death.

One of the things that made Pratchett's writing so special was his ability to blend humor and fantasy in a way that was both entertaining and thought-provoking. His books often tackled serious issues such as prejudice, power, and mortality, but did so with a light touch and a healthy dose of wit and satire. This approach made his books accessible to readers of all ages and backgrounds, and helped to establish him as one of the most beloved and respected authors of his time.

Another aspect of Pratchett's writing that endeared him to readers was his ability to create fully-realized, believable characters. His books are filled with a wide cast of memorable and engaging characters, from the bumbling wizard Rincewind to the no-nonsense City Watch Commander Vimes and Angua. These characters often had their own arcs and personal growth throughout the series, which added depth and richness to the stories.

Pratchett's Discworld series also had a significant impact on the fantasy genre as a whole. His books subverted many of the traditional fantasy tropes and conventions, and instead offered a unique and original take on the genre. His world-building was particularly impressive, as he created a rich and detailed setting that was both fantastical and grounded in reality. His books also helped to pave the way for other authors to take risks with their writing and to challenge the status quo.

Aside from his writing, Pratchett was also known for his philanthropy and activism. He was a strong advocate for human rights and animal welfare, and supported a number of charitable organizations throughout his life. He was also a vocal proponent of assisted suicide, and was open about his own struggle with early-onset Alzheimer's disease. His final years were marked by his public battle with the disease, which ultimately took his life in March 2015.

In conclusion, Terry Pratchett was a talented and accomplished author whose writing left a lasting impact on the fantasy genre. His Discworld series was beloved by readers of all ages and backgrounds, and his ability to blend humor and fantasy in a way that was both entertaining and thought-provoking was truly remarkable. He also used his platform as a successful author to promote causes he believed in, such as human rights and animal welfare. He will be remembered as one of the greats of fantasy literature.