Jingo by Terry Pratchett

 

Jingo by Terry Pratchett
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

War comes to the Discworld as age old enemies vie for control of an island (Leshp) which recently appeared off their respective coasts in the Circle Sea but dive deeper we see that political goals of certain leaders within Klatch are in play and rallying the people of that old and large nation/region against a well known foreign aggressor is a win/win scenario. Alas the decision makers (Rust and the ilk) in Ankh-Morpork prove they are no better (morals, ethics, intelligence) than their opposition as they too begin to wave the flag for war dredging up all the usual cliches and fears. Fortunately the Patrician (stepped down for the duration) has some plans and Vimes does things his own way because what is war other than a huge breach of the peace, after all no one nothing should be above the law.
Jingo is one my favourite novels as we see familiar characters having to deal with everyday things on a whole different scale with the Patrician and Vimes really shining in the narrative as well Colon and Nobby who certainly learn a thing or two. The Watch as a whole are entertaining as they take a package tour of Klatch, play some football and as usual Carrot embraces the culture and within a day fits right in and once again we see that anyone with any insight recognises his for what he is.
We can all learn lessons from this piece of fiction, it is so easy to use labels to negate the humanity and rights of our fellow humans be it for personal or political gain but the signs are always there. Jingo is simply a good read and as is the norm from Terry there is a message delivered within the humour and occasional slapstick, highly recommended.


View all my reviews