If you’ve ever searched for “Discworld reading order” and immediately felt more confused than before – you’re not alone.
Terry Pratchett didn’t write Discworld as one long, continuous story. Instead, it’s a shared world made up of many smaller story paths, each following different characters and themes.
The good news?
You don’t need to read everything in order.
You just need to start somewhere sensible.
How reading order works
There is no single correct Discworld reading order.
Readers usually choose one of three approaches:
- Reading by sub-series (recommended)
- Reading in publication order
- Jumping around based on interest
All three work.
On this site, we focus on sub-series paths, because they’re the easiest, most enjoyable, and least intimidating for new readers.
Sub-series overview
Each sub-series follows a group of characters and can be read mostly on its own.
Think of these as story paths through Discworld.
You can start with any of them.
City watch path
Best for: crime fiction fans, city politics, reluctant heroes, and sharp satire.
These books follow the City Watch of Ankh-Morpork – police officers navigating corruption, chaos, and dragons while trying (and often failing) to keep the peace.
Suggested order:
- Guards! Guards!
- Men at Arms
- Feet of Clay
- Jingo
- The Fifth Elephant
- Night Watch
- Thud!
- Snuff
Witches path
Best for: folklore lovers, fairytale twists, strong female characters, and dry humour.
These stories focus on witches who value common sense, responsibility, and knowing when not to use magic.
Suggested order:
- Equal Rites
- Wyrd Sisters
- Witches Abroad
- Lords and Ladies
- Maskerade
- Carpe Jugulum
DEATH path
Best for: readers who enjoy philosophy, dark humour, and unexpectedly emotional stories.
Suggested order:
- Mort
- Reaper Man
- Soul Music
- Hogfather
- Thief of Time
Standalone novels
Best for: readers who want a one-off story without committing to a series.
Popular standalones:
- Small Gods
- Pyramids
- Moving Pictures
- The Truth
- Monstrous Regiment
Publication order (Optional)
Some readers prefer to read Discworld in publication order to see how the world evolves.
This approach is optional and not required for enjoyment. It’s best suited to readers who already know they love the series.
Not sure where to begin?
- Unsure? → Guards! Guards!
- Thoughtful? → Mort
- Independent? → Small Gods
- Folklore fan? → Wyrd Sisters
Disclaimer
This is an unofficial fan site and is not affiliated with Terry Pratchett’s Estate or publishers.
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