Review Detail

A Hat Full of Sky continues the adventures of Tiffany Aching (an unlikely name for a witch, some say) and the Wee Free Men, a.k.a. The Nac Mac Feegle.

I love these books. Every time I get one in from Terry Pratchett, I just have to smile. They make me happy to read. Sure, some sad things do happen in them, but they are fantastic literary romps filled with humor and wit.

In this book, Tiffany has decided to go off and learn a bit more about witching. So, she sets off to live with Miss Level in the forest. It is her first time being away from the chalk and the first time being around other young people practicing magic (though some, it seems, are working more on looking like they are practicing magic, rather than the actual magic itself).

Tiffany's gifts are strong but hidden and it is a hiver (an invisible kind of monstrous [maybe] thing that can take a person over and destroy them) that sees the potential in her, rather than her newfound acquaintances. It takes the combined efforts of the Wee Free Men and the powerful Mistress Weatherwax to help Tiffany win free. But, as in the first book, it is Tiffany herself that really saves the day.

Thats what so many readers loved about the first book. This is a girl who stands on her won, wielding frying pans or whatever necessary to get the job done. She doesnt back down, even in the face of her own failings and insecurities. Tiffany is an excellent character and Id love to know her.

For those that havent read the first book, this one is still accessible. But, youll enjoy it more if youve done your research and read the first one. I highly recommend this book for girls and boys of all ages (as Mr. Pratchett realized from the letters that came in, this is a book that appeals to everyone).