Today, TerryPratchett.com announced that the estate of the renowned fantasy author, one of the UK’s top-selling writers, is launching the "Discworld graphic novel universe." This initiative aims to adapt Pratchett’s Discworld books into a series of comic adaptations produced by different publishers, authors, and artists. The Discworld series includes over 40 fantasy novels, spanning genres from light-hearted comedy and satire to young adult coming-of-age stories and introspective dark horror tales. The first three books selected for graphic novel adaptations reflect this diversity in style.
The initial adaptations include Thief of Time (2001), Wee Free Men (2003), and Monstrous Regiment (2003). Thief of Time will be adapted by Gary Chudleigh and illustrated by Marvel Comics regular Rachael Stott, with a release date set for April 2, 2026. It can be preordered from Doubleday Books. Meanwhile, Wee Free Men will be adapted by Rhianna Pratchett, Terry Pratchett’s daughter, with publication slated for spring 2027 by Puffin Books, though the artist is yet to be announced. Details about the creative team or publisher for Monstrous Regiment have not been disclosed.
Each of these adaptations serves as a distinct introduction to Pratchett’s oeuvre. Wee Free Men, a YA novel, introduces readers to Tiffany Aching, a young witch-in-training in a rural setting, who, throughout the series, matures and gains the loyalty of the Nac Mac Feegle, tiny blue men with strong Scottish accents, known for their comedic value. Thief of Time is a novel for adults, exploring themes involving Death (as a character) and a cosmic entity attempting to eradicate human uncertainty, endangering humanity itself.
These adaptations are not the first of Pratchett’s works to be transformed into graphic novels. Both The Colour of Magic and The Light Fantastic were previously adapted as a combined graphic novel. Other titles like Mort (1987), Guards! Guards! (1989), and Small Gods (1992) have also received visual treatment. However, the new "graphic novel universe" project appears geared toward converting a larger portion of Pratchett’s extensive library into comic form, featuring a diverse array of authors and artists.
