Fantasy author Sir Terry Pratchett has passed away aged 66 following a long battle with Alzheimer’s disease.
The popular author was best known for his Discworld series and became established as one of the greats of modern British literature. And after publishing more than 70 books, it seems the world has lost a true British icon.
His books have also been adapted numerous times, with several of his fantasy Discworld novels turned into critically-acclaimed TV shows. These have included The Colour of Magic as well as Going Postal and The Hogfather.
“The world has lost one of its brightest, sharpest minds,” said Transworld Publishers’ Larry Finlay. “In over 70 books, Terry enriched the planet like few before him. As all who read him know, Discworld was his vehicle to satirize this world: He did so brilliantly, with great skill, enormous humour and constant invention.”
Of course, Terry Pratchett’s long battle with Alzheimer’s was well-publicised… and even saw him take to TV following his diagnosis in 2007. In a controversial documentary titled Terry Pratchett: Choosing To Die, the author tackled the subject of how he planned to face the disease head on.
It was Terry Pratchett’s wish to highlight his struggles and bring greater awareness.
“Terry faced his Alzheimer’s disease (an ’embuggerance’, as he called it) publicly and bravely,” said Finlay. “Over the last few years, it was his writing that sustained him. His legacy will endure for decades to come.”
“My sympathies go out to Terry’s wife Lyn, their daughter Rhianna, to his close friend Rob Wilkins, and to all closest to him.”
Terry Pratchett also co-wrote Good Omens with acclaimed British author Neil Gaiman.
Sir Terry Pratchett is reported to have died at home with his family.
R.I.P. Sir Terry. And remember, Death isn’t cruel – merely terribly, terribly good at his job.
