The Wee Free Men: The Beginning (Discworld: Wee Free Men / Hat Full of Sky) Paperback – August 24, 2010

This combines the first and second in the Tiffany Aching arc of Terry Pratchett's Diskworld novels, "The Wee Free Men" and "A Hat full of Sky" in one volume, giving you an excellent value for your reading dollar. The Aching books chronicle the progress of a young girl as she grows up to become one of the witches of Diskworld, aided and abetted by the Nac Mac Feegle (AKA the Wee Free Men)a clan of Pictsies, or wee folk of a definitely Celtic/Scottish persuasion.Although billed as a juvenile/YA series, the Aching books can be enjoyed by Pratchett fans of any and all ages. As always the book contains liberal helping of Pratchett's trademark wit, wisdom, satire, and sharp observations of human foibles.

This omnibus edition is an excellent and economical way to buy these novels. Not too heavy to carry around in my purse, or too heavy/awkward to read (as I'm beginning to develop arthritis in my hands, "not painful to hold" is now an important quality in a book).As for the books themselves, they are classic, enjoyable Discworld novels. There are brief appearances by famous characters. There is a heroine who is neither a stereotypical shrinking violet nor a stereotypical male author's attempt at a strong female character. The only off thing about her characterization is that she's almost unbelievably mature for her age, but that can be explained away by the fact that she's a witch. The Nac Mac Feegle were new to me but interesting. The slightly askew look at Earth mythology is present and as appreciated as ever. Love it, but I have yet to meet a Pratchett novel I don't adore.

Terry Pratchett is my favorite author and this is one of the top on my list of favorites. It was written for young adults, but even those are complex, hilarious and incredibly deep. If you get the chance to meet Rob Anybody, Daft Wullie, Big Yan and Hamish, please do. They are some of the most beloved of Pratchett characters!

A delightful tale about an unlikely which as as she discovers hers destiny her true potential and some very colorful and occasionally helpful allies along the way. A fun adventure presented the style that can only come from Terry Pratchett

I bought this as a gift for my niece (who can't actually read yet) because I have read it and loved and feel that both books send a great message about being yourself and never backing down on your dreams, but in a practical way. Not in a fluffy, someone will rescue you and hand you your dreams if you are good and nice and patient. Tiffany Aching is headstrong and takes full responsibility for her choices and actions. Again, I love these books.

If you enjoy the Discworld series by Terry Pratchett, don't let the YA writing stop you from reading these two wonderful stories. They're enjoyable for adults as well as children.

I have loved Terry Pratchett's novels since being introduced to them back in the late '90s and buy them as they come out. These are more "young adult" in complexity than his other Diskworld novels but wonderful stories nonetheless.Other reviews go through more of the plot, but I would have loved these at age 12. A great purchase for the fantasy lover!

Like many others, I believed this was a new work due to its title and product description. However, it is simply a reissue of The Wee Free Men and A Hat Full of Sky. While I love both these books, I don't need extra copies. I believe a more accurate product description would have prevented this issue. Mine is currently being shipped to me and now I have to return it. Blah. Hope this helps others avoid the same issue.That being said, for Terry Pratchett fans I Shall Wear Midnight is a NEW work and currently available for ordering. I Shall Wear Midnight

Great start to a new series by Pratchett, memorable characters and a great story.

A brilliant imaginative story chosen for a teenager with serious health problems, thankfully now on the mend. I read the book first (from the library) before purchase and it's lighthearted, very funny with an appropriate uplifting moral.

took 6 months to read. very good book. lightweight. good size. doesnt many have many pictures. fits in handbag easily

This is a collection of previously published books. NOT a new one. If you already own The Wee Free men & A Hat Full Of Sky you don't need this. This isn't wasn't / isn't clear in the description and led me to buy something I didn't need. Amazons return policy means it'll cost me approx £2.75 to return this because they described it poorly.Ach, see you, pussycat, scunner that y'are!