Hogfather: A Novel of Discworld (Discworld, 20)

"Exceptionally amusing and enjoyable." —Michael Moorcock

'Twas the night before Hogswatch and all through the house . . . something was missing. Don't miss this hilarious and irreverent installment in the beloved Discworld series from New York Times bestselling author Sir Terry Pratchett.

It’s the most wonderful time of the year, Hogswatchnight, when the Hogfather himself dons his red suit and climbs in his sleigh pulled by—of course—eight hogs, to shower gifts across Discworld. But when the fat man goes missing, someone has to sit in. It’s up to Death to take up the reigns—otherwise the sun won’t shine tomorrow . . . or ever again.

Who would want to harm Discworld's most beloved icon? Very few things are held sacred in this twisted, corrupt, heartless—and oddly familiar—universe, but the Hogfather is one of them. Yet here it is, Hogswatchnight, that most joyous and acquisitive of times, and the jolly, old, red-suited gift-giver has vanished without a trace. And there's something shady going on involving an uncommonly psychotic member of the Assassins' Guild and certain representatives of Ankh-Morpork's rather extensive criminal element. Suddenly Discworld's entire myth system is unraveling at an alarming rate. Drastic measures must be taken, which is why Death himself is taking up the reins of the fat man's vacated sleigh . . . which, in turn, has Death's level-headed granddaughter, Susan, racing to unravel the nasty, humbuggian mess before the holiday season goes straight to hell and takes everyone along with it.

The Discworld novels can be read in any order, but Hogfather is the fourth book in the Death series. The collection includes:

  • Mort
  • Reaper Man
  • Soul Music
  • Hogfather
  • Thief of Time

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Published Jan 28, 2014

416 pages

Average rating: 7.54

67 RATINGS

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Community Reviews

Wolfired Reader
Jan 16, 2026
8/10 stars
I really enjoyed listening to the performance of this audiobook during the holiday season. This was my first time experiencing Discworld and Pratchett, and it was easy to visit a spot in the middle of the series. It was fantasy and parable read by great voices that helped me look forward to the next listening session. 8/10
Mrspyjamas
Jan 11, 2026
7/10 stars
This book was imaginative and clever. I really enjoyed the story, the humour, and the underlying themes about belief, humanity, and tradition. Death stepping into an unexpected role was a particular highlight. While the world-building was rich and detailed, I did find that the level of detail sometimes worked against the story. There were parts where it really dragged and the narrative felt a little lost in its own cleverness. I genuinely think an abridged version might have been more enjoyable. That said, I’m very glad I read it and can absolutely see why it’s so loved. I can’t wait to watch the TV adaptation.
Ellaida
Dec 09, 2023
10/10 stars
So this was a re-read (lost count which one) for the December bookclub book - check it out - The Mended Drum on Fable App! What's better to get in a festive mood than a bit of Discworld logic, humour and Death. Can't go wrong with Hogfather just before Christmas. Always a 5* read - every time I read it, I keep finding new things I haven't noticed before.

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