British author Terry Pratchett has announced that he has been diagnosed with a rare form of early Alzheimer’s. From the BBC article:
“All other things being equal, I expect to meet most current and, as far as possible, future commitments but will discuss things with the various organisers,” he said.
“Frankly, I would prefer it if people kept things cheerful, because I think there’s time for at least a few more books yet.”
He told fans the statement should be interpreted as “I am not dead”.
“I will, of course, be dead at some future point, as will everybody else,” he said.
“For me, this may be further off than you think. It’s too soon to tell.
“I know it’s a very human thing to say ‘is there anything I can do’, but in this case I would only entertain offers from very high-end experts in brain chemistry.”
I am of course very glad to hear that he still has plans to write at least a few more books, and I send him all the good wishes I can. Ever since Will (aka Geek Buffet writer terrorfirma) introduced me to Pratchett’s books way back in high school, the release of a new book has been an event to look forward to. For any of you out there who have yet to discover Pratchett and the Discworld, you’re missing out on some of the wittiest, funniest, and most intelligent fantasy writing out there right now. It’s clear he loves his work. I will eagerly await the next book.
-posted by Dana
Geek Buffet 
I still haven’t read his latest. It’s a long hold at the library!
Oh, Will, it’s excellent! A great follow-up to Going Postal, with hints of more books to come, and lots of Vetinari time.
The wait at our library looked like it was going to be long, too, but I guess they must have lots of copies, because even though I was 23rd on the list, I got it in about a week.
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