Of the Big Wee Hag

The thing I appreciate most about The Wee Free Men and Terry Pratchett's other books about aspiring witch Tiffany Aching (A Hat Full of Sky and Wintersmith) is the role of magic-wielding witches. Magic is not something to impress or for personal gain or power. The most important thing to know about the proper us of magic, in fact, is that it should be rarely used. Instead, what makes one a good witch is an inquiring mind, common sense, and the ability to see beyond the obvious. Observe much and speak little but with authority. These are skills that anyone can develop, regardless of magic ability, and is a path to wisdom. The book is a lot of fun, but teaches a good lesson along the way.