Fantasy novelist Terry Pratchett dies at 66

Fantasy novelist Terry Pratchett
Fantasy novelist Terry Pratchett sold over 85 million books in 37 languages.
Ian Gavan | Getty Images 2012

Fantasy novelist Terry Pratchett died Thursday at age 66 after a battle with early-onset Alzheimer's, according to his publishers.

Pratchett was best known for the sprawling Discworld series, which he began writing in 1983.

In a statement, Transworld Publishers' Larry Finlay said,"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."

Fans can take comfort in one of Pratchett's classic lines from the book "Good Omens," which he co-wrote with Neil Gaiman: "Don't think of it as dying,' said Death. 'Just think of it as leaving early to avoid the rush.'"

On Twitter, Pratchett got the last word:

Create a More Connected Minnesota

MPR News is your trusted resource for the news you need. With your support, MPR News brings accessible, courageous journalism and authentic conversation to everyone - free of paywalls and barriers. Your gift makes a difference.