After having been rather disappointed by the television production itself, I rather hoped that I’d enjoy the illustrated screenplay of Terry Pratchett’s Hogfather rather more, but unfortunately it failed to deliver.

There are positives here – it’s lavishly presented in a beautifully glossy hardback format, it’s pages are filled with set photographs, line drawings and design sketches, and there’s the added advantage of not being hampered by lackluster performances, but other than two forewords (one by Pratchett, the other by Jean) and an after word by the producers, it is absolutely devoid of extras. One might expect a few production notes scattered throughout and perhaps some cast interviews, but one would be left unsatisfied.

It’s a lovely addition to anyone’s collection, but if you are looking for something that will give you a little insight into the production, you’ll find this sadly lacking. One can’t help feeling they threw this together quickly in order to cash in on the seasonal programme schedule, with little thought as to what it could have been – and it could have been so much more! On the other hand, if you’re looking for something to leaf through on a wintry afternoon, or leave on your coffee table, you could do a lot worse. ( )