Not consciously. I’m not really a Terry Pratchett fan. I’ve only read the first two discworld books and Equal Rites (I think?). I’m aware of his books with Death (is the book Mort about an apprentice?), so I can’t deny that could well have been in the back of my mind.
I too started with the first book, wasn't much of a fan, and then years later jumped back in with Mort (which yes, is about an apprentice, second book being Reaper Man) and Guards Guards, and fell in love, lol. Those two books are much better starting points, if you ever care to give it another go. Anyway, will print this out come October--looks great for Halloween season!