A fickle flux in the fabric of space has allowed a horrendous hurricane to blast into Xanth, stirring up mischief and madness wherver she goes.

On a dare from his fellow Demons, the omnipotent entity known as X(A/N)th agrees to prove his powers by traveling incognito through the realm he secretly rules — the enchanted land of Xanth. But the challenge they've given him may be more than even he can manage.

First, he must assume a form of their choosing — a comical creature called Nimby, with the body of a dragon and the head of an ass. Nimby is really an acronym for "Not In My Back Yard," meaning no one would want such a creature to live near them.

Second, he may only speak once during the adventure — and may never breathe a word about his true identify. Next he must stay with the first creature he meets or lose his power to move. And last, and certainly worst, he must wring at least one tear from his companion or forfeit his high rank for ages to come.

Unfortunately his partner on this peculiar quest turns out to be an ill-tempered lass called Chlorine, with a tart tongue and a talent for tainting water. But that's not the end of his troubles, for a magical spell has opened a door between Xanth and the mundane world beyond, letting in a rampaging hurricane, and a hapless human family along with it — Jim and Karen Baldwin, and their two teenage sons, David and Sean.

Together this mismatched company encounters a host of turbulent misadventures as they struggle to keep Xanth from being blown off the map forever.

Published
1995
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In the world of fantasy literature, few settings are as inventive and whimsical as the land of Xanth. Piers Anthony’s beloved series transports readers to a place where magic flows through every corner of the land, and everyone possesses a unique talent, known as a "gift." But don’t expect ordinary powers – these gifts are often as quirky, amusing, and unpredictable as the characters who wield them.

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Xanth isn’t just a land of enchantment; it’s a realm where the rules of reality bend with playful abandon. From talking trees to magical creatures, each new adventure feels like an exploration of the unexpected. The series is known for its light-hearted humor, often punctuated by puns and wordplay that add layers of charm to its fantastical premise. Yet, within the humor lies a deeper thread of storytelling – one that explores themes of identity, destiny, and the power of individuality.

The heart of Xanth lies in its characters, each with their own strange and often hilarious abilities. As they journey through the magical realm, they face obstacles that challenge not just their gifts, but their very perceptions of the world around them. Each book introduces new characters, expanding the world and exploring different facets of its magic. From the mischievous antics of the characters to the often profound dilemmas they must solve, there’s a perfect balance between lightness and substance in every page.

With over 40 books in the series, Xanth is a sprawling epic that offers something for every kind of fantasy fan. Whether you’re captivated by the whimsy of a sentient, shape-shifting fruit or the trials of characters facing life-altering choices, Xanth’s enchanted landscapes provide endless possibilities. For those who crave a sense of wonder alongside a dash of comedy, it’s a world that invites you to stay a little longer, with each new story offering a fresh perspective on the magic and mystery of life itself.

In Xanth, magic isn’t just an art – it’s a way of life, and every page is an invitation to explore a world where imagination knows no bounds. With humor, heart, and a touch of mystery, the series continues to enchant readers, leaving them always hungry for the next adventure.

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