Ox
Veg, Cal, and Aquilon - two men and one woman - roamed the alternate dimensions of space and
time accompanied by the mantas, strange flying aliens, half animal, half fungus, with the keenest senses of any creature in the universe.
But now, even the mantas were threatened in the hostile world dominated by
savage robot machines. Trapped in an alternative dimension, the group's
only hope of escape lay with the being they called OX - an amorphous,
telepathic pattern of energy whose infinite power could destroy as
easily as deliver...
Piers Anthony
Piers Anthony's name is synonymous with fantastical worlds, vivid characters, and an unparalleled sense of whimsy. Born in Oxford, England, in 1934, he moved to the United States as a child, shaping the cultural landscape of his imagination. What sets Anthony apart is his ability to weave humor and depth into stories that are both lighthearted and thought-provoking, making him a standout in the fantasy genre.
Anthony’s journey to becoming a household name in fantasy literature wasn’t a straightforward path. After serving in the U.S. Army and briefly teaching, he devoted himself to writing, selling his first short story and setting the stage for his later successes. However, it was with the Xanth series that he truly carved out his place in literary history. A world brimming with puns, magic, and eccentric characters, Xanth resonated with readers for its wit and its heart. What began as a fun experiment turned into a sprawling saga, with Anthony publishing a book for nearly every letter of the alphabet, earning him a global following that continues to grow.
Of Man and Manta
Of Man and Manta consists of three primary books, and includes one additional book that complement the series but is not considered mandatory reads. The current recommended reading order for the series is provided below.