Grundy Golemn is small in stature and tired of being ignored. What he needs is a quest and the chance to become a "larger than life" hero. And the perfect opportunity comes along when Princess Ivy's pet dragon Stanley Steamer disappears.

Like any sensible hero, Grundy wants all the help he can get, so he seeks the advice of the Good Magician Humfrey, who tells him that he must ride the Monster Under the Bed to the Ivory Tower. Since all little girls have monsters living under their beds, Grundy simply recruits Princess Ivy's own monster, Snortimer. But since light is fatal to Snortimer, the bed must go too, and so must someone to carry the bed. Grundy's rescue party rapidly grows until, finally, all are gathered and ready to set out. The only trouble is, no one knows where to find the Ivory Tower.

What follows is an incredible, imaginative romp that takes Grundy and his comrades from the Gap Dragoness to an encounter with the Sea Hag, and a series of daring rescues beyond Grundy's most heroic dreams.

Published
1985
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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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