Xanth · #11

Heaven Cent

Name: Heaven Cent
Rating: 6 (3 reviews)
Author: Piers Anthony

Piers Anthony

Fantasy Humor

6.0 / 10

3 ratings

As far as nine-year-old Dolph, son of King Dor and Queen Irene of Castle Roogna, could tell, the world was full of mysteries that needed solving.

For instance, why did young men and women spend so much time on mushy stuff? Love, they said, which explained nothing as far as Dolph was concerned.

Then there was the matter of Grandma Iris and what happened to her wonderful talent for illusion – making things seem like other things. Nowadays, she could only make them sound like other things – an ability of dubious worth.

But the biggest mystery of all was Good Magician Humfrey's disappearance in a puff of smoke – holy smoke – accidentally conjured by one of Humfrey's elves. And that seemed like one puzzle the boy could do something about.

So, setting out with the skeleton Marrow Bones, his own magical talents – and his mother's permission – Dolph embarked upon a grand quest across the land of Xanth... a journey on which the lad found himself pitted against bloodthirsty harpies, human-headed snakes called Naga, and – most challenging of all – marriage-minded girls who supplied some surprising answers to Dolph's questions.

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Published: 1988

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Xanth

The series

Full series details →

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.