Xanth · #49

Knickelpede Knight

Piers Anthony

8.0 / 10
1 expectation

The New York Times–bestselling author returns to his acclaimed fantasy series as an ordinary insect is tasked with mapping the entirety of Xanth.

Nicolas Nickelpede is an average insect in almost every way—apart from his remarkable skill of clairvoyance. When he's approached by a beautiful human woman with a seemingly impossible task, he can't say no—literally. But mapping all of Xanth won't be easy. Especially with demons lying in wait to waylay, misdirect, or otherwise trip them up. 

Along the way, Nic and his telepathic companion are joined by a woman with a powerful kiss and a Shameful Centaur with a penchant for hard truths. Together, the team faces the Demons of Entropy, Alchemy, Volcanoes, and more as they traverse the many lands of Xanth, fight a zombie curse, and deploy dangerous puns to save the day.

Published
May 26, 2026
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Author

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…