GEIS OF THE GARGOYLE

Another addition to Anthony's already voluminous Xanth fantasy series (Happy Thyme, 1993, etc.). Florida-shaped Xanth is a land of puns, dragons, illusions, and problems to be solved. The formula deviates little. This time, Gary Gargoyle, whose geis, or quest, is to purify the polluted waters of the Swan Knee River, is tempted by the wacky half-demon Mentia to seek out the Good Magician Humfrey and ask him for a more convenient way to purify the water. This, of course, leads to an adventure wherein Gary, temporarily given a human body, must tutor the unruly child named Surprise, a girl so magical that she can accomplish any magical task — but only once. The entire land of Xanth is threatened. And Gary must overcome a treacherous philter named Hanna. Ephemeral amusement for pun-struck Xanthonauts.