Knot Gneiss
"Knot Gneiss" by Piers Anthony is the 34th installment in the long-running Xanth series, once again delivering a whimsical blend of puns, magic, and misfit camaraderie. The novel follows Wenda Woodwife, a being of living wood, who must transport an enormous and emotionally burdensome boulder of petrified reverse wood to its proper resting place. To accomplish this seemingly impossible task, Wenda assembles a ragtag team of quirky companions, each bringing their own talents and eccentricities to the journey across the ever-pun-filled and unpredictable land of Xanth.
The novel maintains the series’ trademark humor and wordplay while also delving into themes of teamwork, trust, and inner strength. Longtime fans of the series will appreciate the familiar tone and imaginative flair, though newcomers might find it helpful to start with earlier entries. "Knot Gneiss" is recommended for readers who enjoy lighthearted fantasy and the continued creative exploration of the Xanth universe.