Piers Anthony Dillingham Jacob (born August 6, 1934 in Oxford, England) is an English American writer in the science fiction and fantasy genres, publishing under the name Piers Anthony. He is most famous for his long-running novel series set in the fictional realm of Xanth (see Xanth). Many of his books have appeared on the New York Times Best Seller list. He is one of the most prolific science fiction/fantasy authors of all time. He has claimed that one of his greatest achievements has been to publish a book for every letter of the alphabet, from Anthonology to Zombie Lover.
Easton Press Piers Anthony books
Macroscope - Masterpieces of Science Fiction - 1994
A Spell for Chameleon - Masterpieces of Fantasy - 1999
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About Piers Anthony
Anthony's family immigrated to the United States from Britain when he was four. He graduated from Goddard College in Vermont in 1956. He became a naturalized U.S. citizen while serving in the United States Army in 1958. After completing a two year stint in military service, he briefly taught public school before becoming a fulltime writer.On multiple occasions he has moved from one publisher to another (taking a profitable hit series with him), when he felt the editors were unduly tampering with his work. He has even sued publishers for accounting malfeasance and won judgments in his favor. He has maintained Internet Publishers Survey in the interest of helping aspiring writers. For this service, he won the 2003 "Friend of EPIC" award for service to the electronic publishing community. His website won the Special Recognition for Service to Writers award from Preditors and Editors, an author's guide to publishers and writing services.
Many of his popular novel series have been optioned for movies. His popular series Xanth was made into a video game, titled "Companions of Xanth" by Legend Entertainment. It is made for PCs and on CD-ROM, although it is DOS-based. There is also a board game called Xanth by Mayfair Games.
Piers Anthony's novels usually end with a chapter-long Author's Note, in which he talks about himself, his life, and his experiences as they related to the process of writing the novel. He often discusses correspondence with readers and any real-world issues that influenced the novel.
Xanth series
Piers Anthony's Xanth series is a long-running and popular collection of fantasy novels. The series is known for its humorous and pun-filled approach to fantasy, creating a magical land called Xanth where every living creature possesses a unique magical talent. A Spell for Chameleon (1977) The first book introduces readers to the protagonist, Bink, who appears to lack a magical talent in a land where everyone has one. Bink is exiled from his homeland unless he can discover his latent magical ability. The Source of Magic (1979) This second book continues the exploration of Xanth, focusing on the character of Dor, who must find the source of Xanth's magic to save the land. Castle Roogna (1979) The third book features the character Dor as he becomes the King of Xanth and must navigate the challenges of ruling the magical land. Centaur Aisle (1981) This installment follows the adventures of a young magician named Trent, who travels to Centaur Isle on a quest. Ogre, Ogre (1982) This book introduces Smash, an ogre with a unique perspective, as he embarks on a quest in Xanth.The Xanth series consists of numerous novels, and Piers Anthony has continued to expand the series with new additions over the years. The books often include wordplay, puns, and humor, making them distinct in the fantasy genre. If you enjoy light-hearted fantasy with a whimsical and humorous tone, the Xanth series may be worth exploring.
Incarnations of Immortality series
The Incarnations of Immortality series is a set of fantasy novels written by Piers Anthony. The series consists of eight books, each focusing on a different "incarnation" or supernatural figure who holds a cosmic office. On a Pale Horse (1983) The first book introduces readers to Zane, a man who, after a series of unfortunate events, becomes the incarnation of Death. Zane must navigate his newfound responsibilities and powers. Bearing an Hourglass (1984) The second book follows Norton, a man who becomes the incarnation of Time. Norton must grapple with the complexities of managing time and its impact on individuals. With a Tangled Skein (1985) The third book focuses on Niobe, a mortal woman who becomes entangled in the threads of fate. The story delves into the concept of destiny and the powers controlling it. Wielding a Red Sword (1986) The fourth book features Mym, a soldier who becomes the incarnation of War. Mym must come to terms with the destructive nature of his new role. Being a Green Mother (1987) The fifth book centers around Orb, a musician who becomes the incarnation of Nature. The narrative explores the balance between nature and civilization. For Love of Evil (1988) The sixth book tells the story of Parry, a man who becomes the incarnation of Evil. Parry must grapple with the moral implications of his role. And Eternity (1990) The seventh book brings together the characters from the previous novels as they confront a cosmic threat to existence. Under a Velvet Cloak (2007) The eighth and final book is a prequel that explores the origin of the character Orlene, who becomes the incarnation of Death.The Incarnations of Immortality series is known for its exploration of philosophical and moral themes within a fantasy framework. Piers Anthony combines elements of mythology, fantasy, and speculative fiction to create a unique and thought-provoking series. If you enjoy fantasy with a philosophical edge, this series might be of interest.
Anthony's writing style often blends adventure, humor, and philosophical elements. He has been recognized for his ability to create immersive worlds and complex characters. Beyond his novels, he has written short stories, essays, and collaborated on various projects within the speculative fiction genre. Throughout his career, Piers Anthony faced criticism for certain aspects of his writing, including the portrayal of women in some of his works. However, he remained a prolific and influential figure in the science fiction and fantasy community, with a dedicated fan base.
Macroscope
Macroscope, a visionary work of science fiction published in 1969, stands as a testament to his imagination and storytelling prowess. Born out of the tumultuous era of the late 1960s, this novel transcends its time, offering readers a compelling journey through the cosmos and the depths of human consciousness. Piers Anthony, a prolific author known for his imaginative worlds and intricate plots, crafted Macroscope as a meditation on the nature of knowledge, power, and the interconnectedness of all things. Set in a distant future where humanity has unlocked the secrets of interstellar travel and communication, the novel follows a diverse cast of characters as they grapple with the discovery of an enigmatic device known as the macroscope.At the heart of the story lies the macroscope itself, a powerful instrument capable of peering into the furthest reaches of the universe and revealing the hidden truths of existence. As the protagonists delve deeper into its mysteries, they are confronted with profound questions about the nature of reality and the limits of human understanding. Through vivid prose and intricate world-building, Anthony paints a rich tapestry of alien worlds, ancient civilizations, and cosmic phenomena, inviting readers to explore the wonders of the universe alongside his characters. Yet, amidst the grandeur of the cosmos, Macroscope remains grounded in the human experience, exploring themes of friendship, love, and the search for meaning in a vast and unfathomable universe.
As the characters grapple with the implications of their discoveries, they are forced to confront their own beliefs and prejudices, challenging readers to reconsider their own assumptions about the nature of existence. With its thought-provoking narrative and philosophical undertones, Macroscope invites readers on a journey of exploration and introspection, encouraging them to look beyond the confines of their own worldview and embrace the infinite possibilities of the cosmos. Since its publication, Macroscope has captivated readers with its blend of science fiction spectacle and existential inquiry, earning widespread acclaim for its imaginative scope and literary ambition. Piers Anthony's visionary novel continues to inspire readers to contemplate the mysteries of the universe and the boundless potential of the human spirit.
A Spell for Chameleon
Piers Anthony, a luminary in the realm of fantasy literature, introduced readers to the enchanting world of Xanth with his captivating novel A Spell for Chameleon in 1977. Born from Anthony's boundless imagination and wit, this inaugural installment in the Xanth series has enthralled generations of readers with its whimsical charm, clever wordplay, and imaginative storytelling. Set in the magical land of Xanth, where every inhabitant possesses a unique magical talent, A Spell for Chameleon follows the journey of Bink, a young man cursed with the inability to demonstrate any magical ability. Determined to prove his worth and avoid exile to Mundania, the non-magical world beyond Xanth's borders, Bink embarks on a quest to discover his hidden talent and break the curse that plagues him.As Bink traverses the fantastical landscapes of Xanth and encounters a colorful cast of characters, including a talking centaur, a beautiful sorceress, and a wise old magician, Anthony weaves a tale of adventure, humor, and self-discovery. Through Bink's trials and tribulations, readers are invited to explore themes of identity, destiny, and the power of perseverance in the face of adversity. With his trademark wit and wordplay, Anthony creates a world that is as whimsical as it is imaginative, populated by puns, riddles, and fantastical creatures at every turn. From the magical talents of the inhabitants to the intricate rules of Xanth's reality, A Spell for Chameleon delights in the intricacies of its own mythology, inviting readers to lose themselves in its enchanting landscapes and clever twists of fate.
Since its publication, A Spell for Chameleon has captured the hearts and imaginations of readers around the world, earning widespread acclaim for its inventive world-building, engaging characters, and playful narrative style. Piers Anthony's introduction to the world of Xanth remains a beloved classic of fantasy literature, enchanting readers of all ages with its timeless tale of magic, adventure, and the power of believing in oneself.
Source and additional information: Piers Anthony