In Xanth, everyone has a talent. But that doesn’t mean everybody loves his talent, no one understands that much better than Hapless. Endowed with the ability to conjure any device he wants, Hapless could be an extraordinary musician only if he could play a tune that didn’t fall ear-piercingly level. His one desire is certainly to find a musical instrument he can perform. When the Good Magician hears about Hapless’s desperate desire, he sends the son on a mission to get the elusive Isis Orb, a marvelous talisman that could fulfill his wish. Setting out to attain the impossible, Hapless fits an eclectic mixture of creatures that sign up for him on his trip, all with wants they wish the Isis Orb will give.