The Color of Her Panties

Infobox Book |
name = The Color of Her Panties


image_caption =
author = Piers Anthony
country = United States
language = English
cover_artist = Darrell K. Sweet
series = Xanth series
genre = Fantasy novel
publisher = Avon Books
release_date = September 1992
media_type = Print (Paperback)
pages = 334 pp (paperback 1st printing)
isbn = ISBN 0-380-75949-7
preceded_by = Question Quest
followed_by = Demons Don't Dream

"The Color of Her Panties" is the fifteenth book of the Xanth series by Piers Anthony. Some critics have complained that the title is misogynistic, though many of Anthony's fans have been strongly inclined to dismiss this allegation.

Plot introduction

Mela Merwoman, one of the protagonists of "The Color of Her Panties", was introduced in "Heaven Cent" attempting to trick Prince Dolph into marrying her. Still desperate for a husband, Mela goes to ask the Good Magician Humfrey to find her a suitable mate. On the way, she joins forces with a civilized ogre named Okra and a positive young woman named Ida, who bears a striking resemblance to Princess Ivy.

Meanwhile, adolescent Gwenny Goblin, Che Centaur and Jenny Elf are trying to help Gwenny beat out her half-brother Gobble for chiefship of the goblin horde.

Plot summary

Xanthchar
Primary=Gwenny
Major=Che Jenny Nada Ida OkraMela, like all merpeople, is able to turn into a full human so that she can walk on land. To follow "landbound custom", she finds clothing and shoes (conveniently growing on trees, as is common on Xanth). Of particular concern is which panties to choose - after all, there is significant interest in the color of her panties. After trying on dozens of pairs, Mela finally decides on plaid.

Gwenny has to prove her courage to become leader of Goblin Mountain. Her task is to steal an egg from the Roc's nest. The two storylines are brought together when Mela has to help save Gwenny from a Roc and a hard place.