One cannot help but compare this book to the Discworld series, but this is far from copycat material. On the contrary, Baker pokes fun at the tired devices of fantasy while creating an extremely unique and compelling fantasy world of her own. I could never quite tell if this book was supposed to be completely silly (like Terry Prachett or Douglas Adams) or if it's just humor-tinged but ultimately a serious story. Somewhere in between, I'd say. But regardless this makes for an enjoyable and engaging tale that is nothing but fun to read.