Orconomics by J. Zachary Pike puts a satirical spin on the traditional tale of high fantasy adventurers fighting for the good of the realm by asking one simple question: What would an economy fueled by quests and adventures look like? In the world of Arth, Dwarf, Elf, Human, and other Lightkin corporations stake claims on monster hoards and ruthlessly oppress the opposition. To avoid being murdered for company profit margins, Orcs, Goblins, and other Shadowkin must acquire Noncombatant Papers or risk being killed by a group of professional adventurers.

Our tale follows Gorm Ingerson, an alcoholic retired professional adventurer drowning his survivor's guilt in liquor. After standing up for an undocumented Goblin, Gorm is hired by a prophet of the mad goddess Al'Matran for one final quest – a quest just as insane as the goddess herself, a quest to save the kingdom and become heroes, a complete redemption in the eyes of society, a redemption that Gorm desperately craves.

One of many things that J. Zachary Pike does well is showing darkness and corruption in a satirical and lighthearted manner. The book has many puns, creative jokes, and a general sense of cheer. Furthermore, the characters themselves are fully fleshed out. They have their motives, opinions, and ideals, leading to situations of conflict and tension that appear real. This book is desirable for anyone bored by the stagnancy of high fantasy and proves to be an intriguing and comedic read.

Review by: Tristan

Tristan is an 11th grader, Dungeon Master, Poet, Future Engineer, avid reader, and lover of fiction, fantasy, and sci-fi.

—Rachael Zak, Young Adult Librarian, Woodland Hills Branch Library