In the sunny, permissive kingdom of Tryphême, King Pausole lives by one simple rule: avoid discomfort. He presides over a land with no restrictive laws, where people live as they please. This easy life is shattered when his daughter, Princess Aline, disappears. Forced into action, the king embarks on a search with his two advisors: Taxis, his rigid and pious secretary, and Giglio, his jovial and hedonistic page.

The Story

The book follows this odd trio's journey. It's less a frantic chase and more a wandering, comedic tour of the kingdom they rule. As they travel, their personalities clash wonderfully. Taxis is horrified by the kingdom's freedoms, while Giglio enthusiastically samples them. Their quest to find the princess reveals that her escape might be a rebellion against the very freedom her father champions. The search forces Pausole to look at his kingdom—and his relationship with his daughter—in a whole new light.

Why You Should Read It

This isn't just a silly adventure. Underneath the lighthearted tone and playful situations, Louÿs is playing with big ideas about liberty, responsibility, and happiness. King Pausole is a fantastic character—a lazy philosopher-king who is genuinely kind but has never been tested. The heart of the story is his dawning realization that love sometimes requires effort, even in a perfect world. It's witty, a bit cheeky in places, and full of warmth.

Final Verdict

Perfect for readers who enjoy classic, clever humor with a philosophical wink. If you like the comic spirit of Candide or the utopian musings of older tales, but want something that feels fresh and surprisingly relevant, you'll love this. It's a short, sunny, and smart escape that leaves you smiling and thinking.