It's going to be difficult to describe this book without overusing the word "charming" - but it is charming, and nearly 100% of that charm comes from the wordplay, which is light and frothy and so distinctive. It's just so much fun to read, and one gets the impression that Rushdie had a lot of fun writing it. Not to mention the story itself is full of bizarre, amusing - and yes, charming - images. I'd love to see an illustrated version of it, especially of the rhyming fish (my favourites!).

Another book that I'll have to get my own copy of.