Einhorn's novel was warmly received and widely praised upon its initial publication,[1] as were Shanower's illustrations; a review in Asimov's Science Fiction called it a "gorgeous book."

Omby Amby finds a white hair in his luxurious green beard, and common citizens confront wrinkles and back problems.

In their attempt to figure out why, Ozma and Glinda consult the Great Book of Records, but find cryptic references to the "Man Who Lives Backwards."

"Its front half was covered with red, blue, and green plumage, and out from among its feathers proudly emerged a bright yellow beak.

She must deal with altered versions of her familiar friends: the beautiful Glinda is old and worn, while the Tin Woodman is a human and very malevolent headsman, Nick Chopper.

Ozma must confront Tip, her own earlier male self, and take a journey to Absurd City to find the Man Who Lives Backwards; she must face mind-boggling confusions, and numerous Parrot-Oxes, before she can restore the familiar world she knows and loves.

In Obsidian City, the alternative version of Omby Amby calls himself Wantowin Battles — a name introduced by Ruth Plumly Thompson in her Ozoplaning with the Wizard of Oz (1939).