The Lightning Thief by Rick Riordan
I finally got around to reading this, months after Amber (10) was raving about it. It’s no wonder she loves this series. It’s full of adventure and mythology, trustworthy friends and angry monsters.
Percy Jackson is having a tough time. He’s being kicked out of boarding school, but that’s the least of his problems. Percy’s discovered he’s a demi-god, son of Poseidon, but, not only that, he’s accused of stealing Zeus’ lightning bolt, which explains why all the monsters are after him.
In a way, it’s nice to know there are Greek gods out there, because you have somebody to blame when things go wrong. For instance, when you’re walking away from a bus that’s just been attacked by monster hags and blown up by lightning, and it’s raining on top of everything else, most people might think that’s just really bad luck; when you’re a half-blood, you understand that some divine force really is trying to mess up your day. (pg 168)
He’s only got ten days to find the lightning bolt and basically save the world. Luckily he’s got the help of a couple of amazing friends.
This is just pure fun to read. I enjoy the twist the book takes on traditional Greek mythology. It’s not textbook, but at least it makes kids interested in those tales and characters, familiar with the names and some of the basics. Percy and his friends, a satyr and a daughter of Athena, face a lot of obstacles on their quest, monsters, gods, a trip to the Underworld, but through it all they are brave, loyal and really just doing their best. No wonder middle grade kids love the series. It’s one of Amber’s favorites, I know, and she has mentioned a slew of her friends that love it, too.
I will say, though, that if you’re expecting the movie just in a book, don’t. The plot is entirely different, although I did keep picturing the scenes and actors from the movie while I was reading.
I can’t wait to read the next in the series. Thankfully, Amber already owns them all.
Percy Jackson and the Olympians #1
First published 2001
375 pages
Challenges: 100+, A to Z
Amber received our copy as a gift and the above is my honest opinion. I am an Amazon associate.
Yay! Another adult converted to a FUN children’s book. I loved this one…but haven’t gotten around to reading the rest of the series yet. I remember being seriously entertained, though. Enjoy the rest!
Hm I have been thinking of reading them ever seen a saw that movie
My son’s getting ready to graduate from college and he listened to this book and really enjoyed it. Of course, he loves mythology.
Aidan and I really enjoyed the movie but we both love the book even more. I’m glad to hear you enjoyed it so much.
Read the whole series and realy enjoyed them, great stuff for teenagers i think.
I haven’t read any books in this series but have certainly heard about them. I watched the movie and quite liked it. 🙂