“Percy Jackson and the Olympians; The Lightning Thief”

Author: Rick Riordan

This was a very interesting book. I’ve never been more educated in Greek mythology than any other fantasy fiction I have read. The history of all the Greek gods was flowing throughout the story. I thought maybe all the talk of historical mythology would eventually bore me, but it didn’t. It all had a reason and a purpose making it more of a pleasure to read than a chore. The characters were unique and fun to read about. But, there was a major drawback that affected me personally. They were really young. I find it hard to believe that a twelve year old kid could travel all the way to LA, by himself, with a couple of friends, meanwhile, killing monsters that seek to harm them. Is it just me or is that a little farfetched?

Twelve year old Percy Jackson has failed years of school because of his dyslexia and ADHD. And just when he thought school couldn’t get any worse, one of Percy’s teachers transforms into a vicious “Fury”. His best friend Grover is hiding information, and his Greek Mythology teacher is in on it too. But when you’re a “Demigod”, half human and half god, it’s hard to keep from running into immortal trouble, especially when they are accusing you of stealing Zeus’s lightning bolt. Barely making it to “Half Blood Hill”, Percy learns more about who he is, and the dangerous quest he must soon embark on. But he won’t be alone; Annabeth and Grover are ready to stand by his side no matter what, even if it means visiting the underworld.  

All in all, I thought it was pretty good. It was a little strange now and then, but none the less entertaining. The ending was good, but you’re obviously going to have to read the next four books in order to be fully satisfied. I plan on reading the rest. But I’m not sure if I liked book one enough to add it to my list of favorites. Have any of you seen the movie based on this book? Comparing the movie to the book, I have to say, they didn’t follow it quite right at all. And if you’re a fan of the book, I can image that is a major disappointment. Plus, some of the actors for the characters didn’t quite fit their description in the book, like Annabeth. But, the movie seemed to be a bit more realistic to me since it staged the characters as teenagers, rather than twelve year olds. The book and movie are both entertaining. I think they did a pretty good job on the movie.