Title: The Lightning Thief
Author: Rick Riordan
Publisher: Disney Hyperion
Pub Date: June 28, 2005
Format: Paperback
Pages: 375
Source: Purchased
Genre(s): Middlegrade, YA, Mythology
Rating: ★★★★
Goodreads || Buy on Amazon

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Synopsis from Goodreads:

Percy Jackson is a good kid, but he can’t seem to focus on his schoolwork or control his temper. And lately, being away at boarding school is only getting worse—Percy could have sworn his pre-algebra teacher turned into a monster and tried to kill him. When Percy’s mom finds out, she knows it’s time that he knew the truth about where he came from, and that he go to the one place he’ll be safe. She sends Percy to Camp Half Blood, a summer camp for demigods (on Long Island), where he learns that the father he never knew is Poseidon, God of the Sea. Soon a mystery unfolds and together with his friends—one a satyr and the other the demigod daughter of Athena—Percy sets out on a quest across the United States to reach the gates of the Underworld (located in a recording studio in Hollywood) and prevent a catastrophic war between the gods.

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My review:

“It’s funny how humans can wrap their mind around things and fit them into their version of reality.”

I want to say that I’m surprised by how much I loved this book, but I can’t. I’ve heard nothing but good things. In my opinion, every (good) review I read was true.

I feel like I was one of the last people on Earth to pick up The Lightning Thief, but I have no regrets. Just like the Harry Potter books, you can love Percy Jackson and his monster-fighting friends at any age.

I absolutely love the Greek mythology that is entwined into Percy’s adventures. Even more than that, I love how ADHD and dyslexia are frequently discussed amongst the demigods. I can’t remember the last time I read a book where the character struggled with these issues. And you have to admit that the rarity of learning disabilities in literature is odd considering how prevalent they are in today’s society.

Riordan’s writing is sharp and exciting. He paints the world we know with gods and goddesses as our secret neighbours, friends, and enemies. They’re around every corner, swimming in the sea, lounging up above, and lurking down below. Far below.

Consider me a new fan. I’m obsessed!

P.S. I watched half of the first movie and I had to stop. It was not good. No complaints about Logan Lerman though.