The book, Percy Jackson and the Olympians, The Lighting Thief, was written in 2005 by Rick Riordan. The story follows 12-year-old, Perseus “Percy” Jackson who always seems to be getting into some kind of trouble. In the beginning, Percy goes on a field trip with his class from boarding school. While the other students are eating lunch, his pre-algebra teacher, Mrs. Dodds, turns into a monster and tries to kill him. After several more incidents, Percy eventually ends up at Camp Half-Blood where he learns that he is a demigod and that Greek myths and monsters are not just myths after all. Soon after he arrives, Percy is sent back out on a quest: To find Zeus’s stolen master lightning bolt. Throughout the story, Percy forms meaningful friendships, experiences betrayal, and fights many monsters. The main genres of this book are adventure and fantasy, and it explores themes including heroism and family.

This book is extremely entertaining. Riordan wrote Percy as a highly likable and relatable character. Percy puts his family before himself and is a loyal friend. He knows how to joke around, but Percy also knows how to be quick and calculating while fighting to save his life and battle monsters. The concept of the story is incredibly creative, for Riordan is able to bring Mount Olympus to New York City and incorporate Greek Gods into modern-day society. The book is very action filled and there is never a dull moment. Percy has encounters with the Minotaur, Medusa, and other well-known mythological monsters. However, it is important to keep in mind that the books are not completely accurate to Greek mythology. There are several instances where certain details do not match up with Greek Myth. Those who are looking to learn particular details and precise descriptions of Greek Mythology similar to the Iliad or Odyssey may not enjoy Percy Jackson. Additionally, the story is so fast-paced that it can almostfeel too rushed at times. One event occurs immediately after another. This keeps the reader’s attention but can also cause confusion.

To conclude, I personally recommend this series. You should read this book if you are looking for a fun, exciting, and enticing read. This book is great for a student who is stressed out and needs a distraction to keep their mind off of school for some time. Percy is an admirable character and the story teaches the importance of perseverance and determination. This book is perfect for those who are looking to become knowledgeable in Greek Mythology but do not know where to start. The story gives a basic understanding of myths that can allow people to become eager to learn Greek Mythology in greater detail. Percy Jackson and the Olympians, The Lighting Thief, is a book for those who want to read something that will make them laugh while simultaneously keeping them on the edge of their seat.