When I say that this book was my childhood, I’m not lying. This book was the first book I ever read, the book that made me fall in love with reading and the book that made me realize i was missing out on something I didn’t even know existed. As a twelve-year-old this was probably the greatest thing that could have happened to me.
The Lightning Thief, the first installment of the Percy Jackson & The Olympians series, is a spellbinding tale that introduces readers to a world where Greek mythology blends seamlessly with the modern-day.
At the forefront is Percy Jackson, a twelve-year-old boy with dyslexia and ADHD, who unexpectedly discovers his divine heritage as a demigod. Percy’s character is a breath of fresh air, blending vulnerability, resilience, and wit in a way that resonates with readers of all ages. Riordan beautifully captures Percy’s internal struggles and normalizes the behavioral traits that are increasingly normal by associating them with that of a hero and demigod, forging a connection that allows readers to root for him as he embarks on a treacherous journey filled with mythical creatures and ancient prophecies. Percy’s character had been formally adopted by me at a young age and led to me being that most sarcastic adolescent alive (a fact that my parents will never forget).
The main revolving point in this book and the series as a whole are the friendship dynamics that are established throuout. Percy’s best friend, Grover Underwood, is a satyr with a heart of gold. Grover is kind-hearted, loyal, and a constant source of comic relief. His unwavering support for Percy, despite his own insecurities, adds a layer of depth to their friendship and reinforces the themes of loyalty and selflessness.
Annabeth Chase, the daughter of Athena, is another standout character. As the resident brains of the trio, Annabeth is intelligent, brave, and fiercely determined. Her quick thinking and strategic prowess make her an indispensable ally in Percy’s quest. But what sets Annabeth apart is her complexity as a character; she is not just a sidekick or love interest but a fully developed individual with her own ambitions and struggles.