Reviews with content warning for Physical abuse - The Lightning Thief

I've been rereading this book 3-5 times a year for fifteen years now, and I still pick up on something new every time. There is something for everyone in this book, whether it's the mythology, the adventure, the friendship and found family themes, the humor, the positive ADHD representation, etc.

I've never encountered another author who understands and writes middle schoolers as accurately or with as much respect as Riordan does. I guess it's the teacher in him. Every one of these characters feels like a real person you could meet any day of your life, which is quite an accomplishment when half of them are immortal gods and monsters. Riordan isn't afraid to shy away from the darker parts of life, he but portrays them in an age-appropriate way that respects his young readers without either condescending or traumatizing.

This is genuinely my favorite novel of all time, and I recommend everyone read it at least once.

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kaibeast5544's review

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adventurous tense medium-paced

Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
Flaws of characters a main focus? No

4.75

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sharkzone's review

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adventurous dark funny hopeful inspiring lighthearted fast-paced

Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? N/A
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

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milesofkiles's review against another edition

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funny lighthearted mysterious fast-paced

Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

5.0

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chrisb913's review against another edition

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adventurous hopeful inspiring fast-paced

Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

This was the first time I've re-read The Lightning Thief in over a decade and it still holds up. The non stop fast pace of the book mixed with the characters sass and wit just makes for a great read. For me this book accomplishes exactly what it sets out to do, so it will always be a 5🌟 read for me. Excited to continue on with the rest of the series.

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