A review by kimschouwenaar
The Lightning Thief by Rick Riordan

adventurous funny inspiring lighthearted 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? No

4.5

The sea does not like to be restrained.

Why in the gods' name did it take so long for me to start the Percy Jackson series? I want to hate y'all for gatekeeping it, but honestly, I only have myself to blame. I try to live without regret, but I truly regret not reading this as my 12-year-old self.

I've often heard people compare this to the Harry Potter series, and I can kinda see it: young boy realises he's a magical being, is swept off to a camp/school for magical beings, and ends up being involved in an event that involves the whole magical world. But you know what, Percy Jackson is a much better person than Harry Potter ever was, and I actually enjoyed this a lot more than the first HP book.

That being said, I don't just want to compare this to another, similar series. Overall, it's very well written, has great representation, and has relatable characters – yes, even to a 26-year-old adult. It's a great introduction into Greek mythology, and had I read this as a kid, I totally would've been one of those Greek mythology nerds. Hence, I will be diving into The Iliad and The Odyssey early 2024. 

Even strength has to bow to wisdom sometimes.

Moreover, Annabeth and Grover are literally the BEST side characters you can wish for in a novel. They portray my favourite kind of duo as the insanely smart girl and the much needed comic relief. Grover reminds me so much of Styles I might have to rewatch Teen Wolf... again.

Finally, I would like to close with my absolute favourite quote from The Lightning Thief:

I'd love to tell you I had some deep revelation on my way down, that I came to terms with my oen mortality, laughed in the fave of death, et cetera.
The truth? My only thought was: Aaaaggghhhhh!

Didn't I tell you Percy is super relatable? DIDN'T I???

Now please go enjoy this book before the long-awaited TV series airs.

If you have come this far, I am very much looking for more book friends! You can find me on:
IG: kimschouwenaar
TT: _kimschouwenaar
Goodreads: Kim Schouwenaar

I am also in the midst of creating an IG account specifically for my reading, writing and art journey, which you will be able to find under the username @shelvesofsanity! And I'm obviously on here, so feel free to send me a friend request! (:

- kim <3
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