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Loading... The Lightning Thief (Percy Jackson and the Olympians, Book 1) (original 2006; edition 2006)by Rick Riordan
 fyrefly98 | Jan 13, 2012 | 
Reread recently. Missed out on a lot of stuff. Really really good. Fast read but good. (  ) nicdar111 | Jun 19, 2013 | Percy Jackson is a regular kid in grade 6, except that he seems to constantly be getting into trouble and kicked out of his schools. Little does he know, but he will soon find out, that his father is a god. Once he discovers this, for his own safety, he ends up at Camp Half-Blood, where he will train and possibly even go on a quest. I really liked this. Yes, it's similar to Harry Potter, as the main character turns 12 and suddenly learns something supernatural about himself. But, that's ok. It's still a lot of fun, and of course, bringing the mythological characters to life is also enjoyable. I will definitely be picking up the next book in the series at some point. (  ) LibraryCin | Jun 16, 2013 | Quick, entertaining read. I enjoy the premise - that the greek gods are still up to their mischief even in today's world - and thought the author did a fine job introducing a modern hero tale into it. I look forward to reading the next books. (  ) Snukes | Jun 14, 2013 | I did like this--enough I've already begun and am more than half way through the second book. Why I didn't like this more? Well, this was way, way too reminiscent of a certain other series... In this book, a young boy finds out he's a half-blood with magical powers. All his life strange things had happened around him. He's been living in an abusive household--but no worries. He's soon at a special school with other children with magical powers and artifacts, such as a cap that makes you invisible. He mostly hangs out with a somewhat klutzy if well-meaning sidekick and a super-smart girl, bossy, but a girl always with a plan... The kids are divided up into Houses, and one of them is filled with snotty little bullies. Oh, and one of the staff really has it in for our hero, whom he calls at one point, sarcastically natch, "our little celebrity." Harry Potter? No, Percy Jackson, demigod instead of wizard. You see: "Gods are still alive. They kind of follow Western Civilization around, living in the in the strongest countries, so like now they're in the U.S. And sometimes they have kids with mortals. Kids called half-bloods." However, not unlike Rowling's Harry Potter, this does have a sense of whimsy that I enjoyed--that I've missed with the end of Harry Potter, with that sense of a magical world alongside our own. Olympus is on the 600th floor of the Empire State Building. There's a Lotus Casino in Las Vegas, the Underworld is in Los Angeles, and as you'll find out in the next book, there's a reason for the disappearances in the Bermuda Triangle... And I admit, as someone who has always loved Greek mythology, I really enjoyed the game of spot-the-mythological creature. My friend the classicist really loves this series--she says it has the "Latin teacher seal of approval" and promised me it becomes more its own series as you go along. So far I'm enjoying the second book more than the first. I doubt this is going to match the Harry Potter books, which I thought had more depth in its world and characters--never mind the originality its clone lacks. But this does have its charms. It's entertaining light reading--and much, much better than the lackluster film made of it. ( ) LisaMaria_C | Jun 12, 2013 | I really loved this book. I can definitely see the differences between the movie and the book now that I have read it. I think this book would be great for any kids interested in mythology. I really enjoyed reading this book and plan to keep reading the series. Rachel_Cohen | Jun 9, 2013 | A fun, breezy read with a wonderful conceit tied a bit too much to what I can only describe as Harry Potter genre conventions (Half-Blood summer camp being an obvious inversion of Hogwarts). Quite clunky for the first third, it picks up speed as Percy Jackson leaves the magical summer camp behind and begins his quest to save the world from a war of the gods. You can quite literally see Riordan's writing get better as you read along. Fans of Greek myth will love this book. After awhile it becomes almost a game trying to figure out which mythical monster or demi-god will show up in modern trappings next. ( ) dgmillo | Jun 2, 2013 | Excellent little story that keeps you entertained and provides education at the same time; very easy to read ( ) longhorndaniel | May 29, 2013 | ANIMOTO http://animoto.com/play/9zCceSL1sq1w7DCpg6euGw http://animoto.com/play/FxgzjpmVwcfUL6zdB7JRcQ MrBronson | May 24, 2013 | Ok story. Spent the entire book wondering why everything was so obvious except to the characters. Don't know that I would read the rest of the series. ( ) lesmel | May 19, 2013 | Really loved the series, made my Greek mythology fanatic then 8 year old very happy. Rick Riordan has a gift for getting kids "right" and we have yet to miss anything he has written. ( ) Mirkwood | May 10, 2013 | This book will never break the intense suspense that is involved within the book, this book for me had no boring moments. With Annabeth, Percy, and Grover you go on a trail of defeat, anger, and betrayal. you can no put this book down. ( ) ANDREWWECH | May 7, 2013 | Very much fun. This was escapist for me but it was a combination of the adventure and the wonderful narrative voice. The fantasy and the whole child-of-a-god aspect was, if not restrained, portrayed in a way that kept the story very real seeming and kept the characters very real and very much their age. There were plenty of fantastical incidents and there was plenty of action but the personalities and the relationships, hopes and problems of the characters remained real and key. Suspension of disbelief was very easy for me and the way that's portrayed that the human witnesses deal with these incidents was so true to my experience that I laughed out loud. The Greek mythology was a great plus. I had a strong interest and learned a lot in my middle grade years and kept a couple browser tabs open to sites on the subject for reference for the duration. If you don't have an interest though, a lack of familiarity does not interfere with the story at all. I've already picked up the next two in the series and will probably get back to it within the next week or so. I've been told they get even better and am looking forward to what kind of adventure is next and curious as to how Mr. Riordan develops the characters. I hope Percy's two fellow questers remain central. It was a great combination. ( ) Yona | May 2, 2013 | After being kicked out of his sixth boarding school, twelve-year-old Percy Jackson travels to Camp Half Blood, where his real adventures finally begin. He discovers his true identity as the son of a Greek god and embarks on a quest in search of Zeus’ most prized possession. The first in the Percy Jackson and the Olympians series. KilmerMSLibrary | Apr 30, 2013 | Percy Jackson has never quite fit in. He gets in trouble constantly, whether he means to or not. But when his teacher tries to kill him, he discovers that he is a demigod. As he begins his life at Camp Half Blood, it becomes clear that he is the son of Poseidon. He also discovers that Zeus' lightning bolt was stolen, and he's the main suspect. As he, Annabelle (a daughter of Athena), and Grover (a young satyr) begin their quest to clear Percy's name, they find themselves up against a never-ending stream of gods and monsters. I enjoyed this book quite a bit. I think it's a great way to get students interested in mythology. Percy is a young boy, trying to discover his true identity. He also has ADHD and dyslexia, which is something that many students can relate to. The book does a number of wonderful modern interpretations of old Greek myths, but there are also several that are sub-par and inaccurate. All in all, it's a fun book and great for reluctant readers. Students as young as third grade can enjoy this book. ( ) Shelbya14 | Apr 24, 2013 | I liked it, but I'm not sure it's a solid three. I'm hoping that (as in the case of the first Harry Potter book...though it was still better than this one) the series gets stronger now that the characters are established. It was certainly better than the film, and as usual quite a lot different than the film. The author writes as much for himself and adults as he does for children. Some of his humor along with the Barry Manilow reference would have been lost on anyone under 35. If the series gets stronger, I'll leave this a three, if not...I'll change it to a two. ( ) Ameliapei | Apr 18, 2013 | I enjoyed The Lightening Thief. I didn’t find it that much like Harry Potter other than a few references here and there to “green eyes” and “dark hair.” Those parts were pretty annoying because it did seem like Riordan was trying to follow in Rowling’s footsteps, but those lines were far and few between. The story was interesting and fast paced. Within the first few pages, Percy is already attacked by a creature sent by Hades which pretty much let me know that I was in for an action packed story. Several times I was annoyed with Percy Jackson. He kept trusting random strangers. When he arrived at the Lotus Casino and he, Grover, and Annabeth are greeted by a very friendly stranger, Percy says something along the lines that he won’t trust anyone else because so far all the nice people have been monsters, but then they turn around and accept everything that the stranger offers them! It’s almost like something wasn’t clicking in Percy’s head and I was getting annoyed thinking that he wasn’t exactly the sharpest tool in the shed (and not because of his dyslexia). Overall, it was an interesting read and at some point I’ll venture on to book two. In terms of series, it’s still not up there with Harry Potter and The Hunger Games where I feel a dire need to go out and get the next book in the series. I’m still glad I gave Percy Jackson a chance though. ( ) russell.alynn | Apr 16, 2013 | predictable--but wonderful ( ) Ritastradling | Apr 15, 2013 | I finally read this the past weekend. I actually enjoyed it pretty well, which seems odd since I'm nowhere near the age of the 12-year old protagonist. The plot moved along quickly, and I really appreciated the subtle instruction in Greek mythology. The writing was clear, something else I appreciate a lot, and I enjoyed the characters. I have to admit that I often like book written for younger readers, especially if they're in the adventure story line. I like political and religious thrillers quite a lot, but sometimes it's nice to leave all the adult problems behind for a while. This was a good book for doing that. ( ) grothenberger | Apr 11, 2013 | Rick Riordan is an amazing author who combines suspense, humor, and mythology into a thrilling journey. Percy Jackson is an unlikely hero. He is a troubled kid with troubles at home. He has difficulties in school,too. I loved how Riordan has combined Greek mythology and quirky humor. I found myself believing in Percy's character, because his reactions were authentic. This coming of age story involves Percy discovering his best self. Will he be a tragic hero, or a great one? `Breton Kaiser-Shinn (  ) Breton07 | Apr 8, 2013 | Wonderful! Alternately hilarious and scary, this modern Greek myth story is one I'm forcing my son to read. Riordan's a delight, and Percy Jackson, son of Poseidon and a modern mortal woman, is deftly characterized and firmly drawn. His struggles with the Olympians as well as with his growing sense of self make for a ripping good yarn. It's well-written, believable, and Riordan such a fresh voice. I recommend this one highly. ( ) satyridae | Apr 5, 2013 | Listened to this again & have found it wonderful still. ( ) satyridae | Apr 5, 2013 | Love, love, love this book. It is so fun, really funny and an adventure. Screw Hogwarts, I want to live in Percy's world. ( ) akmargie | Apr 4, 2013 | Greek gods, summer camp, and evil stepfathers. This book is a lot of fun. ( ) maureene87 | Apr 4, 2013 | Percy Jackson tries to be good, but circumstances just don't allow him to be. Trouble always seems to find him. Let's not talk about what happens to his math teacher his sixth grade year... At the end of sixth grade, Percy and his mom take off for a trip to the beach. Late in the night, it sounds like a hurricane blows up and they're running for their lives. Percy winds up at Half-Blood Hill, a summer camp for the children of...Greek gods? An evil plot is afoot and Percy needs to clear his name and unravel the mystery with the help of his two friends, Annabeth and Grover. I loved this! I've always enjoyed mythology and this was an original take on the old myths for children. But don't think it's only for children--adults will enjoy it too. Percy, Annabeth and Grover are fantastic, smart, fun characters. I loved reading about how the toga-wearing Greek gods from my school days have morphed to fit into the twentieth century. (Is anyone really surprised that Ares rides a chopper?) The mystery kept me guessing and the action was just right. I highly recommend this for kids and adults who aren't afraid to read children's books. I'll be reading the rest of the series. ( ) JG_IntrovertedReader | Apr 3, 2013 | I think that should be enough shelves... ;) I REALLY wish my computer wasn't acting up, because it's been about a week since I finished this book... and I just finished book 4 in this series, and I can't remember what happened in which book now... SO, I stole the following from a friend's review... I'm just going to reword so it sounds like me! The main character, Percy Jackson, has ADHD and dyslexia, he gets into trouble... a lot. He's gotten kicked out of every school he's ever gone to, so he doesn't have a lot of friends. But deep down, he's a good kid who loves his mom and really wants to do well... except things just seem to constantly get in the way of that. After barely finishing sixth grade, and very nearly getting killed by his pre-algebra teacher, he makes a startling discovery: The Greek gods he has just learned about in history class are real, and he is much more closely entwined with them than he could ever imagine. Things start to make a lot more sense about Percy's past, but his knew knowledge ALSO opens up a whole new world of danger for him to get swept up in, with exciting and humorous results. With two new companions in tow (Grover the satyr, and Annabeth... *grin*), Percy must travel across the country and back in order to complete a quest, dodge monsters, save his mother, and stay alive. No easy task when his first destination is to confront Hades in the Underworld itself.... Yep. That sounds good. It was AWESOME! Plus it's chock-full of mythology... some of which I knew... some of which I had to pull out my [a:Edith Hamilton|13263|Edith Hamilton|http://photo.goodreads.com/authors/1204062329p2/13263.jpg] for... I just wish [b:Mythology|23522|Mythology|Edith Hamilton|http://photo.goodreads.com/books/1167419104s/23522.jpg|2625557] was formatted in a more user-friendly way... ( ) saraferrell | Apr 3, 2013 | |
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Review: Starting out, it was up in the air whether or not this book would work for me. I love mythology blended into my fiction (particularly Greek mythology), but mid-grade fantasy adventure novels typically aren't my favorite. Luckily, however, the mythology won me over, and I had a blast reading this book. Riordan doesn't just include some token gods as characters, he digs really deep into the mythology, and the way he layers aspects of the myths into his story gives the world he creates a feeling of completeness and complexity. It gave me a thrill every time I recognized some aspect of a familiar myth, placed in the new and creative backdrop of Riordan's world.
Another reason I enjoyed this book so much was that apart from Percy being only twelve, it doesn't really read like a mid-grade novel. The number of exclamation points is kept to a minimum, as are the fart jokes, and in general the humor is snarkier than I would have typically expected for this level. There's actually a nice mix, with both obvious punchlines and really subtle (but really funny) bits of humor that call back to the original myths. At the same time, it also succeeds as an adventure story; Percy's hero's quest has plenty of danger and action to go along with the laughs, and there are some decent twists and turns to the plot that keep the story moving. 4 out of 5 stars.
Recommendation: Great for kids and adults who like a solid fantasy adventure with an Olympus-sized mountain-full of mythology mixed in. Riordan explains the myths behind most of his plot points pretty well, but I still think that people with a decent grounding in Greek mythology will get the most out of this book. (