Percy Jackson by Rick Riordan is a young adult, fantasy fiction series of books about 12-year old Percy in the most dangerous quest of his life. And by quest, I mean not just your ordinary homework type of quest.

Why I picked this book up

Two things that initially caught my attention were, first, the title “The Lightning Thief”, and second, its book cover, a boy holding a bronze sword, standing on knee-high water in front of buildings, under what seemed to be an apocalyptic storm. Although it has been said not to judge a book by its cover, like literally a book and its cover, I usually judge a book by its cover.

Why I kept reading this book

I had always been a big fan of myths and legends, especially Greek mythology, ever since way back in high school. My sister and I even used to collaborate on a story about a group of teenage kids, later discovering they’re somewhat related or have descended from Greek gods and goddesses, situated in present time. Our idea and Rick Riordan’s were actually almost similar– the ideas altogether were generic.

Percy Jackson & The Olympians, to me, is like a combination of American Gods and Good Omens both by Neil Gaiman (with Terry Pratchet for the latter). The plot is a mix of mythological gods and goddesses in the present world, mixed in with a sense of humor. Unlike American Gods, Percy Jackson is definitely for the kids or the kids-at-heart, like me.

The story is told in a first-person narrative by Percy Jackson himself. In his way of unfolding the events of what is happening, the characters add humorous and witty comments. It isn’t very predictable and it makes the mind work a lot. The mystery and creativity in the story make it so lovable.