Riordan, Rick. 2005. THE LIGHTNING THEIF. New York: Hyperion Books for Children. ISBN 0-786-85629-7Having dyslexia and Attention Deficit Disorder isn’t exactly the description of your typical hero with super powers. However, Percy Jackson just happens to fit this description. With a god for a father and mortal as a mother, our hero is a demi-god. His character is scrutinized throughout the story by the other players: is he worthy of his position? Time and again, Percy’s bravery and intelligence are tested. His friends, Annabeth and Grover, accompany him on his quest. Each of the trio brings his or her own special qualities to the journey. Annabeth is smart and brave. Grover, a satyr, has an innate sense of direction and is a devoted friend. Together they seek Zeus’ lightning bolt and the thief who stole it. On the quest, tests similar to those experienced by Odysseus must be passed. Riordan makes continual references to Greek mythology and writes in third person, keeping the reader abreast of Percy’s thoughts. With battles including monsters and gods, this ‘good triumphs over evil’ book engages readers and maintains an energetic pace with not a dull moment.
Also in this entertaining series are THE SEA OF MONSTERS (#2); THE TITAN’S CURSE (#3); and, released on May 3, 2008, THE BATTLE OF THE LABYRINTH (#4).
This high fantasy novel—and the others in the series—are very highly recommended for readers grades 5-8.
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