What The Lightning Thief is about:
Fantasy-adventure novel based on Greek mythology, it is the first novel in the Percy Jackson & the Olympians series, which charts the adventures of modern-day twelve-year-old Percy Jackson as he discovers he is a demigod, the son of a mortal woman and the Greek god Poseidon. Percy and his friends go on a quest to prevent a war between the gods Zeus, Poseidon and Hades.
Why I wanted to read it: Because I work in a middle school library and all of the kids are reading this series and the others by Riordan. And because I need to know what gets them so excited about each new book that is released!!
Source: Public Library for the audiobook
- I thought the narrator for this book was a perfect choice. His voice wasn't too old sounding and he actually made me think of Percy when he spoke (is that weird?)
- The action in the story never stopped and so this was a very fast audio book for me. I actually sat in my car a few times so that I could listen to just one more sentence!!
- I loved being able to talk to the students about listening to this one on audio. Many of the kids were very interested and hoped that I loved the book as much as them!
- Many, many aspects of this story felt almost parallel to Harry Potter. The powers, the invisibility hat, the three friends, going on a quest, losing your parents.....you get the picture.
Even though at times I thought the book was a bit cheesy (but it is targeted to 9-13), I can absolutely see why the students love it and I'm pretty sure that I will continue on with the rest of the series. Not sure if I will do them on audio books or read them, but either way I've found out that I love Greek mythology and want to read more about Percy Jackson and what happens next!!
Bookish Thoughts #28
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I have heard really good things about this book... and it's awesome that it is getting so many young boys/young men to read!!!
ReplyDeleteI almost downloaded the audio of this book just a few weeks ago and at the last minute, I changed my mind. I feel like I still want to read it, but I've put it off for awhile. I have to admit that the 'cheesy' factor did play into it as i got that vibe from a few reviews. That said, I've read many great reviews as well. Hmmm...still on the fence. P.S. I'm so envious of your job! ;)
ReplyDeleteWorking in a middle school library would be so much fun. Except, my kid never read books actually meant for his age. I still do battle with him over his lack of reading but when he does read, it's nearly always an adult book and non-fiction at that.
ReplyDeleteMy son loves this series.
ReplyDeleteI have seen this title around quite a bit and been curious but never really considered picking it up to read. It does sound like a great story. Thanks for the great review, Staci!
ReplyDeleteI've noticed also that kids just love this series. But it does sound, from your review, a little derivative. But maybe that's why they love it so much - you know, wanting more Harry, but there isn't any more, so now they have this!
ReplyDeleteI've wanted to start this series. I've heard nothing but good things. Someday I'll get to it!
ReplyDeleteMy son listened to this when he was in college and he loved all the mythology references!
ReplyDeleteNope not weird at all, sounds like the narration is perfect. I think I have a couple in this series but not sure whether they're on audio or kindle ... one of these days :)
ReplyDeleteThe Girl loved The Lost Hero, and once she gets through those books, she wants to start on this series. She loves Greek mythology, too, so they're perfect for her.
ReplyDeleteYou do have to remember the target audience when you read these books. To us adults they seem predictable and slightly cheesy, but to a 10 year old....high adventure. Glad you liked it!
ReplyDeleteI have read this, but not read on in the series yet... One day!
ReplyDeleteI watched the movie, it was ok :)
ReplyDeleteI am not a mythology fan so this series does not interest me.
ReplyDeleteI'm interested but my reading time is so limited that I don't see me getting to this anytime soon. Maybe when Gage is old enough to appreciate it.
ReplyDeleteI loved the movie I think I should get the book and read it.
ReplyDeleteI've heard a lot of good things about this series. I have this one on my shelf in printed format and have been meaning to read it.
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