The Lightning Thief

Monday, March 15, 2010

I think if you've noticed by now, I really was -- still am? -- a big Harry Potter nerd. I practically grew up with those books. So when the series ended, I started searching for others that would fill that tiny 'void' Harry Potter left. And after a bunch of unfulfilling series to another unfulfilling series, I started to lose hope. Lately though, I have been hearing so much positive reviews from friends and other book bloggers about The Lightning Thief. Finally, I gave in and decided to give it a try.
For this review, I will not give a full synopsis. You can find it here though if you'd like to check it out.

Actual review: To put it simply; I loved this book.
I know this is mainly written for children, tweens, and maybe some YA, but I have to say, I recommend this to adults as well. In fact, this is the kind of book that will be appreciated by any age group. It just goes to show, that if the book's plot, characters, story line, and the writing are entertaining, interesting, and intriguing, there is no such thing as an age limit.
As I said, I thought that the story itself was simply entertaining, and actually has substance. I loved that it centers around Greek mythology as well -- definitely original. The main characters are also just so likable. They're believable, and very easy to relate to. As for the twists and turns, I feel as if they are done just right. Honestly, I can't think of any reason how anyone would dislike this book. Add to that the addicting writing that is of Rick Riordan's, and I don't know how anyone can resist this.
In my opinion actually, I believe this is the only successful and fulfilling fantasy series after Harry Potter. I loved the fact though, that The Lightning Thief is an entirely different series on its own. It does not try to be a copy cat, which I appreciate, as I can not tell you how many I have read that has tried to do so. I will not mention any names, but if you can think of any, leave a comment and it'll be our little secret. Haha.
Overall, I just really enjoyed this first offering of the 'Percy Jackson and the Olympians' series. In fact, right after I finished this, I went straight to Target -- where books are just cheaper -- and bought the second installment, The Sea of Monsters. I can't wait to finish that one as well, and head on to the third.. and the fourth.. and the last. If you have not read it yet, do so soon!

Note: I haven't seen the movie, but will, as soon as the DVD comes out.

9 comments:

  1. The series just keeps getting better...trust me! I can't put it down, and I'm on the fourth one now! Glad to hear you liked it :)

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  2. I have heard of this book but I haven't read it yet. I will keep an eye on it.

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  3. +JMJ+

    This is already one of my favourite series. I love the Greek mythology! I had been staying away from Fantasy because I wasn't crazy about all the new "sub-creations" I was running into, but this one, which takes its cue from the classical "sub-creation" is just perfect!

    If you don't mind a bit of "book blasphemy," think I like Rick Riordan better than J.K. Rowling! =P

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  4. Sorry, I messed up with my link. My website is: http://passionatebooklover.com/

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  5. Harry Potter was HUGE in this household, right up next to Tolkien. Mr. L-S is reading The Lightning Thief right now (wants to see the movie too). This is indeed a series that appeals to all age groups. Isn't it wonderful to know that myth still holds its power?

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  6. @Melissa: I am almost done with The Sea of Monsters and you're so right, it is getting better.

    @Andreea: I recommend it :)

    @Enbrethiliel: Aaaawww =/
    Haha. Book blasphemy is alright here :) To tell you the truth I'm more of a fan of Harry Potter, as the the series itself, rather than JK Rowling ;) I really do like Rick Riordan. I will for sure read more of his work when I get the chance :)

    @ds: I actually really want to check out the movie soon as well. I don't know if I can wait until the DVD release. Haha.
    I have always loved Greek mythology as well and has always been so incredible to me -- the myths, the creatures, etc.

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  7. Hi Jillian!

    It's YOUR turn!

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    Claim it here:
    http://bookblabbing.blogspot.com/2010/03/awards-thank-you-so-much-everyone.html

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  8. My advice: Wait for the DVD. The movie goes off in a completely different direction...and not in a good way. Most of the characters introduced in the book aren't even mentioned - no Ares, no Clarisse, no Dionysus (spelling?), no Oracle.

    The movie's main theme is locating some magic pearls that will allow the Heroes to leave Hell once their business there is done.

    The books (I've read them all so you can be jealous LOL) are great. Don't waste money on the movie.

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  9. This series is amazing! The movie doesn't have a lot of things that are in the book ( like the people and the prophecies) but it was still a great movie! The next book in this series after The Last Olympian is The Lost Hero and the Son of Neptune and those two books are just as amazing with some new and old characters.

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