Book Review for: The Battle of the Labyrinth

Book Review for: The Battle of the Labyrinth
Written by: Rick Riordan
Disney/Hyperion
ISBN: 978-142-310149-9
Avail: print and ebook
4 Stars

Riordan's imagination soars as high as Icarus with this installment of the Percy Jackson Series – The Battle of the Labyrinth. Percy's a freshman in high school now, but his summer at Camp Half-Blood promises to keep him on his toes. There's new friends, new foes, a new quest, and as the danger grows closer, Percy discovers trust can be complicated.

The story opens with Percy attending high school orientation at his new school. Immediately, he meets up with his mortal friend, Rachel Elizabeth Dare and is attacked by demon cheerleaders, the empousa. Percy wins the day and finds his way to Camp Half Blood where he learns about Daedalus' Labyrinth. It still exists and there's a secret entrance to Camp Half Blood. If Luke finds it, then Kronos and his minions are sure to attack. Percy's friend, Annabeth, gets to lead a quest into the Labyrinth, but everyone on the journey has an agenda. Will Grover find Pan? Can Percy and Annabeth find Daedalus? Will Nico, the son of Hades, prove himself friend or foe? Has Kronos gained enough strength to take human form? Percy and his friends can only hope for the best.

Riordan opens the novel with Percy and Rachel battling the demon cheerleaders. The action grabs the reader and the mystery of the Labyrinth keeps them turning the page. The plot moves at a good clip. Riodan's writing is sharp, witty, and easy to read.

As with Riordan's other books in the series, he continues to bring the ancient Greek heroes and their stories to life in a way modern readers can related to. Riordan's creativity shines.

The characters are very likable. Percy is easy to relate to. He's a great friend, heroic, and always does the right thing despite his challenges. Annabeth, Grover, and Rachel each have very human elements that allow them to connect with readers.

The Battle of the Labyrinth is fast paced and breathtaking. Readers 9 years-old and up will enjoy this book. It can be read as a stand alone, but it fits into the series nicely. I highly recommend this story to all who enjoy young adult and middle school novels.

****

I am really enjoying reading the Percy Jackson series with my son Andrew. Anyone else enjoyed/enjoying the series? Sign in if your a Percy Jackson fan!

Smiles
Steph