Book Review for: The Mark of Athena by Rick Riordan #bookreview

Book Review for: The Mark of Athena

Written by: Rick Riordan

ISBN: 978-142314060-3

Avail as: an ebook and in print

5 Stars

The Mark of Athena is an adrenaline rush that promises more heat than Leo's fingertips. Annabeth, Jason, Piper and Leo meet up with Percy, Hazel, and Frank. The quest is on! Unfortunately, the assembled demigods face one challenge after another on their trek to find the Mark of Athena.

The story opens with Annabeth, Jason, Piper, and Leo finding Camp Jupiter. Sadly, the Roman camp is attacked. Percy and his friends flee in the Argo II with the Romans hot on their trail.

The novel focuses on Annabeth and her quest to follow the Mark of Athena. The mark will lead her to the Athena Parthenos which will unite the Roman and Greek demigods. This is necessary to take on Gaea and her minions who are threatening to take over the world.

While not physically as strong as Jason and Percy, Annabeth finds her cunning and wits put to the test. She must figure out the map that leads to the Parthenos and retrieve the statue from its hiding place on her own. Meanwhile her friends battle Eidolons, sea creatures, and Gaea's minions, while on a mission to free Nico di Angelo from the grotesque giants, Otis and Ephialtes. Can Percy and his friends save the day and put Gaea's plans on the rocks?

Riordan's writing is easy to read. In fact, I had to remind myself to slow down so I didn't miss anything. He's a master at making Greek and Roman myths interesting to young readers. His characters are compelling – each layered with flaws and doubts that make them wonderfully human.

 

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The pacing was perfect. The story opens with an exciting battle and breathless chase, slowing down in just the right places to let the reader catch their breath before picking up again. And let's not forget there's an ending that leaves you biting your nails.

"The Mark of Athena" is geared for a young adult audience, nine-years-old and above. I highly recommend it. The story is an exciting read that will leave you breathless.

Book Review Friday - The Son of Neptune by Rick Riordan #bookreview #percyjackson

Book Review for: The Son of Neptune

Written by: Rick Riordan

Hyperion Books

ISBN: 978-1-4231-4059-7

Available in print and ebook

5 Stars

Percy Jackson is back with a taunt, suspenseful quest in "The Son of Neptune." Percy's lost his memory, but is guided to the Roman demigod city, "Camp Jupiter" where he meets Hazel and Frank. A demigod's work is never done, though. Percy and his friends are given a quest by Mars to free Thanatos (Death) from Gaea's giant, Alcyoneus. Against impossible odds can they succeed?

The novel opens with gorgons chasing Percy. While re realizes his memory is gone, he knows this – the gorgons are supposed to remain dead when he kills them. Weary to the bone, he finds Juno disguised as a "hippie" and manages to make it to the safety of Camp Jupiter with the help of his new friends, Hazel and Frank. The Romans accept Percy, and soon he's selected to go on a quest to Alaska with Hazel and Frank to free Death. (Thanatos)

Riordan's writing engages the senses. Quick and easy to read, Riordan layers his words with subtle clues and emotional nuances that are easy to miss if one reads to quickly. The plot moves at a brisk pace, keeping the reader flipping the pages. Tight and suspenseful, the story hints at secrets, which threaten to turn Percy's world upside-down.

Riordan's characters are interesting, filled with human faults, which make them relatable to younger readers. Percy is fearless, but out of his element. Hazel is brave, but doubts her choices. Frank is unsure, but faces his fears with true courage. What Riordan does well is bring the Greek and Roman myths into a modern world, giving them a unique story that is appealing to today's young adult audience.

"The Son of Neptune" engages all the senses. It will take your breath away and make your heart pound in your chest. The novel is geared for a young adult audience and I recommend it for readers ten and up.

Question for you: What do you think of the Percy Jackson movies?  Which one did you like better? Do you think the books capture the "flavor" of the books? Why or why not.

Book Review Friday - The Lost Hero by Rick Riordan #bookreview

Book Review for: The Lost Hero

Written by: Rick Riordan

Scholastic Publishing

ISBN: 978-0-545-46262-4

Avail: as print and ebook

5 Stars

Riordan pens a gem of a story with "The Lost Hero." The novel opens with Jason, Piper, and Leo attacked by storm spirits on their way to Wilderness School. But Jason has a problem – he's lost his memories. Can he lead his friends on a quest to prevent Gaia from awakening?

The story introduces three new heroes to Camp Half-Blood and a new problem – Gaia, mother Earth herself. Jason, a son of Jupiter, is heroic, fierce and brave, but a little unsure of his abilities. Piper is loyal and true, but can she rise above the challenges and prejudices a daughter of Aphrodite faces? Leo loves to fiddle with his hands, but are his inventions a help or a hindrance on their quest? These new heroes will be given plenty of tests to prove their worth, but can they overcome challenge after challenge?

Riordan's writing style is sharp and witty, appealing to a young adult audience. The plot takes plenty of twists and turns. Jason embodies the classic Greek hero. Piper and Leo appeal to the modern audience as Riordan shows not only the character's vulnerabilities and insecurities, but also their strengths. Piper proves that true love is more than skin deep, and Leo shines as a hero from the school of hard knocks.

What Riordan does best is give Greek mythology a modern twist, attracting modern young adults.

"The Lost Hero's" story appeals to readers of all ages and genres. The novel's endearing characters and suspenseful plot will have readers on the edge of their seats. A definite page-turner! I highly recommend this book.

BUY LINK: Amazon Ebook: http://amzn.com/B003TSEL7S 

Book Review for: "The Last Olympian"
Written by: Rick Riordan
Disney/Hyperion Books
ISBN: 978-142-310150-5
Avail as: ebook & print
4.5 Stars

Riordan delivers an action-packed, suspense-filled story with his final book in the "Percy Jackson and the Olympians" series titled "The Last Olympian." The battle is on between Kronos, his Titans, the Olympians, and the demigods. The prize is Earth and it's way of life. Who will win?

New York is under siege and the Titan Typhoon is wreaking havoc throughout America. The mist hides the truth from humans, but the demigods and Olympians struggle against the Titans. Percy leads Camp Half-Blood in the defense of New York, however things aren't what they seem. By the time the dust settles, Percy and his friends will have their courage, resolve, and inner strength tested. The final battle is packed with surprises.

Riordan's writing style is easy to read. There's adventure, fast-paced action, and plenty of suspense mixed in with the perfect does of tender, character revealing moments.

Percy's come a long way since his first adventure, displaying a rare maturity for his age. Nico diAngelo, Hades' son, also proves his worth. There are a lot of surprises in store for the demigods and how they face adversity defines their character. It's a lesson that will resonate with the novel's young reading audience.

Again, Riordan's done a wonderful job putting a modern twist on the ancient Greek legends, making them appealing for today's audience. The series inspires young readers to explore and read.

"The Last Olympian" is full of secrets, unexpected twists, and nail-biting suspense. Readers 9-years-old and up will enjoy this novel. I highly recommend it.

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

Book Review Tuesday - The Titan's Curse

Book Review for: "The Titan's Curse"
Written by: Rick Riordan
Hyperion Books
ISBN: 978-142310148-2
Avail in: Print and Ebook
4 Stars

Reviewed by: S. Burkhart

"Full of Action and Adventure!"

The Titans Curse is a suspenseful, edge-of-your-seat addition to the "Percy Jackson and Olympians" set. This is the 3rd book in the series. Percy is now fourteen. He's sent on a mission with his friends to recover two half-bloods, but Kronos' army wants them, too. What makes the diAngelos so special and what is "The Titan's Curse?"

The novel opens with a battle over the diAngelos, two half-bloods staying in a military-like school. The goddess, Artemis, intervenes to help. The diAngelos are saved, but Annabeth, Percy's friend, is kidnapped. Artemis goes on the hunt and sends her hunters to Camp Half Blood to keep them safe, putting her lieutenant, Zoe Nightshade, in charge.

While at Camp Half Blood, Zoe rubs everyone the wrong way. The Oracle also makes a surprising appearance with a prophecy. Soon, everyone learns Artemis is in danger and Kronos' minions want a child of the big 3 (Hades, Poseidon, Zeus) for a very evil purpose. Zoe takes Bianca, Grover, Thalia, Zeus' daughter, with her on the quest. Percy follows along, but is soon discovered. Action, adventure, and danger are on the menu. Can Percy and the Olympians find Artemis and Annabeth and prevent the titan's curse from coming to fruition?

Riordan's writing style is crisp, sharp, and easy to read. There's a very comfortable flow to his writing which pulls them along, making them feel like a member of Camp Half Blood.

What I enjoyed about the novel was how it appeals to younger readers. There's likable heroes and Riordan's modern take on the Greek gods make them interesting to a new, younger modern audience.

Watching Percy grow and interact with his friends is heartwarming. I love how the story has a very silent, but resonating message of the power of friendship, loyalty, and honesty.

Percy's a bit more mature as character, but still reckless in ways. He's loyal to the bone – especially to Annabeth. Thalia, Zeus' daughter, was also a delight to meet. When her loyalty is tested, Thalia finds strength in her noble lineage. What I enjoyed about the diAngelos and their mystery was trying to put the clues together to figure out who their Olympian parent was.

The ending does not disappoint. It's loaded with a lot of surprises and some heartwarming moments.

"The Titan's Curse" is a middle school/young adult fiction. I would recommend this story for 4th grade on up.

I'd love to hear your thoughts on Percy. Have you read a book? Watched the movie?