The Lightning Thief

Modern Mythology

• What: The Lightning Thief
• When: 10 years and up
• Why: Entertaining, educational, multiple ages
• Where: Amazon

Got a kid who enjoys fantasy novels? Want to inject some serious education into their reading? Under the guise of modern fantasy fiction, Rick Riordan’s The Lightning Thief offers kids a thrilling ride through the twists and turns of Greek mythology, all set against a backdrop of modern day woes.

The Lightning Thief book on Amazon

The first of the five book series featuring Percy Jackson and The Olympians, this book introduces the main character. Percy Jackson learns he’s the descendant of the gods from Greek mythology. When someone steals Zeus’ lightning bolt with nefarious plans, Percy must travel across the United States with his new companions to retrieve the weapon and clear his name. From summer camps filled with mythical creatures to the depths of the underworld, kids can relate to Percy and his trials and tribulations.

Parents will love all the educational tidbits packed into a format kids can’t resist. All three of my kids at ages seven, nine, and eleven, love this story, and have read or listened to it multiple times. This book works great for reading out loud to younger listeners, while older kids can read it at their own pace. Even better, with five books in the series, there’s plenty more action to keep kids turning the pages long after this book finishes.

Filled with loads of mythological references and packed with action that will keep kids enthralled, these books will delight kids and parents alike.