Percy Jackson and the Lightning Thief Discussion Questions by the Ranger and Hobbit on 7/13/20 This post contains affiliate links, you can find out more on our policies page or in the disclaimer at the bottom of the blog.
-Know Before You Read–
Book: The Lightning Thief (Percy Jackson and the Olympians, Book 1)
Author: Rick Riordan
Pages: 384
Published: 2005
Age Suggestion: 10+
Themes: Friendship, growing up, confidence.
Warnings: Kids in unstable family situations could find the premise hard to handle. mild violence and some scary imagery.
–Quick Summary–
The Percy Jackson series follows a young boy and his new friends as they set out on a quest to find the lightning bolt of the Greek god Zeus. Along the way, they encounter monsters and other Greek gods who may prove to be helpful or spell disaster for these brave adventurers. Danger mixed in with lighthearted humor, this book is sure to be a page turner. Percy Jackson takes you into a world hidden in plain sight, where you’ll learn about the Greek gods and their children as they venture on the quest to save the world as we know it.
–Why Read It-
The Percy Jackson books were the first series that introduced me to the joy of reading. I had read a few books before but never read just because I wanted to. The lighthearted humor made me laugh out loud and want to share the stories with my friends and family. I remember sitting down to read every chance I got and not wanting to stop for anything. I think many kids will have the same reaction as I did.
–Percy Jackson and the Lightning Thief Review: (Contains Spoilers)–
Perseus (Percy Jackson) is a normal 12 year old boy, living with his mother. But strange things seem to happen around him. He finally finds out that the Greek gods and goddesses really do exist, and he is the son of Poseidon. Oh – and his best friend Grover is a faun.
At Camp Half-Blood in New York, Percy learns that Zeus’s master lightning bolt has been stolen. His father is blamed for the theft and Percy, Grover, and, Annabeth, daughter of Athena, set out on a quest to retrieve it. This quest will take the three of them into a world filled with gods and goddesses, plus monsters, sword fights and many dangers. Will they succeed? Will they find what they were really looking for?
-Story–
With the way the story is told, I felt like I was a part of it and I couldn’t get enough. Each chapter has you on the edge of your seat wanting to know what happens next. The Greek mythology is fascinating and described in a way that’s easy to understand without need for prior knowledge of the Greek gods. Educational without being pushy about it.
–Characters–
The characters are relatable and fun, with a great group dynamic. Each character has their own skills and personality that compliments the others and brings a healthy dose of lightheartedness and comedy to this action-packed world. Also, the betrayal shown throughout the story packs an even harder punch because of the trust that has been built up throughout the story.
–Setting–
The world is brought together in a beautiful way that isn’t over complicated but brings enough detail to visualize it yourself. The transition from normal kid in the modern world to the stunning world of Fauns, Centaurs, and fantasy is done very well.
–Adaptations–
There are two movies and a musical, and both take some liberty with the story. Percy Jackson and the Lightning Thief is also book one of a five book series.
–Percy Jackson and the Lightning Thief Discussion Questions–
- Who was your favorite Greek god to learn about?
- What power would you like to have and why?
- Grover’s disability ended up being a cover for a great talent. Tell of a time you saw someone surprise you with what they were able to do? Why was it surprising?
- What role did friendship play in this quest? What would have happened without it?
- Of all of the traps set for them, which one would you have struggled with the most? Which would have been easy to avoid?
–AWARDS–
-A Best Book of 2005, School Library Journal
-A New York Times Notable Book of 2005
-A Best Book of 2005, Child Magazine
–Bluebonnet Award Nominee, 2006, Texas Library Association
-Askews Torchlight Award (UK) Winner, 2006
-Chicago Public Library Best of the Best Book List, 2005
-ALA Notable Book for 2005
–Final Thoughts–
The Percy Jackson books are a great summer read, especially since outside activities are limited right now. These books will take you on incredible adventures right in your own home.
If you enjoyed our Percy Jackson and the Lightning Thief discussion questions and review, check out the following:
–Percy Jackson Curriculum (From the Rick Riordan website)
-The movies on Disney Plus and our other Disney Plus Streaming Suggestions.
–Dark Crystal: Age of Resistance Review
–5 Best Fantasy Shows on Netflix
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