Day Two - Percy Jackson And The Lightning Thief by Rick Riordan

Hey everyone! Another day, another novel, but again I couldn't help myself. These cold winter days are absolutely perfect for snuggling up in front of the fire and ploughing through yet another thrilling read.

The novel I read today was Percy Jackson and the Lightning Thief by Rick Riordan; I was nervous about reading this book but I'm certainly glad that I did. Here's the blurb:

Look, I didn't want to be a half-blood. I never asked to be the son of a Greek God.

I was just a normal kid, going to school, playing basketball, skateboarding. The usual. Until I accidentally vaporized my maths teacher. Now I spend my time battling monsters and generally trying to stay alive.

This is the one where Zeus, God of the Sky, thinks I've stolen his lightning bolt - and making Zeus angry is a very bad idea.

My Review:

I originally read this book probably a good seven years ago but since it had faded into patchy memories. In fact, I quickly realised that I had mainly remembered the movie and not the actual story plot. I wasn't all that convinced about re-reading it either but a friend who had been obsessed with the series for years finally got me to give it a try. 

I can easily say that I was most pleasantly surprised even to the point where I think I enjoyed the book more the second time around. The story was even more thrilling than I remembered, proving time and time again that the book always far surpasses the movie. 

The narration was perfect and I could easily believe that I was being spoken to by a twelve year old boy, something that is often so difficult to find in first person novels and the reason I usually choose not to read them. I loved the small witty remarks made throughout which really brought the book to life without trying to turn it into a comic fest. 

The plot itself was engaging and moved forward at a good pace for an adventure-style novel. There was never a dull moment in this novel and I found myself, at times, almost unable to turn the page for all of the excitement. 

The characters were also well-placed, although perhaps a tad mature or wise for their ages at times. They were easily likeable and the relationships between each character were well-formed. I especially liked the lack of romance in the story as I feel that far too many fantasy novels focus on the romance side as opposed to the real drive behind the plot. 

Overall, it was a really well rounded book that I don't believe should be branded as only for children.

Finally, I'd love to hear all your opinions. Have you read this book? If so, what do you think? Do you have any suggestions for other good books? Don't be a stranger!