Percy Jackson has saved the world. Twice. But now the son of Poseidon faces what might be his greatest challenge ever—graduating high school and getting accepted into New Rome University. With the help of his girlfriend, Annabeth, and best friend, Grover, Percy goes on a quest to get three letters of recommendation, all while keeping up with his homework.
Percy Jackson didn’t think anything would be harder than saving the world, but his return to high school after his last harrowing adventure makes him wonder. If making up his lost junior year and finishing his senior year weren’t enough, Percy is faced with the daunting task of being accepted into New Rome University. His father, Poseidon, explains that to be accepted and attend college with his girlfriend, Annabeth, Percy must get three letters of recommendation from the gods.
And of course, every demigod knows the only way to get much of anything from the gods is by completing a quest.
Ganymede, the cupbearer of the gods, approaches Percy with the first quest: find and return the lost chalice of the gods before Zeus or any of the other Olympians realize it’s missing. This stolen chalice isn’t just the gods’ favorite cups: Anyone who drinks from it becomes immortal. In the wrong hands, it could have devastating consequences.
As the son of Poseidon, Percy is plenty powerful. However, no wise hero undertakes a quest alone. With the help of Annabeth, the daughter of Athena, and his best friend, Grover the satyr, Percy battles killer chickens and aquatic snakes as he tries to find the chalice, return it to Ganymede and not die in the process.
None.
In the world of Percy Jackson, the Greek gods and myths are real. The gods have demigod offspring with mortals, and these powerful children often must fend off monsters and embark on quests. Ghost stories are also mentioned.
Poseidon and the rest of the Greek gods rarely see their mortal children and typically only talk to them if they need something from them, such as completing a quest. Percy’s mom and stepdad are supportive parents.
Multiple times characters say “oh my gods.” Hens try to kill the three friends, and a chick bites Annabeth. One character almost exclusively photographs dead and dying nature. Snakes try to kill Percy, Annabeth and Grover. Elisson, a river god, knocks Percy around. Geras, the god of old age, beats Percy up during their wrestling match. Mimosas and wine are mentioned.
Zeus made Ganymede immortal because he’s attracted to him. Percy and Annabeth kiss multiple times. Himbos is a smoothie shop staffed by fit men (a bit like Hooters is notoriously staffed by attractive women).
What is one thing you like about your parents? Why is that something you’re grateful for?
Do your friends help you when you’re in a tough spot? Do you help your friends when they need help?
Percy defeated Geras by embracing the idea of growing older. Does growing up scare you? Why or why not?
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Families should understand this is a book based on pagan mythology. However, Percy and his friends exhibit admirable character qualities such as bravery and loyalty.
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Review by Rachel Pfeiffer
