The Lightning Thief, by Rick Riordan

The Lightning Thief and other books from the "Percy Jackson and the Olympians" series, brings Greek mythology into the modern world.

Young Percy Jackson has always led a troubled life. With his dyslexia and ADHD he has always managed to get himself into trouble. Finally one day a Fury attempts to assassinate him, and that is when he learns he is a demi god, the son of the Greek god Poseidon. His life from this point forward will never be the same. He goes to a special summer camp run by Dionysus for demi gods where he learns to fight with swords, battle monsters, and read Greek. His adventures then really begin. He fights monsters, travels to Hades, earns favor with some gods, and the anger of others.

I found this book surprisingly thought provoking at times. When Percy and his friend Annabeth (daughter of Athena) were in Hades, they noticed how few people had made it into the "Heaven" portion of Hades and commented on how few people really did good things in their lives. I enjoyed these moments in the book.

As for the story, a lot of it was just rewrites of mythology into modern times. It was actually a fun way to review mythology. I did find the explanation of how mortals have missed the existence of mount Olympus hovering over the empire state building a little weak, but despite that I enjoyed the book.

I think more important then me enjoying the book was the fact that my 9 year old loved it and quickly ready the 3 books that are out in print. She can't wait for the next one to come out.