Monday, October 13, 2014

Review: Percy Jackson's Greek Gods

Title:  Percy Jackson's Greek Gods
Series:  None
Author:  Rick Riordan (Website | Twitter)
Illustrator:  John Rocco (Website) 
Age Group:  Young Adult
Publisher:  Disney Hyperion
Publication Date:  August 19, 2014
Source:  Bought
A publisher in New York asked me to write down what I know about the Greek gods, and I was like, Can we do this anonymously? Because I don't need the Olympians mad at me again. But if it helps you to know your Greek gods, and survive an encounter with them if they ever show up in your face, then I guess writing all this down will be my good deed for the week.' So begins Percy Jackson's Greek Gods, in which the son of Poseidon adds his own magic--and sarcastic asides--to the classics. He explains how the world was created, then gives readers his personal take on a who's who of ancients, from Apollo to Zeus. Percy does not hold back. 'If you like horror shows, blood baths, lying, stealing, backstabbing, and cannibalism, then read on, because it definitely was a Golden Age for all that.' Dramatic full-color illustrations throughout by Caldecott Honoree John Rocco make this volume--a must for home, library, and classroom shelves--as stunning as it is entertaining.
Find Percy Jackson's Greet Gods online

My Review:  I adore Percy Jackson.  He is one of my all time favorite characters so whenever I am given the chance to jump back into his world, I take it.  While this book wasn't exactly a new story about Percy, it was through his eyes which was enough for me.  I loved getting more time with him!

Rick Riordan has never disappointed me when it comes to his writing style.  Every time I read something he's written, I'm 100% hooked.  He has such a light and refreshing way of story telling that really gives you the opportunity to become more in tune with the characters.  I feel like I know Percy and all of the Greek gods he told us about.  His diction might not always be the most beautiful and lofty but its beauty lies in the simplicity of it.  It's an extremely accessible style and makes it easy to feel engaged and at attention when reading.  

I so enjoyed the illustrations in this novel as well.  Oh my goodness, they were gorgeous.  I have so many favorites.  I spent a good five to ten minutes just studying the artwork before moving onto the next page.  It was amazing to see pieces of the stories brought to life by John Rocco.  He is very talented.  

While the basic story line of this novel was not original (having been about ancient myths), fresh air was breathed into it by Rick Riordan.  I tore through this book in a matter of days (hey, it was a big book) and can't wait to revisit it.  For anyone who is interested in Greek mythology or has previously read the Percy Jackson series, this one is a must.    

“Hermes played a little Mozart and some One Direction, and Apollo cried, ‘I must have it! The girls will go wild for that!” 

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2 comments:

  1. I was introduced to Percy Jackson late so I always feel like I missed the boat on this one but I'm glad you enjoyed it!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. You should so read it! It's never too late to hop on a boat this awesome :)

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