Percy Jackson and the Lightning Thief: Deluxe Collector's Edition
Percy Jackson & The Olympians Series
on Goodreads (3,235)
What’s inside...
Percy Jackson discovers he is the son of Poseidon and is accused of stealing Zeus's lightning bolt. He must navigate the dangerous world of the gods, monsters, and demigods to prove his innocence and prevent a war among the Olympian gods. Percy is facing expulsion from boarding school again, and mythological monsters and gods are appearing in his life. With only ten days to find and return the stolen lightning bolt, Percy must confront his estranged father, solve the Oracle's riddle, and uncover a betrayal more powerful than the gods themselves to bring peace to Mount Olympus.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
10-14
Length
416 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Percy Jackson
Annabeth Chase
Grover Underwood
Sally Jackson
Chiron
Clarisse La Rue
Ares
Gabe Ugliano
Luke Castellan
Discussion points
How do you think Percy felt when he discovered he was a demigod? How would you feel if you were in his shoes?
What do you think is the importance of friendship in Percy's adventures? Can you share a personal experience where friends helped you in a difficult situation?
What qualities do you admire in Percy and his friends? Are there any you would like to develop in yourself?
How does the mythological world in the book compare to the real world? What can we learn from the myths that are woven into the story?
If you had a power like one of the demigods, what would it be and why?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their opinions and feelings about the characters and events in the book, validating their thoughts and relating them to real-life scenarios.
Use Percy's journey as a starting point to discuss overcoming personal challenges and the importance of self-discovery.
Highlight the teamwork among Percy and his friends to emphasize the value of cooperation and loyalty in friendships.
Discuss the moral decisions Percy makes and ask your child what they would do in similar situations, promoting ethical thinking.
Incorporate fun activities like drawing their favorite scene or writing an alternative ending to deepen their connection with the story.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Courage and bravery
Explanation: Percy Jackson faces numerous challenges and mythical creatures, demonstrating courage despite his fears.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to face their own fears and challenges with bravery, whether it's trying new activities or standing up for themselves and others.
Example Lesson: The importance of friendship and teamwork
Explanation: Throughout his journey, Percy relies on his friends, Annabeth and Grover, illustrating how teamwork and trusting others are crucial in overcoming obstacles.
Real-World Application: This highlights the importance of cooperation and building strong friendships to navigate through difficult situations in school or in play.
Example Lesson: Identity and self-discovery
Explanation: Percy's adventure leads him on a path of self-discovery, learning more about his divine heritage and capabilities.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to explore their own talents and interests, helping them build self-esteem and a sense of individual identity.
Example Lesson: Responsibility and the consequences of choices
Explanation: Percy’s decisions throughout the book affect not only himself but also the world around him, teaching him about responsibility.
Real-World Application: Children can learn that their choices have impacts, encouraging them to think about their actions and the effects they have on others.
Example Lesson: Resilience in the face of adversity
Explanation: As Percy encounters setbacks, he remains determined and resilient, never giving up despite the odds.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the value of perseverance and resilience in overcoming personal challenges and setbacks, whether it’s in academics, sports, or personal relationships.