Book Review: Percy Jackson & The Olympians, The Lightning Thief

I just finished reading "The Lightning Thief" by Rick Riordan. This is the first book in the Percy Jackson series. I always heard of this book, and knew how popular it was. I bought it at my library used bookstore and thought I'd give it a try. Before I read the book, I watched the movie first. I liked the movie, it was entertaining. Let me say, the book is different than the movie and I knew that. I liked the book, but it's not a favorite of mine.

Here's the plot:

Percy Jackson is about to be kicked out of boarding school again. Lately, mythological monsters and the gods of Mount Olympus seem to be walking straight out of the pages of Percy's Greek mythology textbook and into his life. Zeus's master lightning bolt has been stolen, and Percy is the prime suspect. Percy goes on an adventure with his two friends, to find and return the lightning bolt and hoping to save his mother in return.

I did like this book. The beginning was really good and got better halfway. About 70% through the book, I got bored. I don't know why. I think I got sick of reading it and the book was long to me. I understand it is a middle grade book but I still liked it. I thought Percy was a great character, and he is strong for a twelve-year old. I liked his friends Grover and Annabeth. Grover is half goat and his job is to protect Percy. He was a good friend. Annabeth is the daughter of Athena and she doesn't like Percy at first. Percy's dad is Poseidon and him and Athena hated each other. That's why Annabeth didn't get along with Percy. They become friends throughout the journey. The pacing was good, although I got bored at the end. I liked all the characters and hated the mean girl bullies. I also felt bad for Percy because his dad left before he was born and his mom married a bad guy who abuses her.(Smelly Gabe). I like fantasy books and this book was different from other books I read. This book also taught me about Greek Mythology and I haven't learned that since sixth grade.

Overall, I liked this book but it was boring at times. I'm not sure if I will read the rest of the books. I liked the movie too. Do I recommend this book? Yes! I think everyone should read this book, but not if you hate Greek Mythology because this book is all about it. Is it worth a buy? Maybe. I'm glad I got it for a dollar at a used bookstore. I wouldn't pay full price for it. I think it's worth a borrow from the library or a friend, but not a buy unless you want the other books in the series. That's my review and I will be updating soon so keep reading!