Book Review: Percy Jackson and the Lightning Thief by Rick Riordan (Why KS3 Students Will Love This Epic Adventure)
If you’re looking for a book that’s packed with monsters, myths, and laugh-out-loud moments, Percy Jackson and the Lightning Thief should be next on your reading list. It’s one of those books that pulls you in from page one and doesn’t let go.
Whether you’re in Year 7, 8 or 9, this one’s perfect for readers who love clever heroes, fast-paced action and stories about ancient gods causing trouble in the modern world.
Illustration of Percy Jackson and the Lightning Thief, a high-energy, myth-packed adventure ideal for KS3 readers
✅ What’s It About?
Percy Jackson is a 12-year-old boy who’s always getting into trouble — until he discovers there’s a reason for it. He’s actually a demigod, the son of Poseidon, the Greek god of the sea.
When someone steals Zeus’s lightning bolt, Percy is blamed, and suddenly the fate of the world rests on his shoulders. With the help of his friends Annabeth and Grover, Percy sets off on an epic quest across America, battling monsters and dodging gods to clear his name.
✅ Why KS3 Students Will Love It
It’s seriously funny: Rick Riordan’s writing is packed with humour, sarcasm and brilliant one-liners.
It’s full of action: Monsters, gods, magical weapons and daring quests — there’s barely time to breathe.
It makes mythology fun: You’ll learn about Greek gods, heroes and legends without it ever feeling like a history lesson.
The characters are brilliant: Percy is brave, flawed and funny, and his friends Annabeth and Grover are great too.
✅ Favourite Quote
“With great power… comes great need to take a nap. Wake me up later.”
Classic Percy — funny, relatable and full of attitude.
✅ Would I Recommend It?
Absolutely! It’s one of the most entertaining and exciting books you’ll find on a KS3 bookshelf. And the best part? It’s the first book in a series, so if you love it (which you will), there’s loads more waiting for you.
Final Thoughts
If you’re in Years 7, 8 or 9 and love stories about quests, monsters and clever heroes, Percy Jackson and the Lightning Thief is a brilliant summer read. And if you’d like help boosting your reading skills, writing adventure stories or getting better at reviewing books like this one, I’d be happy to help.
I have a limited number of tutoring slots available both online and in-person across Stockport, Trafford, South Manchester and surrounding areas. Contact me today for a private tutoring quote, whether it’s for reading confidence, creative writing or vocabulary-building.
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