Percy Jackson

Unless you had bad taste in books as a child, I’m assuming you’ve read one of the Percy Jackson books before, and even if you haven’t read them, you’ve probably heard of them. First published in 2005, the series has managed to retain the majority of its fan-base to this day — and for good reason. The series subtly touches upon vulnerable topics, features likable and fantastically written characters, and is 100% re-readable (which, to me, is what makes a fantastic story).

But for most of its old readers, it’s not the literary prowess of it that makes it so enchanting, it’s the memories surrounding their experience of first reading it: memories of simpler and happier times. I think it’s also safe to say that those books shaped aspects of the personalities and values of many a twelve-year-old for the better, aspects that they have (including me) held on to through the passage of time. And for many people, those books were the first time they felt seen in the literature they consumed.

So, if by some misfortune you haven’t already read these books, here’s why you should.

Have I mentioned the awesome characters?

They’re relatable, well-written, and incredibly memorable. You could have read more complex and well-written books or better stories, but no other characters stick to you like the characters featured in the Percy Jackson books. Percy is a great main character, and his narration is endlessly entertaining. More importantly, the story would go nowhere without the incredible female characters — something that didn’t appear much in early middle-grade books. You may even emerge with your new favourite character of all time (*cough* Nico D’Angelo *cough*).

Camp Halfblood

For context, Camp Halfblood is the summer camp where most of the book takes place. It is to the Percy Jackson books what Hogwarts is to the Harry Potter books. Whereas the teachers at Hogwarts sought safety for its students, the adults at Camp Halfblood fully encourage fights to the death, and that’s what makes Camp Halfblood such an enviable setting. No rules, autonomy, and deathly capture-the-flag. It also smells like strawberries.

They’re very quick reads

Though the books progressively get longer, most of them aren’t much more than 400 pages. That, combined with entertaining and fast-paced scenes, allow for the book to be finished in a day or less. With a plethora of exams and academic responsibilities, the Percy Jackson books are perfect to read when you need escapism but can’t afford the time. Which brings me to my next point.

Escapism — that’s it.

With all that, I hope you’re convinced to read these books if you haven’t, and if you have, I hope you are reminded of how nice they were. And if nothing else, read it for the jokes and pop-culture references. You might even become an expert at Greek mythology, which serves no real purpose, but has the potential to be a great conversation-starter. I’ll even provide you with an incredible joke that you’ll get if you listen to me and read the books

How did the Ancient Greeks measure their football fields? By Demeter.

Goodbye.