If the last decade of reading Rick Riordan books has taught me anything, it’s that Percy Jackson never fails to get into trouble — and I never fail to read about it.
Riordan’s latest book, “Percy Jackson and the Wrath of the Triple Goddess,” was no exception. Released on Sept. 24, the book is the seventh installment in the “Percy Jackson and the Olympians” series and the second installment of the newly dubbed “Senior Year Adventures.”
This time, Percy’s task is to earn a college recommendation letter by pet-sitting for the frightening and powerful goddess Hecate.
Hijinks ensue and soon, Percy and the gang are stuck chasing a runaway hellhound and polecat across the chaotic streets of New York City.
Riordan’s writing remains as gripping and engaging as ever, drawing in readers and keeping their attention. Even after over 15 different novels and adventures, he still manages to come up with unique, engaging plot points, and character developments.
One thing I liked about this book was its emphasis on moving on from past regrets and attempting to make up for prior mistakes. Everyone is flawed. Life isn’t perfect. Sometimes you’ve just got to take a deep breath, look at the bigger picture, and try to let go.
Throughout the book, Percy does his best to connect with the other characters and lead them on a new — and less self-destructive — path forward. He also does his best to try and help those who have found themselves in less-than-ideal situations.
For Percy, these small moments of empathy come while battling perfume-obsessed naiads or chasing hellhounds through shadows. But the messages gleaned from his conversations can be applied to not-so-dangerous lifestyles as well.
Percy’s emotional intelligence and strong moral compass are some of my favorite aspects of his character and are a few of the reasons why I believe that he has kept his popularity in the young adult literary sphere for so many years.
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His friends and fellow members of the series’ core trio, Annabeth and Grover, have their time to shine in this book as well.
All through the story, Annabeth and Percy continue to show why they are the epitome of a healthy and supportive couple.
Annabeth’s careful strategizing and book smarts balance perfectly with Percy’s more carefree attitude and street smarts. At times, it truly feels as though the two are telepathically sharing their thoughts with one another, showing just how deep their love runs. They also — literally and metaphorically — help to take on one another’s burdens.
Grover, as well, is a valuable member of the team and you can’t help but root for him and his commitment to helping the group — even after he nearly destroys an entire haunted mansion.
This entire book feels like it is an homage to October and the Halloween season. Starting from the very first line, in which Percy heralds October as the “best month ever,” the book grabs onto this concept and never wanes.
Hecate plays the part of the terrifying old witch, lording over her creepy, spell-invested house and willing to turn people into animals. Ghosts also turn up at various points throughout the book, and there are plenty of magical mishaps to go around.
“Percy Jackson and the Wrath of the Triple Goddess” was yet another fun ride with an entertaining cast of characters. The book is perfect for people of all ages — anyone who is willing to sit back, laugh, open their minds, and enjoy the ride.