Book Review: The Lost Hero

The Lost Hero, by Rick Riordan. 2010. New York, Disney - Hyperion Books, Hardcover, 557 pages.

Our family really enjoyed the Percy Jackson series, so we thought we'd dive into the next series featuring the demi-gods of Camp Halfblood. We read them aloud so everyone can enjoy them, one chapter at a time.

At first, the three different points of view threw me a little. Throughout the book, we get two chapters from Jason, two from Piper and two from Leo, pretty much in that order. I got used to it; in the end, I can see why the author wanted the story presented from all three viewpoints. It was effective, even though it took awhile to get used to.

Jason, Piper and Leo are the new kids on the block at Camp Halfblood, so of course they immediately are chosen to go on a quest. Jason's storyline is leading to more in the next few books... he grew up with the Roman deities, which, while they are based on the Greek, they have slightly different aspects. This doesn't become clear until you get well into the book. As a son of Jupiter (otherwise known as Zeus), he has a lot on his shoulders. Yes, that's right. Poseidon and Hades weren't the only ones to break that pact back in the Percy Jackson books. Admit it, are you really that surprised?

What makes this interesting is that Hera (or Juno, in the Roman), must work with Jason in this book, and we all know how she feels about Zeus' shenanigans.

Piper is the troubled daughter of a movie star. This leads to some interesting situations. I thought it was great to have a daughter of Aphrodite finally be more than a primping beauty queen. There is nothing giggly about Piper.

Leo had a hard life from the start. Luckily, as a son of Hephaestus, he knows how to get the job done. He really grows a lot in this book; I look forward to seeing how he turns out.

The book takes you on an interesting journey as you meet many of Greek mythology's most famous characters, like King Midas and Medea. I won't spoil the story by elaborating on all the amazing updates these and other characters have made through Riordan's pen. Suffice it to say that this book is full of adventure, lots of laughs, and some surprises.

If your kids like adventure, they'll love this book. If you like the fun adventures that are only available in Young Adult literature, you'll enjoy it, too. I give it a full five stars from our house.

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Disclosure Statement: I did not get anything for reviewing this book. My daughter bought it so we could all enjoy it.

Toni Rakestraw has been writing and editing for over 15 years. Learn more about what editing can do for you at Unbridled Editor.