The Olympians and Rick Riordan’s Percy Jackson are two iconic book series that many of us associate with our childhood. With the new Disney+ show based on these beloved stories, it’s a great time to revisit what makes the Percy Jackson books so special. Dive into the books to enhance your viewing experience of the show.
About the Percy Jackson Books
Imagine a world where modern-day Greek gods have children with the powers of demigods. This captivating premise is at the heart of Rick Riordan’s Percy Jackson and the Olympians series. The story follows Percy Jackson, the son of Poseidon, as he embarks on an adventure through a hidden world full of gods, goddesses, and their extraordinary offspring. Since 2005, the series has expanded with two additional books, The Trials of Apollo and The Heroes of Olympus, introducing new characters and keeping readers hooked.
How Many Books Are There?
The Percy Jackson universe consists of 17 books across three series. As of 2023, the original Percy Jackson and the Olympians series includes six books, with The Chalice of the Gods being the latest addition.
Individual Books in the Series
1. The Lightning Thief
At the start of his journey, Percy Jackson discovers he’s not just a normal 12-year-old with ADHD and dyslexia but also the son of Poseidon. He is sent to Camp Half-Blood, a camp for demigods after being accused of stealing Zeus’ lightning bolt. There, Percy must figure out his identity and solve the mystery of the theft.
2. The Sea of Monsters
In this second book, Percy and his friends must save Camp Half Blood when its magical defenses begin to fail. Their dangerous journey leads them to the Sea of Monsters, where they must recover a powerful artefact while facing numerous challenges and uncovering family secrets.
3. The Titan’s Curse
Kronos, the ancient Titan, and new gods present a grave threat in this book. Percy helps his friend Grover and faces a formidable monster while dealing with the curse hinted at in the title.
4. The Battle of the Labyrinth
The war between the gods and Titans escalates as Percy begins high school. He and his friends must navigate the intricate labyrinth, inspired by the Greek myth of Daedalus and the Minotaur, to prevent the world from unravelling.
5. The Last Olympian
In the final book of the series, Percy and his friends defend Mount Olympus from the Titans. The battle intensifies in Manhattan, leading to a world-changing showdown.
6. The Chalice of the Gods
In this 2023 release, Percy is about to start college and faces three trials in order to obtain a letter of recommendation. He teams up with his friends for yet another adventure, filled with ancient myths, gods, and the power of friendship.
The Trials of Apollo Series
1. The Hidden Oracle
As punishment, Zeus turns Apollo into a teenager and sends him to New York City. To regain his divine status, Apollo enlists the help of Meg and Percy Jackson.
2. The Dark Prophecy
Apollo continues his quest to reclaim the Oracles, facing mythical creatures and the powerful Triumvirate Holdings.
3. The Burning Maze
Apollo battles the Triumvirate Holdings’ kings while striving to regain immortality, but he suffers personal losses along the way.
4. The Tyrant’s Tomb
To protect Camp Jupiter from Triumvirate Holdings, Apollo and his friends venture into an ancient tomb. This serves as Apollo’s final test.
5. The Tower of Nero
In the series’ conclusion, Apollo and his allies face their greatest challenge yet in New York City. Apollo’s attempt to return to Mount Olympus tests his relationships and loyalties.
New Developments in the Percy Jackson Universe
Rick Riordan recently announced Wrath of the Triple Goddess, the seventh book in the Percy Jackson series, set to release on September 23, 2024. The story will continue the adventures of Percy and his friends.
