Percy Jackson and the Olympians: The Lightning Thief | Rick Riordan | Puffin Books

"Mythologically epic, hilariously funny, and utterly unputdownable."

The Lightning Thief is the explosive first book in Rick Riordan's globally beloved Percy Jackson and the Olympians series — a modern classic that has introduced millions of young readers to the thrilling world of Greek mythology.

Twelve-year-old Percy Jackson has always known he was different. Diagnosed with ADHD and dyslexia, he's been expelled from every school he's ever attended. But when a maths teacher turns into a monster and attacks him, Percy discovers the truth: he is the son of a Greek god, and the ancient world of Olympus is very much alive.

Whisked away to Camp Half-Blood, a training ground for demigods, Percy learns that Zeus's master lightning bolt has been stolen — and he is the prime suspect. With his friends Annabeth and Grover by his side, Percy must embark on a cross-country quest to find the bolt, prevent a war among the gods, and uncover a betrayal that will shake Olympus to its core.

Why Readers Can't Put It Down

• A fast-paced, action-packed adventure rooted in Greek mythology
• A relatable hero who turns his "differences" into superpowers
• Witty, laugh-out-loud humour balanced with genuine heart and emotion
• Introduces iconic characters: Percy, Annabeth, Grover, Chiron, and the Olympian gods
• The start of a 5-book series that has sold over 180 million copies worldwide
• Now a major Disney+ television series

About the Author

Rick Riordan is the #1 New York Times bestselling author of the Percy Jackson and the Olympians series, The Kane Chronicles, Magnus Chase and the Gods of Asgard, and The Trials of Apollo. His books have been translated into 42 languages and sold over 180 million copies worldwide. He is widely credited with inspiring a generation of reluctant readers.

Book Details

• Author: Rick Riordan
• Publisher: Puffin Books (Penguin Random House)
• Series: Percy Jackson and the Olympians, Book 1
• Category: Fantasy / Children's Fiction / Young Adult
• ISBN: 978-0-24-177748-0