Percy Jackson (Graphic Novels) – WISE Score & Parent Review | Screenwise

Percy Jackson (Graphic Novels)

Name: Screenwise
Author: Screenwise

book2023

86%

WISE Score

4.4

Amazon

Greek gods meet middle school in this vibrant graphic novel that makes mythology cool and reading accessible.

Percy Jackson (Graphic Novels)

book

2023

86%

WISE Score

4.4

Amazon

Greek gods meet middle school in this vibrant graphic novel that makes mythology cool and reading accessible.

4.4

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Screenwise Verdict

This is exactly what a graphic novel adaptation should be—it takes an already-beloved story and makes it more accessible without dumbing it down. The visual format is perfect for kids who find 300-page novels daunting but still want rich storytelling and character development.

The Percy Jackson series has always been smart about representation (neurodivergent hero, diverse cast, complex family dynamics), and the graphic novel maintains that while adding visual creativity. The mythology education is real—kids will actually learn about Greek gods and monsters—but it never feels like homework because the adventure is genuinely engaging.

The 2023 refresh is well-timed with the Disney+ series, making this relevant for a new generation. If your kid loved the show, this is the perfect next step. If they're reluctant readers, this might be the book that changes their relationship with reading. Solid choice for ages 8-14.

Age Fit

Best for ages 8-14, though the graphic novel format makes it accessible to younger readers (even 7-8) who might struggle with the full novels. Upper middle schoolers will still enjoy it, especially if they're already Percy Jackson fans or new to the series via the Disney+ show.

WISE Breakdown

Wholesome

The Percy Jackson graphic novel adaptation maintains the emotionally healthy core of the original series—friendship, loyalty, and found family are central themes. Percy's relationships with Annabeth and Grover model genuine cooperation and support. The pacing is balanced, with action sequences broken up by character moments. While there's monster violence (Medusa, the Minotaur, etc.), it's presented in a fantasy context appropriate for middle-grade readers. The tone is consistently hopeful despite challenges, and Percy's struggles with ADHD and dyslexia are portrayed positively as demigod traits rather than deficits.

Imaginative

The graphic novel format brings fresh visual life to Riordan's already-imaginative world where Greek mythology collides with modern America. Seeing Camp Half-Blood illustrated, watching gods in contemporary clothing, and visualizing mythological monsters in comic-book style adds a new creative dimension. The visual storytelling invites readers to engage with the world differently than prose alone. The premise itself—that ancient myths are real and happening now—sparks curiosity about mythology and encourages kids to imagine themselves as heroes. The artwork from four major comic talents adds layers of visual creativity to an already inventive story.

Safe

This is fantasy adventure violence—monsters turn to dust, there's no gore or graphic injury. The scariest moments (Medusa's lair, the Underworld) are age-appropriate for the middle-grade audience and handled with the right balance of tension and humor. No sexual content, minimal language concerns. The graphic novel format does make some action sequences more visually intense than prose, but nothing approaching genuinely frightening or traumatic. The monsters are clearly fantastical rather than realistic threats. Overall, this is firmly in the 'safe adventure' category that parents can hand to kids without worry about surprise content.

Enriching

Beyond entertainment, this introduces Greek mythology in an engaging, memorable way—kids actually retain the stories of Zeus, Poseidon, Hades, and various monsters because they're woven into adventure. Percy's neurodivergence (ADHD, dyslexia) being reframed as demigod strengths is genuinely empowering for kids who struggle in traditional school settings. Themes of loyalty, sacrifice, and questioning authority (the gods aren't always right) offer ethical complexity. The quest structure teaches perseverance and problem-solving. The graphic novel format also serves as a bridge for reluctant readers or visual learners, making literature more accessible. It's both fun and genuinely educational about mythology and classical culture.

Parent Info

✓

Why It Might Be Great

Perfect gateway for reluctant readers—all the adventure of the original novel with visual storytelling that keeps pages turning
Makes Greek mythology genuinely interesting and memorable by embedding it in a modern quest narrative
Percy's ADHD and dyslexia are reframed as demigod superpowers, offering empowering representation for neurodivergent kids
Strong friendship dynamics between Percy, Annabeth, and Grover model loyalty, teamwork, and accepting differences
The 2023 refreshed edition ties into the Disney+ series, making it timely and relevant for current fans

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What to Watch For

Fantasy violence including monster battles (Minotaur, Medusa, hellhounds)—more visually intense in graphic format than prose but still age-appropriate
Some tense moments in the Underworld and during confrontations with gods, though balanced with humor
Kids may want to binge the entire series once they start—this is book one of a longer journey

Conversation Starters

"If you were a demigod, which Greek god would you want as your parent and why?"
"Percy discovers his ADHD and dyslexia are actually strengths—what are some things about yourself that others might see as challenges but could be superpowers?"
"The gods in this story aren't always fair or right—when is it okay to question authority, even if they're powerful?"
"If Camp Half-Blood were real, what cabin do you think you'd be in based on your personality and skills?"

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