The Blood of Olympus

The Blood of Olympus

book

2014

WISE
89%

WISE Score

4.8

Amazon

The demigods take a final stand against Mother Earth in a finale that’s heavy on the heart and the monster-slaying.

Amazon4.8
Common Sense Media

Where to Read

Amazon
Amazon
Barnes & Noble
Barnes & Noble
Libby
Libby

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Screenwise Verdict

This is the gold standard for middle-grade adventure. Even though it's over a decade old, it doesn't feel 'dated' because the humor and the themes of identity are still exactly what kids are dealing with today.

It’s the kind of book that turns 'non-readers' into kids who stay up late with a flashlight. If your kid has finished Percy Jackson and wants more, this is the logical (and very safe) next step.

Just be prepared for them to start asking for a trip to Greece or Italy once they finish the last page.

Age Fit

Perfect for the 10-14 crowd. It’s sophisticated enough for middle schoolers but avoids the 'edginess' that usually creeps into YA books for older teens.

WISE Breakdown
Wholesome
85

The book centers on a group of seven kids who actually like and support each other. It handles heavy themes like trauma and feeling like an outsider with a lot of heart, especially through Nico and Reyna's perspectives.

Imaginative
92

Riordan is the king of 'what if gods lived in Manhattan?' The way he mashes Roman and Greek myths into a modern globetrotting adventure is consistently clever and keeps kids interested in history.

Safe
88

It's a middle-grade fantasy novel. There is plenty of 'sword and sandal' violence against monsters and some peril, but it's never gratuitous or gory. No explicit content or language issues to worry about.

Enriching
90

Beyond the mythology lessons, it’s a masterclass in diverse storytelling. It features characters from various ethnic backgrounds and addresses LGBTQ+ identity in a way that feels natural and supportive for the age group.

Parent Info
✓

Why It Might Be Great

  • Nico di Angelo finally gets the spotlight and a beautiful character arc about self-acceptance.
  • It’s an effortless way to get your kid to actually learn about the difference between Greek and Roman culture.
  • The teamwork between the seven main characters models how to handle group dynamics without everyone being a jerk.
  • Riordan’s humor keeps the high-stakes 'end of the world' vibe from becoming too depressing.
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What to Watch For

  • The scale of the war means some secondary characters don't make it, which might be tough for sensitive readers.
  • It is the fifth book in this series (and the tenth in the overall world), so don't expect it to make sense if they haven't read the others.
  • Some fans find the final battle a bit rushed compared to the 500 pages of buildup.

Conversation Starters

  • "Nico spends a lot of time feeling like he doesn't belong. Have you ever felt like you had to hide a part of yourself to fit in?"
  • "If you had to pick a Roman form or a Greek form for a god, which one sounds more reliable?"
  • "Which of the seven demigods would you actually want to be stuck on a flying ship with for months?"
  • "Leo makes some pretty huge sacrifices for his friends. Do you think he made the right call?"

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