Name: Screenwise
Author: Screenwise

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Screenwise Verdict

This is what representation looks like when it's done right—not a 'special episode,' just two demigods who happen to be in love trying to save their friend from hell. Literally.

Riordan and Oshiro deliver a quest that's classic Percy Jackson (prophecies, monsters, mythology) but with real emotional weight. Nico's been through the wringer—dead mom, dead sister, forced outing, losing Jason—and this book doesn't shy away from that trauma. It also doesn't wallow in it. Instead, it shows what healing can look like when you have someone who loves you, and when you're brave enough to face your demons (both kinds).

The Tartarus setting is genuinely dark and intense, which is the point—but it means this isn't breezy poolside reading. Kids who loved the original series will be older now anyway, and they're ready for this emotional depth. The web reviews from actual young readers are glowing, with kids saying they felt seen and moved.

Is it as groundbreaking as the first Percy Jackson? No. But it's a worthy, heartfelt adventure that gives two beloved characters the spotlight they deserve, and shows a generation of readers that queer kids get to be heroes too.

Age Fit

Best for ages 10-14, especially kids already invested in the Percy Jackson universe. The LGBTQ+ representation is normalized and beautiful, but the emotional intensity (trauma, grief, literal descent into hell) makes this better for upper middle-grade readers than younger kids.

WISE Breakdown

Wholesome

88

A deeply emotional story that models healthy relationships, vulnerability, and mutual support between two teen demigods. Nico's journey through trauma (loss of family, being outed, grief) is handled with care and shows genuine emotional growth. The relationship between Nico and Will demonstrates kindness, communication, and working through challenges together. Some intense emotional content around death, loss, and internal demons, but processed in age-appropriate ways.

Imaginative

82

Classic Riordan mythology-meets-modern-world creativity, but this time descending into Tartarus—the darkest part of the Underworld. The premise of a son of light (Apollo) venturing into ultimate darkness is conceptually rich. Builds on established Percy Jackson universe lore while exploring new emotional and physical territory. However, as a spinoff adventure rather than groundbreaking new mythology, it's more 'very good' than revolutionary.

Safe

75

Books are generally safe, but this one ventures into genuinely dark territory—Tartarus is described as terrifying, with demons both literal and psychological. Themes include death, loss of family members, trauma, being forcibly outed, and the prophecy warns of leaving 'something of equal value behind' which creates emotional stakes. No graphic violence or inappropriate content, but the emotional intensity and darkness of setting may be challenging for sensitive readers. Web reviews confirm kids handle it well but it's heavier than typical middle-grade fare.

Enriching

90

Exceptional representation of LGBTQ+ teen relationship handled naturally and authentically (co-author Mark Oshiro brings lived experience). Explores complex themes: processing trauma, supporting a partner through mental health struggles, choosing to face your fears, and the cost of heroism. Web reviews consistently praise the emotional depth and character development. Kids report feeling seen and learning about empathy, resilience, and healthy relationships. The mythology framework makes heavy themes accessible.

Parent Info

✓

Why It Might Be Great

Finally—a full-length adventure starring two of the most beloved Percy Jackson characters, with their gay relationship front and center (not subtext, not sideline)
Co-author Mark Oshiro (himself queer) brings authentic emotional depth to Nico's trauma processing and the relationship dynamics
Kids overwhelmingly praise it—web reviews show young readers feel seen, moved, and engaged by the representation and character growth
Classic Riordan mythology fun (quests, prophecies, monsters) but with real emotional stakes and a relationship that matters
Tackles heavy stuff—grief, trauma, mental health, being outed—in ways that feel honest without being preachy

⚠

What to Watch For

This is emotionally HEAVY—Tartarus is genuinely dark and scary, Nico processes serious trauma, and the prophecy's cost is real
Works best if your kid already knows and loves these characters from previous Percy Jackson books; jumping in cold means missing context
Some homophobic adult reviewers complained (shocker), but kid reviews are overwhelmingly positive—know your kid's readiness for LGBTQ+ main characters
The 'darkness vs. light' metaphor gets pretty intense—not nightmare fuel, but definitely more serious than early Percy Jackson books

Conversation Starters

"Nico's had to deal with so much loss and trauma. How do you think Will helps him, and when is it hard for Will to be the 'sunshine' person?"
"The prophecy says Nico has to 'leave something of equal value behind.' What would be hardest for you to leave behind to save a friend?"
"How do you think it felt for Nico to be outed before he was ready? Why does it matter that he gets to control his own story now?"
"Will is literally made of light going into the darkest place in existence. What do you think that says about love or supporting someone through hard times?"

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