Name: Screenwise
Author: Screenwise

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Screenwise Verdict

This is Rick Riordan doing what he does best: making mythology irresistible to middle schoolers. The Trials of Apollo is his most emotionally mature series, with Apollo's journey from narcissistic god to humble hero providing genuine character development alongside the monster-slaying and prophecy-fulfilling.

The series wraps up the entire Percy Jackson chronicle, so longtime fans get closure while new readers get a standalone adventure. The mythology education is real—kids will genuinely learn about Greek and Roman stories, gods, and heroes without realizing they're being taught. Riordan's inclusion of LGBTQ+ characters (Apollo is canonically bisexual) is handled matter-of-factly, which is exactly how it should be.

The later books get heavier with character deaths and sacrifice, so this isn't quite as light as the original Percy Jackson series. But for kids ready for slightly more emotional depth, this hits the sweet spot between entertainment and substance. The 4.8 Amazon rating and passionate fanbase speak for themselves—this is quality middle-grade adventure that adults can enjoy too.

Age Fit

Best for ages 10-15, though the reading level is accessible to younger confident readers. The emotional complexity and some darker themes in later books make this Riordan's most mature middle-grade series. Adults who grew up with Percy Jackson will also enjoy seeing the universe conclusion.

WISE Breakdown

Wholesome

82

Rick Riordan's signature blend of humor, friendship, and character growth continues here. Apollo's journey from arrogant god to humble mortal models humility and personal growth. The series maintains age-appropriate relationships and emotional stakes without being preachy. Some mild language and teen romance, but nothing gratuitous. The tone balances action with genuine emotional moments and strong themes of teamwork and redemption.

Imaginative

88

Riordan takes Greek and Roman mythology and mashes it with modern settings, pop culture references, and fresh twists on ancient stories. The premise of a fallen god experiencing mortality is genuinely creative. The series introduces new demigods, monsters, and locations while connecting to the beloved Percy Jackson universe. Haikus at chapter starts, prophecies, and wordplay keep things playful. It's not groundbreaking literature, but it consistently sparks curiosity about mythology and storytelling.

Safe

85

This is a middle-grade adventure series with typical Rick Riordan content: monster battles, peril, and some character deaths (handled sensitively, not graphic). No sexual content, though there are age-appropriate crushes and LGBTQ+ representation (Apollo is canonically bisexual, handled matter-of-factly). Mild language occasionally. Violence is fantasy-based and not gory. The series deals with heavier themes in later books (sacrifice, mortality) but nothing that would blindside a reader familiar with the Percy Jackson universe.

Enriching

84

Kids absorb mythology almost by osmosis through these books—Greek and Roman gods, heroes, and stories become familiar friends. The series explores themes of humility, redemption, friendship, and what it means to be mortal. Apollo's character arc from narcissistic deity to empathetic hero is genuinely meaningful. Riordan weaves in diverse characters and normalizes LGBTQ+ identities. The books encourage reading for pleasure and have launched countless kids into lifelong reading habits. Not deep literature, but solid emotional and cultural education wrapped in entertainment.

Parent Info

✓

Why It Might Be Great

Rick Riordan's most mature series yet, with real character growth as Apollo learns humility and what it means to be human
Mythology education disguised as page-turning adventure—kids will know their Greek and Roman gods inside out
LGBTQ+ representation handled naturally and matter-of-factly (Apollo is bisexual, multiple queer characters)
Brings closure to the Percy Jackson universe while standing on its own
The humor and pop culture references keep it accessible even for reluctant readers

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What to Watch For

Later books deal with heavier themes including sacrifice and character deaths—emotionally intense for sensitive kids
Best enjoyed after reading Percy Jackson and Heroes of Olympus series (not required, but you'll miss a lot of references)
Reading level is accessible (grades 5-9) but emotional maturity needed for ages 10+
Some mild language and peril throughout

Conversation Starters

"If you suddenly became mortal and lost all your powers, what would be the hardest thing to adjust to?"
"Apollo starts out really full of himself. Have you ever had to learn humility the hard way?"
"The books show Apollo being attracted to people of different genders. What did you think about how that was handled?"
"Which Greek or Roman god would you want to meet in real life, and what would you ask them?"
"Apollo has to rely on his friends instead of his powers. When have you had to depend on others?"

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