Wednesday, December 18, 2019

The Hidden Oracle by Rick Riordan


The God Apollo is now a mortal on Earth. He is blamed for the war between the Romans and Greeks by the other Gods, as his son was tricked into starting it. He must find his way among the mortals, and learn humility, as well as persistence in order to survive among men. He is discovered by a demi-god named Meg, who lives on the streets of New York, where she scrounges and trains to fight. Percy Jackson brings them to Camp Half-Blood, where they learn that campers have disappeared, and the oracle tampered with. Will Apollo be able to be a hero and save the oracle and the campers? Or will his world burn down in flames?

I really enjoyed this book, as I do with most of Rick Riordan's books. I liked the way the author showed the disparity between the powers of Gods in their true form, and mortals (even those who were previously Gods). I like the knowledge of what goes on inside the head of a God in the Percy Jackson universe, and I think that this book shows the thought process of Apollo very well. From when he starts out acting like his near- omnipotent self, to later in the book, where he realizes that he needs humility, and understanding of others, and that he is not the only one with an opinion.


Reviewed by Julio B.
Central Library

1 comment:

Renia said...

This is is the first book in the "Trials of Apollo" series. It stars off when Zeus gets mad at his son, Apollo. Apollo is sent to the mortal world to serve his punishment. Without his powers, he drops from the sky into the mortal world where he has taken the form of a teen. Two thugs then start beat him up when Meg, a demigod in disguise saves him. Apollo doesn't recognize the girls because she is in the form of a teenage girl. He starts off doubting her but later finds out about who she really is. He is able to get to Camp Half-blood with the help of Meg and Percy. On the way there, they are placed in a dangerous situation, when Meg unknowings summons an ally. When they get to the camp, they find out about the monster, Python, and now have to go on a quest to defeat him. Will Apollo be able to do this without his powers?

Personally, this book was very interesting. I really liked how the characters were developed throughout the story. Reading the book was time consuming, but it was worth it in the end. The book made me feel attached and empathetic to Apollo. The author's use of imagery paints a very detailed picture in your head. The book also delivers an important message to the reader: No matter how dire the situation is, all you need is hope to get through it. I recommend this book to people who like adventures. This book might be a little too complex and intense for young readers. But people who like to spend their time reading will really enjoy this book.

Reviewed by Aryan S., Grade 8
Glendale Central Library