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
Comments
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
I would recommend this book to anyone who is above 12 years of age. It contains a lot of violence, which might be unsettling to younger readers. I loved this book very much. It was action-packed and hilarious. Because of the immense difference between being a god, and then suddenly a mortal with no powers, it was interesting to see how Apollo got around obstacles. If you read the Percy Jackson series, and The Heroes of Olympus series, this should be next on your list. It continues off from what happened at the end of The Heroes of Olympus and has appearances from those characters. This was a great book, so if you’re looking for something adventurous, funny, and also with many diverse and inclusive characters, then this is a good choice.
Reviewed by Angelina B., Grade 11
Brand Library & Art Center