While I can imagine that The Lightning Thief would have resonated more deeply with me had I read it during its peak popularity, I still found it to be an engaging and delightful story about the son of Poseidon. As an adult revisiting YA literature, I appreciated how the author, Rick Riordan, makes choices that resonate with younger audiences. The exploration of themes like feeling "different" in school is both relatable and heartfelt. I particularly liked how Riordan addresses sensitive topics such as ADHD and dyslexia, showing how they can be both challenges and strengths. It’s refreshing to see a narrative that celebrates uniqueness rather than shying away from it.

Having grown up with Harry Potter, I admit I might be a bit biased in my comparisons. While it’s often not advisable to pit series against each other, I do feel that Harry Potter retains a certain timelessness that makes it enjoyable for adults, whereas The Lightning Thief is more rooted in the YA genre and has a straightforward narrative style. That said, I still found it to be a charming read that captures the essence of youthful adventure and friendship. Overall, I’m glad I took the time to experience this modern classic!