Fans of the Percy Jackson and the Olympians series will be thrilled that Percy Jackson himself is one of the featured demigods in The Mark of Athena, the third installment in the Heroes of Olympus fantasy adventure series. These books make mythology relatable to a young audience by incorporating action, humor, and references to modern cultural icons (iPhones, YouTube videos, etc.). Told from the alternating perspective of four of the demigods, the story is one of teamwork, as each teen uses their individual strengths for the greater good. Like the previous books, the author has done a nice job of incorporating diverse characters--thirteen-year-old Hazel and sixteen-year-old Frank are both biracial. There are three couples among the main characters, but romantic encounters are limited to kissing. Readers with ADHD may appreciate the fact that these learning disabilities are very common among the demigod kids. The action-packed plot does involve some weapons and violence but the context is pure fantasy--battles take place only with monsters and other fictional creatures. This series (best read in order) will be enjoyed both by those who have not read the Percy Jackson and the Olympians series, and by fans who would like to read more of the familiar formula. Parents will enjoy this story's subtle lessons in Roman and Greek mythology (the author provides a helpful glossary) and readers will be eager for the next installment as The Mark of Athena ends with another cliffhanger.
