Books that have Shaped My World-Part 1: The Awesomeness of Percy Jackson

The Percy Jackson Series is the most hallowed name in the world of books currently.It might even be as popular as the Harry Potter series,and that is saying a LOT.These books, were the ones that made my obsession with Greek Mythology seem less weird, and changed my status from being  a 'Greek Nerd' to being the new 'Storytelling Whiz'.It changed everyone's perspective about epics, in a non-preachy and extremely humorous way, while maintaining a very entertaining and gripping facade.The series revolves around Percy who discovers he is a powerful demi-god(half mortal,half god) and that the Gods of lore are alive and kicking in the modern world.He is taken to Camp Half-Blood, a place for 'special' children like him, where he is claimed by his Godly parent Poseidon. He is consequently sent on perilous quests to kill monsters, recover mystical objects,save friends and enemies,appease a wide range of Gods,save the world,yadda,yadda,yadda.
Its all in a day's work.

The protagonist of the books-Percy Jackson (Duh!)- is not a stereotypical hero.He is not charming or suave,neither is he rich or famous.He is not super-strong or arrogant like Hercules,but his grit and determination is to be envied.He discovers that he is the son of the Greek God of the Sea-Poseidon, which he is not exactly thrilled about,since it means that everyone with even the hint of power either hates him,wants to kill him or is in awe of him.Throughout the series, he battles monsters,gods,Titans and his inner demons.At the risk of sounding parrot like, the books remind us that being true to ourselves is the only way to succeed in life.

On the lighter side, the books are filled with extremely witty jokes,that do not fall flat.They also emphasize on the fact that no one, from the Gods or puny mortals, is infallible.The characters are extremely lovable,ranging from the sensible and cunning Annabeth Chase,who takes after her mother Athena,the Goddess of Wisdom,to Thalia Grace,Daughter of Zeus,who embodies Punk Rock.Rick Riordan manages to capture the magic of myths in an extremely zany and unforgettable way.There is not a single dull moment throughout the books,nor does it have vampires,and that is a wonder in itself. Another fact that makes PJ an EXCELLENT read is that the style of writing is extremely casual and informal, which is a great relief.There are some pretty bizarre situations in the books, that are laugh out loud crazy and I thoroughly enjoyed it!
All in all, this series cannot be dismissed as boring, cause it makes you sit up and take notice!
Definitely my All-Time Favourite! :D