Rick Riordan - Demigods and Monsters

Some of the spirits and monsters in the series remain true to their origins, but not all. Most Cyclopes are to be feared, but Tyson is a loveable baby who is one of the really good guys, as is Grover, and the Ophiotaurus, though it might be used for ill, is an innocent being. He saves Percy and relates well to Tyson, but the gods fear him, because he could bring an end to their existence. Possibly. Because no one really knows what would happen. Last time the Ophiotaurus was murdered, Zeus thwarted the final deed predicted to demolish the immortals for good. He sent an eagle to grab the poor dead creature’s entrails before they could be cast into a fire.

In The Sea of Monsters , Riordan cleverly recreates some of the most memorable episodes in Odysseus’ journey with just those monsters and other mythical creatures. Percy assumes the role of hero doing the rescuing, though in some cases he’s rescued (by Clarisse of all people!) himself. The sirens, who in ancient times seduced Odysseus’ crew with song, lure Annabeth with visions befitting a twenty-first-century half-blood: She sees her mortal dad and goddess mother picnicking with Luke in Central Park. Later Riordan reprises Jason’s ancient quest with his Argonauts.