After discovering his true heritage as a demigod, Percy Jackson must prevent a catastrophic war between the Greek gods by recovering Zeus's stolen master bolt. Percy Jackson, a twelve-year-old boy diagnosed with ADHD and dyslexia, finds his life upended when he is attacked by mythological creatures and whisked away to Camp Half-Blood. He must navigate a world where ancient Greek deities exist in modern America, facing monsters and divine politics while attempting to prove his innocence in the theft of a powerful weapon. The narrative is presented in a first-person perspective, utilizing a fast-paced, humorous tone to bridge the gap between contemporary adolescent struggles and epic fantasy stakes.

Readers frequently highlight the accessibility of the prose and the clever integration of classical mythology into a contemporary setting. Discussion often centers on the pacing of the quest and the development of the central trio as they navigate their identities. Critics note the effectiveness of the humor in balancing the high-stakes tension of the plot. Many readers appreciate how the narrative frames the protagonist's challenges as unique advantages rather than limitations. The work is widely recognized for establishing a foundation for modern middle-grade fantasy series.