The Lost Hero by Rick Riordan

In this sequel to the Last Olympian, a new demigod is introduced as a temporary replacement for Percy Jackson. His name is Jason and he wakes up on a school bus with no recollection of his past. However, when mythological storm spirits attack the children, Jason is able to fend them off, and he discovers he is a secret child of Zeus. Helped by his two sidekicks, Piper, a daughter of Aphrodite, and Leo, a son of Hephaestus, Jason embarks on a perilous quest. The goal is to free Hera from an unknown enemy that might be the strongest ever introduced. The Lost Hero is a suspenseful book that is full of humor. The point of view rotates between Jason and his friends, so each chapter is different and more interesting than the last. The characters in the book are all likable. The relationship between Jason and Piper is commonly referenced; Leo has his shining moments, also.

Any fan of the Percy Jackson series will immediately recognize Riordan's trademark wit and action. Riordan has a dry sense of humor. "Even before he got electrocuted, Jason was having a rotten day." The Lost Hero is a welcome addition, and sets the stage for even more mysterious monsters and heroes. This book is highly recommended for middle schoolers and young adults.

Preston