A thoroughly enjoyable read, The Lightning Thief is an exemplar of a great read but a questionable book. While some elements of the narrative are laudable (e.g. loyalty, courage, heroism, etc.), western cultural superiority and American exceptionalism are core premises of the series, which is concerning for anyone who would read these books without critical consideration of the implications towards those who come from other cultural backgrounds. Ultimately, it is a fun story if you do not want to think too much and are willing to overlook its shortcomings.