User Profile

William V

willtheorangeguy@bookwyrm.social

Joined 2 years, 6 months ago

An avid Python and web developer, travelling, coding, and reading great, grand and glorious books, throughout the world!

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William V's books

Currently Reading

2025 Reading Goal

58% complete! William V has read 7 of 12 books.

Rick Riordan: The Demigod Files (A Percy Jackson and the Olympians Guide) (Hardcover, 2009, Hyperion Book CH)

The Demigod Files is a companion book to the Percy Jackson and the Olympians series. …

The Demigod Files by Rick Riordan

This companion book largely serves as supplementary material, offering brief stories and character profiles rather than a substantive narrative contribution to the main series. The content often feels like a collection of deleted scenes or minor anecdotes, lacking the depth or dramatic tension found in the primary Percy Jackson novels. While it provides some additional insights into the world and its inhabitants, it doesn't significantly enhance the reader's understanding or appreciation of the core storyline. Its primary appeal is for die-hard fans seeking more of the universe, but it's largely dispensable for those focused on the main plot progression.

Scott Pape: The Barefoot Investor (2016)

The Barefoot Investor by Scott Pape

This financial guide often simplifies complex financial concepts to an extent that might not fully prepare readers for real-world nuances. While the "mojo" system provides a clear framework, its rigid structure might not be flexible enough for individuals with diverse financial situations or goals. The advice, while practical for a specific demographic, can feel prescriptive and lacks extensive consideration for broader economic conditions or individual risk tolerances. The book's heavy reliance on specific Australian financial products and institutions limits its direct applicability for readers outside of that country.

reviewed The Last Olympian by Rick Riordan (Percy Jackson and the Olympians)

Rick Riordan: The Last Olympian (Paperback, 2014, Disney Hyperion)

All year the half-bloods have been preparing for battle against the Titans, knowing the odds …

Percy Jackson and the Last Olympian by Rick Riordan

As the supposed grand finale, this book offers a predictable culmination of the series' overarching prophecy, with familiar characters facing the expected ultimate antagonist. The narrative largely consists of a prolonged battle sequence, which, while action-packed, can become monotonous and lacks significant strategic depth. Character arcs, having been developed over several books, largely conclude as anticipated, offering little in the way of surprising revelations or profound growth. The plot ties up loose ends in a rather convenient manner, leaving few questions unanswered and maintaining a tidy, if unchallenged, resolution. The emotional beats, while present, often feel somewhat manufactured, aiming for sentimentality without consistently earning it through nuanced character interactions.

reviewed The Battle of the Labyrinth by Rick Riordan (Percy Jackson and the Olympians, #4)

Rick Riordan: The Battle of the Labyrinth (Hardcover, 2008, Disney Hyperion Books)

The Battle of the Labyrinth is an American fantasy-adventure novel based on Greek mythology written …

Percy Jackson and the Battle of the Labyrinth

The reliance on ancient Greek myths for plot points can feel formulaic, offering predictable encounters with well-known figures. While the stakes are ostensibly high, the narrative often feels repetitive, with the heroes constantly overcoming improbable odds with little genuine consequence. Character development largely stagnates, with established personalities being reinforced rather than evolving significantly. The humor, while present, can feel forced at times, and the overall plot progression often feels like a bridge to the inevitable climax of the series rather than a compelling standalone story.

Rick Riordan: Percy Jackson and the Lightning Thief (Paperback, 2009, Puffin Books)

Percy Jackson and the Lightning Thief by Rick Riordan

This is a great book (and a great series) that I should have read when I was in grade five, its target audience. It reads at that level, and the storytelling and foreshadowing are also at that level. If you want to learn about the Greek gods and goddesses though, this is a great read - and it was a quick one as well.

reviewed Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros (The Empyrean, #1)

Rebecca Yarros: Fourth Wing (Hardcover, 2023, Little, Brown Book Group Limited)

Twenty-year-old Violet Sorrengail was supposed to enter the Scribe Quadrant, living a quiet life among …

Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros

It features a fast-paced plot with constant threats, rivalries, and unexpected twists that keep you engaged. The core of the story revolves around the bond between riders and their dragons, exploring themes of loyalty, trust, and the cost of power. While categorized as a romance, the romance develops alongside a compelling fantasy narrative, but can sometimes be overpowering, especially during the more passionate scenes.

Keith Bradford: Travel Hacks (2021, Adams Media Corporation)

Travel Hacks by Keith Bradford

This book offers practical advice for making travel smoother and more enjoyable. It focuses on solving common travel problems and simplifying tasks. You'll find a wide range of tips aimed at reducing frustration. It's a useful resource for anyone looking to make their next trip more awesome.