If you’re on the hunt for a new book series to start, the Percy Jackson series could be just what the doctor ordered. And right now’s the perfect time to begin the series since Percy celebrates his birthday later this month. If you need a bit of background information before you start reading, we’ll fill you in on everything you need to know. 

Who Is Percy Jackson?

Percy Jackson is the title hero in the epic series Percy Jackson and the Olympians. At the young age of 12, he learned the startling truth about his family’s lineage. He’s the son of a mortal woman and the god Poseidon. 

When Is Percy Jackson’s Birthday? 

Percy Jackson’s birthday is on August 18. Although many fans believe he was born around 1993, author Rick Riordan confirmed on his blog that he intentionally omitted including a birth year. That’s because he wants Percy to exist as you’re reading the books! 

How Many Books Are in the Percy Jackson Series? 

There are seven books in the Percy Jackson series. This doesn’t include the five-volume graphic novel series, also available on Hoopla. The first book was released in 2005. In the years since the first book was released, Percy Jackson has grown in popularity to the point where he now has his own show on Disney+! 

Books in the Percy Jackson and the Olympians Series 

If you’re curious about where to start, some suggestions include: 

Percy Jackson and the Olympians, Book One: The Lightning Thief

In the first book of the saga, Percy Jackson and the Olympians, Book One: The Lightning Thief, we find Percy struggling to adjust to life at his new boarding school. Aside from struggling to manage his temper and being unable to focus on schoolwork, he also has to deal with a math teacher who can transform into a monster and attack when he least expects. 

Percy Jackson and the Olympians: A Guide to Gods & Monsters

In Percy Jackson and the Olympians: A Guide to Gods & Monsters, readers are introduced to the gods and monsters of Percy Jackson’s world. This guide is a great primer if you’re curious about the characteristics that make Percy Jackson’s enemies so tough for him to overcome. 

Percy Jackson and the Olympians: The Lightning Thief (graphic novel)

If you liked the first edition of Percy Jackson and the Olympians, you’ll love the comic version of The Lightning Thief. Enjoy the imagery that accompanies Percy’s quest to unravel powerful treachery by checking it out today!  

Percy Jackson and the Olympians: The Chalice of the Gods 

After you’ve read the books in the main series, the next step is to check out Percy Jackson and the Olympians: The Chalice of the Gods, where Percy is hoping for a regular senior year. But much to his dismay, the gods are putting him through the ringer by making him fulfill three quests. He must complete them to receive three must-have letters of recommendation from Mount Olympus for college, and he needs them fast.  

From Percy Jackson: Camp Half-Blood Confidential

From Percy Jackson: Camp Half-Blood Confidential serves as a real guide to the Demigod Training Camp. Along with answers to frequently asked questions like “What is this place,” words of wisdom are offered from the god Apollo as well.   

Explore the World of Percy Jackson Today on Hoopla—Free with a Library Card! 

As Percy Jackson’s birthday approaches, now’s the perfect time to begin the journey of Percy Jackson and the Olympians. And with the titles available on Hoopla right now, diving in has never been easier. Find out why the popularity of the series has skyrocketed over the years by embarking on a quest with Percy Jackson today! 

*Title availability may vary