Percy Jackson and the Olympians, Book One The Lightning Thief (Percy Jackson & the Olympians) by Rick Riordan

A dyslexic, ADHD-diagnosed twelve-year-old discovers he's a modern-day demigod after his pre-algebra teacher transforms into a mythological monster and attacks him. Percy Jackson's ordinary boarding school troubles become epic when Zeus's master lightning bolt is stolen, making him the prime suspect and forcing him on a cross-country quest to prevent a war among the gods.

Riordan masterfully blends authentic Greek mythology with contemporary middle school humor, creating a hero whose learning differences become strategic advantages in battling ancient creatures. Young readers who've ever felt out of place will see themselves in Percy's journey, while the breakneck plot and witty dialogue ensure even reluctant readers will devour this modern adventure story that makes ancient legends feel thrillingly immediate.