PENGUIN Daughter of the Deep

Okay. I’m a Riordan fan. And I was soooooo excited for this book to come out. I expected so much from this book, especially with Riordan himself saying it was a topic that he’d been wanting to write about for so long.So, when I started reading it, I was expecting the usual epic fair of adventure, mystery, daring fights etc., and of course as this would be a science-fiction (a Verne no less) some fantastical tech thrown in. All in all a fast paced thrill ride.I didn’t really get that, though. I got a children’s/Riordan reinvention/sequel of a Verne novel. It’s a bit jarring and takes a while to get used to (a good job really, because the book itself has a few pacing issues). Furthermore, while there are some great Verne references within the novel which are great plot points, they’re also made to feel a bit trite in some places and overdone - this is because of the sheer amount of them being introduced to the main character all in one go. And I was a bit disappointed because I guessed who the villain was straight away! Like, when they’re first introduced. Don’t get me started on the Harry Potter joke in there… it’s only a reference but the ‘houses’ thing is irritating (this is a personal opinion, I actually do like HP, just not here).This makes me seem like I’m going on a huge rant, but there are things that I love about this book. I adore Riordan’s creative manipulation of Captain Nemo and his family within the book, as well as the Nautilus. The ‘Sea Monster’ too, is an excellent touch and the teenagers within the novel are exceptionally well written. As always, Riordan presents us with realistic characters from all backgrounds who have actual, relatable flaws. Even our villain, in my opinion, could in their own way be considered more of a dark antagonist (with a lot of issues). Which leads me to my favourite aspect of the book.Socrates.He’s a dolphin. He loves squid. He’s awesome.Overall I believe this is, in Riordan standards, an okay book. To everyone else, that’s good. It’s worth the read and I would encourage young readers to try this out. It would be incredibly useful to anyone reading this to have some knowledge of one or more of the Verne films or books just for a bit of background, I think.Enjoy!This book is not for 9-11 year olds! I’d say it’s better for 12 years plus.

It was appreciated by target audience.

My son had read every Rick book and was not disappointed by this one. Hopefully it will become a series.

Daughter of the Deep was my first read of Rick Riordan and it did not disappoint. I surely recommend this book to read!!

I haven’t read it .