The Sword of Summer by Rick Riordan

Publication Date:  October 6, 2015
Publisher:  Disney-Hyperion Books
Pages:  491
Series:  Magnus Chase and the Gods of Asgard #1
Genre:  Fantasy
Synopsis:  Magnus Chase has always been a troubled kid. Since his mother’s mysterious death, he’s lived alone on the streets of Boston, surviving by his wits, keeping one step ahead of the police and the truant officers.

One day, he’s tracked down by a man he’s never met—a man his mother claimed was dangerous. The man tells him an impossible secret: Magnus is the son of a Norse god.

The Viking myths are true. The gods of Asgard are preparing for war. Trolls, giants and worse monsters are stirring for doomsday. To prevent Ragnarok, Magnus must search the Nine Worlds for a weapon that has been lost for thousands of years.

When an attack by fire giants forces him to choose between his own safety and the lives of hundreds of innocents, Magnus makes a fatal decision.

Sometimes, the only way to start a new life is to die . . .

Review:  Years ago I remember my dad saying how cool it would be if Rick Riordan did a series based on the Norse gods.  Well, his wish came true.

I had forgotten just how hilarious Rick Riordan's writing is.  Be prepared to laugh.  While it isn't the most complex writing style, it flows well and is just plain fun.  The plot is the basic quest, as it has always been, and while this makes it predictable, there are still plenty of unexpected moments.

Myths are simply stories about truths we've forgotten

Norse mythology is a fascinating as it is confusing.  There are nine worlds, two distinct types of gods, and not to mention the other creatures.  Word of warning:  you will not be capable of pronouncing half of the Norse terms.  

Magnus is quite different to Percy Jackson.  He is more cynical, hates the color blue, and is extremely sarcastic.  Admittedly, he wasn't my favorite.  The other characters shined more.

Even if we can’t change the big picture, our choices can alter the details. That’s how we rebel against destiny

Hearthstone and Blitzen are the two best buddies of Magnus.  One happens to be an elf, the other a dwarf.  Blitzen, the wayward fashion designer, is the lovable sidekick.  Hearthstone, however, is my personal favorite.  

Hearthstone is deaf and has given up everything to learn magic.  He is loyal to his friends and is incredibly endearing.  I didn't expect much from him at the start, but he really rises to the occasion.  

Samirah is a Valkyrie and a daughter of Loki.  She is one tough cookie.  I mean, who wants to balance calculus homework and mythological responsibilities along with keeping it a secret from, well, everyone?  Not me. Also, don't worry, there is no romance to speak of, thankfully.

“I hate this plan,” I said. “Let’s do it.”

It has to be commented on that Annabeth Chase and her uncle made a few brief cameos.  I loved this to no end, just as I love Annabeth.  It's cool to see an example of how both mythologies coexist.

The Sword of Summer was a typical but solid start to a new series.  Rick Riordan injects levity into even the most dire of situations--I can't remember the last time I laughed so much.