Rick Riordan's The Hidden Oracle captivates with its humor, wit, and inventive take on Greek mythology, making it a hit among fans. Apollo's character development and relatable struggles are praised, but some critics feel the plot is formulaic and targeted more towards younger readers. Overall, it’s a delightful start to the Trials of Apollo series.

Readers who relish Percy Jackson & the Olympians and Harry Potter will adore The Hidden Oracle. Ideal for young adults aged 12-18, this novel blends mythology with contemporary issues, offering humor, adventure, and relatable teen dilemmas. Fans of fantasy and those interested in Greek mythology will find it especially captivating.

In The Hidden Oracle, the god Apollo falls to Earth as a mortal teenager named Lester Papadopoulos, sent by Zeus as punishment. Apollo teams up with demigod Meg McCaffrey to reach Camp Half-Blood, encountering dangers such as nosoi, plague spirits, and giant ants. At camp, they confront Nero and attempt to save the lost Oracle of Dodona. The book contains themes of grief and loss.

Humorous / Adventurous / Fantastical / Emotional / Suspenseful

- The Hidden Oracle, published in 2016, is the first book in Rick Riordan's The Trials of Apollo series, which explores what happens when the Greek god Apollo is punished by Zeus and cast down to Earth as a mortal.
- Rick Riordan uses his teaching experience to incorporate educational elements into The Hidden Oracle, introducing young readers to Greek mythology through the eyes of contemporary characters.
- The Hidden Oracle spent multiple weeks on the New York Times Best Seller list for children's middle-grade hardcover books, showcasing its popularity upon release.

**Apollo Lester Papadopoulos**  
The son of Zeus transformed into a mortal teenager named Lester Papadopoulos, who embarks on a quest to regain his divine status while struggling with his human limitations and newfound emotions.

**Meg McCaffrey**  
A twelve-year-old demigod daughter of Demeter, she is characterized by her strong personality and is central to the plot’s progression through her complex relationship with Apollo.

**Nero/The Beast**  
The villain of the story, an ancient Roman emperor with a hunger for power and immortality, who manipulates and controls characters around him for his own gain.

**Peaches**  
A karpos or grain spirit who is fiercely protective of Meg and symbolizes a connection to nature with his primal energy and limited but growing vocabulary.

**Percy Jackson**  
A demigod son of Poseidon known for his previous adventures, who provides crucial assistance to Apollo and Meg on their journey when needed.

**Rhea**  
A quirky goddess who aids and advises Apollo through dreams and warnings, providing guidance and tools for his quest.

**Leo Valdez**  
A demigod son of Hephaestus known for his resourcefulness and heroism, who eventually joins Apollo in preparation for future adventures.

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Chapters 1-4

The Hidden Oracle Chapters 1-4 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 5-8

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Chapters 9-12

The Hidden Oracle Chapters 9-12 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 13-16

The Hidden Oracle Chapters 13-16 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 17-20

The Hidden Oracle Chapters 17-20 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 21-24

The Hidden Oracle Chapters 21-24 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 25-28

The Hidden Oracle Chapters 25-28 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 29-32

The Hidden Oracle Chapters 29-32 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 33-36

The Hidden Oracle Chapters 33-36 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 37-39

The Hidden Oracle Chapters 37-39 Summary & Analysis

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Introduction

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Before Reading

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