The Sun and the Star: A Nico di Angelo Adventure - Percy Jackson & the Olympians by Rick Riordan

Introduction

The Sun and the Star: A Nico di Angelo Adventure is a standalone novel within the expansive universe of Percy Jackson & the Olympians, co-authored by Rick Riordan and Mark Oshiro. Released in May 2023, this book marks a significant addition to the series, focusing on the adventures of Nico di Angelo, the son of Hades, and his boyfriend Will Solace, the son of Apollo.

Rick Riordan, renowned for his imaginative reinterpretations of Greek mythology, collaborates with Mark Oshiro, an out gay author, to bring a deeply personal and authentic narrative to life. This collaboration is notable for its contribution to the representation of LGBTQ+ characters in middle-grade literature, a genre where such representation is still relatively rare.

The Sun and the Star stands out within its genre for its mature handling of themes such as trauma, identity, and the complexities of relationships, all set against the rich backdrop of Greek mythology. The book has been praised for its emotional depth and its ability to balance the lighter, adventurous elements of the Percy Jackson series with more serious and introspective themes.

Plot Summary

The story begins two months after the defeat of Nero and Python, with Nico di Angelo being plagued by a voice calling out to him from Tartarus, the lowest part of the Underworld. He believes the voice belongs to Bob, a reformed Titan who was left behind by Percy Jackson and Annabeth Chase during their previous adventures in the Underworld^[1][5].

Nico’s dreams and a prophecy from Rachel Dare confirm his suspicions, and he decides to embark on a quest to rescue Bob, despite the reluctance of Chiron and Mr. D. Will Solace, Nico’s boyfriend, insists on accompanying him on this perilous journey.

Before departing, they seek advice from Percy and Annabeth, who share their own experiences of navigating Tartarus. The duo enters the Underworld through the Door of Orpheus and immediately faces the demon of nightmares, Epiales. Will discovers his ability to emit a beam of pure light, which proves crucial in defeating creatures of darkness^[2][5].

Their journey is fraught with challenges, including encounters with troglodytes, a heist in Persephone’s garden, and a confrontation with Menoetes. Persephone offers Will valuable advice on embracing his own inner darkness, rather than rejecting it, which becomes a pivotal moment in their journey^[2][5].

As they descend into Tartarus, they face overwhelming despair and pain, battling creatures like the cynocephali and confronting the personification of mania, Amphithemis. The journey tests their relationship, forcing them to confront their differences and learn to support each other in profound ways^[2][4].

Themes and Symbolism

At the heart of The Sun and the Star are several central themes that enrich the narrative and resonate deeply with readers. One of the most significant themes is the duality of light and darkness. Will, as the son of Apollo, represents light, while Nico, as the son of Hades, embodies darkness. However, the story underscores that these are not mutually exclusive but complementary aspects of existence. Persephone’s advice to Will highlights that "there cannot be light without darkness, nor darkness without light. You must have contrast for both to exist"^[3].

The symbolism of the sun and the star is also pivotal. Bob refers to Nico and Will as "my sun and my star," symbolizing their natures and the interplay between light and darkness. This symbolism suggests that both light and darkness coexist within individuals, and it is a matter of perspective how these elements are perceived^[3].

The book also delves into the themes of trauma, identity, and the complexities of relationships. Nico and Will’s journey is as much about facing external demons as it is about confronting their internal struggles. Their relationship is tested to the core, and they learn to appreciate and support each other in ways that are both realistic and heartwarming^[1][4].

Cultural Impact

The Sun and the Star: A Nico di Angelo Adventure has made a significant cultural impact, particularly in the realm of middle-grade literature. The book’s release was highly anticipated by fans of the Percy Jackson series, and it has been praised for its authentic portrayal of a gay relationship. Mark Oshiro’s contribution has been lauded for bringing a genuine and heartfelt representation of LGBTQ+ characters to the forefront^[4].

The book’s influence extends beyond the literary world, contributing to a broader cultural conversation about representation and diversity in children’s literature. It has been recognized as one of the best middle-grade books of 2023 by Kirkus Reviews, further solidifying its impact^[1].

Critical Reception

The Sun and the Star has received widespread critical acclaim for its storytelling, character development, and thematic depth. Reviewers have praised the book for its emotional maturity and its ability to balance light-hearted moments with more serious themes. The collaboration between Rick Riordan and Mark Oshiro has been particularly commended for its authenticity and sensitivity in portraying the relationship between Nico and Will^[4].

Some critics have noted that the book tackles complex issues such as trauma and identity with a level of sophistication that is rare in middle-grade literature. The book’s use of Greek mythology to explore universal themes has also been praised for making these myths feel relevant and accessible to a modern audience^[4].

Legacy

The Sun and the Star: A Nico di Angelo Adventure is likely to leave a lasting legacy in the world of children’s literature. It sets a new standard for representation and diversity, showing that complex themes and authentic portrayals of LGBTQ+ characters can be successfully integrated into middle-grade fiction.

The book’s impact on the Percy Jackson series is also significant, offering a fresh perspective on beloved characters and expanding the universe in meaningful ways. As a standalone adventure, it appeals not only to existing fans of the series but also to new readers who are drawn to its unique blend of mythology, adventure, and heartfelt storytelling.

In conclusion, The Sun and the Star is a compelling addition to the Percy Jackson universe, offering a rich and emotionally resonant story that explores the complexities of identity, relationships, and the interplay between light and darkness.