The Ship of the Dead by Rick Riordan

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5 Stars (5 / 5)

Magnus Chase and the Gods of Asgard #3
Great conclusion to the series! I think what I love most about Magnus Chase, is he is not your typical hero. He’s not very good at fighting (his animate sword Jack takes care of most of the fighting for him), he’s not a brilliant strategist or master planner, and his “demigod” powers include healing and “The Peace of Frey” which blasts the weapons from everyone’s hands (his allies included). But above all Magnus is caring, loyal, and determined – and he surrounds himself with a group of powerful and resourceful allies.

Many of our side character’s get the highlight in The Ship of the Dead. Mallory and T.J. in particular get a great spotlight. And Alex Fierro has become one of my favorite character’s ever! As a gender fluid character, she/he is probably the most unique character I’ve seen in popular literature and really put a “face” to an identity I was basically unfamiliar with. Thank you Riordan for challenging our beliefs and presenting such diverse characters to our children. I really believe that it’s books like this that will help to breed more understanding and inclusive generations.

Religion is also handled so well in this series. The dichotomy between Muslim Samirah and Atheist Magnus is handled with tack and understanding, and projects such a wonderful message of inclusion that it warms my soul. Not to mention mixing this with a world where the Norse gods are real and coexist with these other faiths.

Overall, a great ending to the series. Though we are finished with Magnus and friends for now, I have no doubt that they will pop up at some future point in Riordan’s writing (Percy Jackson does make an appearance in this book after all). As always, looking forward to more from my favorite Middle Grade author.

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