The Tower of Nero
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Screen for YOUR familyParent's Guide to The Tower of Nero
The Tower of Nero is the fifth and final installment in Rick Riordan's best-selling Trials of Apollo series, concluding the adventures of the Greek god Apollo, cast down to Earth as the mortal teenager Lester Papadopoulos. The book follows Lester and his demigod companion Meg McCaffrey as they face their final challenge at the Tower of Nero in New York, confronting ancient enemies and powerful Roman emperors to restore Apollo's divine status. This middle-grade fantasy novel, suitable for readers aged 10 and up, is a blend of action, humor, and mythological adventure. It explores themes of humility, self-sacrifice, and the complexities of family and identity, offering a heartfelt conclusion to the overarching Percy Jackson universe. The narrative continues to feature a diverse cast of characters, building on the inclusivity established in previous Riordan works.
Things to Consider
LGBTQ & Gender Identity
The book features significant and explicit LGBTQ+ representation, which is a consistent and intentional element across Rick Riordan's later works. Characters identify as gay, bisexual, and have same-sex relationships. The author has publicly discussed his commitment to diverse representation, including LGBTQ+ identities.
Nico di Angelo is explicitly identified as gay, and his established relationship with Will Solace (son of Apollo) is central to his character arc. Nico introduces Will as his 'glow-in-the-dark boyfriend'. Piper McLean is depicted kissing a girl named Shel, indicating her bisexuality or pansexuality. The protagonist, Apollo, is canonically bisexual, with references to his past male and female lovers, including the emperor Commodus.
Witchcraft & Occult
As with all books in the Percy Jackson universe, 'The Tower of Nero' is deeply rooted in Greek and Roman mythology, featuring gods, demigods, monsters, prophecies, and magic. These elements are fundamental to the world-building and plot.
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Additional Context
Best For Ages
Recommended for ages 10+ (grades 5-9) due to its middle-grade designation, age-appropriate language, and complex themes presented in an accessible manner. The book contains mythological violence, intense situations, and notable LGBTQ+ representation, which some parents may wish to discuss with younger readers.
Good to Know
The Trials of Apollo series, and 'The Tower of Nero' in particular, marks an intentional increase in diverse representation, including LGBTQ+ characters, by author Rick Riordan. Parents should be aware that these themes are openly discussed and are part of the ongoing character development. The book also delves into heavier emotional topics such as emotional abuse and PTSD, presented with sensitivity appropriate for its middle-grade audience.
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