**Inspiring a Love of Reading through Percy Jackson: A Mother and Daughter’s Journey**
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Jennifer Borget’s journey into the enchanting world of the Percy Jackson series began during her maternity leave after the birth of her eldest child. Searching for captivating literature to dive into, she quickly consumed the entire series, sharing a newfound passion she was eager to pass on to her daughter, Jayda. Now, years later, this mother-daughter duo has discovered a profound connection that has not only sparked Jayda’s interest in reading but also embraced and validated her experiences with dyslexia.
Borget was first introduced to the books through a friend’s recommendation. The stories follow Percy Jackson, a twelve-year-old boy who discovers he is the son of Poseidon, immersing readers in themes of Greek mythology intertwined with contemporary adventure. Eager to share these tales with her daughter, she decided to pick up the books when Jayda turned five. Interestingly, they first attempted to delve into Harry Potter, but it seemed to lack the magic that captured young Jayda’s imagination.
The intricate and vibrant world crafted by author Rick Riordan, filled with daring escapades and divine beings, resonated with both Borget and Jayda. Borget explained, “We adored the adventure and the incorporation of mythology. The concept of leading an ordinary life one day and suddenly realising you possess extraordinary traits is incredibly exciting. It makes you feel like such transformations could happen in your own life.”
Through her Instagram, Borget shared her experiences and the joy they found in Percy Jackson. She recounted how in 2016, at an age when many children are reading fluently, Jayda was struggling to keep up. However, her comprehension skills were remarkable. A tutor’s suggestion to test for a possible reading disability led to the heart-wrenching discovery of Jayda’s dyslexia, a conclusion that weighed heavily on Borget for some time.
Upon learning the diagnosis, Jayda surprised her mother with her positive attitude. “I’m dyslexic? COOL! I’m like Percy Jackson!” she exclaimed, instantly finding a connection to the character who, like her, faced similar challenges. In Riordan’s narratives, dyslexia becomes a unique trait of demigods, allowing Jayda to see her difference from a new perspective.
Reflecting on that moment, Borget noted the complexity of her emotions. She felt a mix of heartbreak, sadness, and guilt but also a sense of relief. Being aware of the support available meant a potential path forward for Jayda. “It was validating to know that it wasn’t a case of her not trying hard enough,” Borget elaborated. This revelation opened doors for acquiring the necessary tools that would enable Jayda to develop confidence in her reading abilities.
Borget expressed her gratitude that Jayda could connect with characters like Percy, who exemplified heroism through their unique traits. “It is immensely important for children to see heroes represented as individuals who overcome challenges rather than being defined by them,” she said, highlighting the empowering impact of such narratives.
Moreover, Borget emphasised the importance of diversity in storytelling, where children can encounter characters differing from themselves. She believes this exposure enriches children’s understanding of the world, showcasing various experiences based on appearance, personality, disabilities, and family structures.
Recently, the duo has been captivated by the new television adaptation of the Percy Jackson series. Borget noted how one of the cast members, Leah Jeffries, who portrays Annabeth Chase, acknowledged her on Instagram, causing great excitement for Jayda. “It was a major validation for her, knowing that her story resonated with an actor,” Borget observed, praising Jeffries’ portrayal as exceptional.
While Jayda may not have expressed an immediate desire to learn ancient Greek, her inquisitiveness about mythology has markedly grown. “She’s shown an interest in mythology and history, which is wonderful,” Borget remarked, sharing anecdotes about their recent experiences, including attending the musical Hadestown and their eagerness to explore The Odyssey together.
Borget’s journey with her daughter highlights the transformative power of literature. Through Percy Jackson, Jayda has not only found a relatable figure in her literary exploration but has also begun to embrace the beauty of her differences. This mother-daughter duo looks forward to many more adventures, both in mythology and in their shared love of reading.