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Heroes in Training #2

Poseidon and the Sea of Fury

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A young Poseidon must triumph over aquatic terrors in this Heroes in Training adventure.

The merciless Cronus and his Titan buddies are in hot pursuit of Zeus, Hera, and Poseidon, who plan to travel across the treacherous boiling sea in order to save a fellow Olympian. They have a boat, but they also have a problem: Poseidon can’t swim and is terrified of the water (well, really of the creatures that lurk in its depths). The group faces danger after danger as they battle singing sirens, a fishy and ferocious Titan named Oceanus, and people-eating monsters sent by Cronus himself. Can Poseidon overcome his fears and help his fellow heroes escape Cronus and his cronies?

128 pages, Paperback

First published December 4, 2012

59 people are currently reading
743 people want to read

About the author

Joan Holub

349 books1,236 followers
NY Times bestselling children's book author:
GODDESS GIRLS series + HEROES IN TRAINING series (w Suzanne Williams); THIS LITTLE TRAILBLAZER a Girl Power Primer; ZERO THE HERO; I AM THE SHARK. Lucky to be doing what I love!

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5 stars
374 (49%)
4 stars
214 (28%)
3 stars
134 (17%)
2 stars
25 (3%)
1 star
10 (1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews
Profile Image for Toni Taylor.
133 reviews10 followers
July 31, 2023
I read this book while my son read it on his own time so we could talk about the book. We both like Greek mythology and adventure—this is the perfect combination! We’re excited to read more books of the series.
Profile Image for Sarah .
136 reviews1 follower
August 4, 2021
My 6yo is currently obsessed with all thinks Greek Myth. We saw this hook in the local library and he loved it! We read it every night before bed - Two chapters a night, which is impressive for him. He loves the story and the jokes and of course that there were pictures. The writing style was perfect, he could read it himself if he wanted to, we traded chapters at first but he wanted to read it faster, so that only lasted a day or two. He inhaled this book!
We are going back to the library tomorrow to get the first book. We read this one first because he likes Poseidon the best.
Profile Image for Tara Engel.
495 reviews2 followers
February 20, 2022
I love these books for helping kids get interested in mythology and start asking questions about the Gods and Goddesses. They also make me laugh.
Profile Image for Nikki in Niagara.
4,393 reviews175 followers
June 8, 2013
Great follow-up to the first book. I enjoyed this one much more. The kids’ personalities are shaping up and we have a trio on quest now making for better dynamics. Their quest for this book is to find the trident, unfortunately none of them knows what a trident is but Hera is sure it will be her magic weapon. As their magic stone heads them towards the boiling sea Poseidon is hilarious. You see the future (unbeknownst to him) King of the seas is afraid of the water, thinks it will melt him, can’t swim, gets sea sick and is generally miserable on the water. Little by little as the quest does take them out upon the ocean Poseidon does learn some truths bout himself and his whiny, scaredy character receives some much needed self-confidence. Again, this book is not true to Greek Mythology, many liberties have been taken but a basic storyline is in place that hopefully young readers will remember as they get older and venture further out into more closely tied mythology. In this volume we meet the Sirens luring sailors to their deaths, the Titan Oceanus, creatures of the sea that want to help Poseidon, the Androphagoi. It is while fighting Oceanus that they uncover their 4th member who was a prisoner of Oceanus, Hades. Hera set off on her own mission this volume and we haven’t seen her since so as we enter the third volume we have the three boys, Zeus, Prometheus and Hades in search for the Helm of Darkness. When and where will Hera return? An action-packed volume for the younger reader that introduces them to Ancient Greek myths.
Profile Image for Jocelin.
2,032 reviews47 followers
January 29, 2013
For some reason I continually come back to Joan Holub's mythology series. I have read a few books in the Goddess Girls series, and they are just okay. The stories seem cute enough, but they just don't draw me in. Sometimes I feel like I am reading a mythology book that was created for Nickelodeon. I think one of the reasons that I read her books is because they are such quick reads. I will probably read more books in the Goddess Girls series, but I won't continue with this one.
Profile Image for Renee.
877 reviews
May 11, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Four stars.

In the second book in this series, Zeus and Poseidon journey together with Hera to follow the next clues on their quest given to them by Pythia, the Oracle at Delphi. Of course at the beginning, Poseidon still doesn’t know that he is in fact the god of the ocean. So they start another adventure again, in search of a mysterious trident which no one has any idea what it does, or even what it looks like. With some guidance from Chip and some much needed assistance from a benevolent fisherman, the trio make their way out into the boiling ocean. Of course, like any adventure, they come across many obstacles and difficulties that they must move through to reach their goal. I won’t say much more about the story side of things.

I still really enjoyed this light hearted and funny kid friendly version of the Ancient Greek myths. I love the banter between Zeus, Hera and Poseidon. They act like grumpy siblings. I think this is such a great way to introduce kids to Ancient Greek mythology, and I can’t wait until my kids are a year or two older and they can read this themselves and I can share with them my love of Ancient Greek Mythology and history. There is plenty of action, adventure and humour in the story too, so lots to keep the younger people engaged with the story, whilst also learning at the same time. The illustrations are great too.
221 reviews1 follower
February 9, 2024
I would have given this a lower review, but my kids liked it (early elementary age). They enjoy this series.

I'm not a fan. It moves at a really fast pace, as characters jump from one peril to another, seemingly without solving much. The scene that should be the main action sequence (acquiring the item of their quest) is a snooze, since we don't get to see any of this. Characters make weird decisions to just push the plot along. There is literally no difference between any of the personalities, except that Hera is "annoying". The last two chapters suddenly become about a totally different battle for no apparent reason than to include a different character (who had nothing to do with the plot thus far), and it's a bizarre afterthought.

I don't hate it enough to not read it to my kids when they ask, but I certainly wouldn't recommend it. I guess it's just one of those sacrifices parents need to make.
Profile Image for Brenda.
1,337 reviews21 followers
September 1, 2018
I have 3rd graders interested in mythology and this is a well written, interesting series without the girl drama or unnecessary (IMHO)sarcasm found in others. I also appreciate how one book leads to the next. A hook that is often needed by readers of this age. There are 15 in the series - I've read the first 4 and I'll keep going and talking them up in our classroom.
Profile Image for Marie B..
727 reviews10 followers
December 29, 2021
I am so in awe of authors who rewrite the Greek mythologies and make them even more interesting then they are by targeting the younger audience. This 54-year-old finds each new rendition fascinating and drawn back to the original stories. I can’t wait to read this one with my second graders.
Profile Image for Tara Ethridge.
1,001 reviews32 followers
February 25, 2022
Cute series about the young Olympians who don't know their powers yet. This book follows Poseidon and the quest to find the trident. Lots of adventures, running away from bad guys, forming of friendships and a dash of silliness.
3 reviews
March 24, 2022
A great and suprising book. It is kind of funny when Poseideon the god of water thinks he will melt and is afraid of water. It's my favorite book in the series. My favorite part is when fish just jump in the boat because Poseidon wants them.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for MaddieMoo.
6 reviews
March 18, 2018
This was a funny book that shows friendship and teamwork.
- MKM age 7
2 reviews
September 24, 2019
Great second book in the series. It’s wonderful to read with my son as he is learning to read and it keeps him engaged while we read. A really great book and series.
Profile Image for Jane Love.
505 reviews1 follower
March 26, 2020
Hera, Poseidon and Zeus head to the sea looking for the trident, Hera doesn't go all the way with them as she turns back, after a fight Poseidon finds Hades
Profile Image for Emma.
4,967 reviews12 followers
July 14, 2020
I can't seem to think of what Hera's "super power" is. She is the goddess of women, right? Can she, turn men into women? Or help with childbirth?
1 review
March 9, 2022
Such a fun book

My kids and I love this series. We laugh, talk about the characters and spend time together reading. We highly recommend this series for girls and boys.
Profile Image for Charlotte.
6 reviews
July 26, 2019
The writing is perfectly serviceable, though without any distinguishing characteristics. It's like those MFA bores all are.
Profile Image for Mouse.
1,181 reviews8 followers
June 12, 2017
My 7 year old is reviewing this:

I enjoyed it because it was actiony, it had lots of action.
I love mythology and the gods, like Zeus, Poseidon, they're cool!

So there you have it! 😊
Profile Image for Linda Jaejoong.
579 reviews6 followers
January 6, 2017
Ich liebe Joan Holub und Suzanne Williams einfach, sie haben so viele gute Ideen und schreiben so schöne Bücher. Das ist meine 3 Buchreihe von ihnen, nach den "Goddess Girls" und den "Grimmtastic Girls". Da ich Göttergeschichten liebe musste ich natürlich auch die "Heroes in Training" Reihe versuchen und bin bis jetzt begeistert. In Band 2 der Reihe geht es um Poseidon, der zusammen mit Zeus und Hera auf der Suche nach dem magischen Dreizack ist.

Ich fand Poseidon so niedlich, er ist nach Hades mein liebster Gott. Er ist der Gott des Meeres, hat aber Angst vor Wasser und kann nicht schwimmen. Man muss seine Art einfach mögen. Zeus fand ich ein klein wenig arrogant und hoffe das er in dem Punkt sich noch ändert. Hera war einfach Hera, dass sagt glaube ich schon alles. Eigentlich wollten die drei nur einen Dreizack finden, aber sie finden auch noch etwas anderes, verlieren dafür aber auch etwas wichtiges.

Fazit: Das Buch war sehr unterhaltsam und sehr spannend. Der Humor kam auch nicht zu kurz und es hat sich sehr flüssig lesen lassen. Wie die Anderen Reihen wird auch die "Heroes in Training" Reihe vom Aladdin Verlag heraus gebracht. Ich liebe den Aladdin Verlag, er gestaltet die Cover immer so schön und auch die Buchseiten sind sehr schön verziert.

Der Schreibstil der Autorinnen ist so toll und sie verstehen es den Leser zu verzaubern. Leider ist das Buch etwas kurz, aber das war auch bei den ersten Büchern der "Goddess Girls" Reihe so und ich hoffe wirklich das die Folge Bände etwas länger werden. Ich finde die Geschichten einfach so toll und sie lesen sich immer so schnell durch, ich brauche einfach mehr Seiten. In der "Goddess Girls" Reihe sind die Bücher auch länger geworden, also habe ich auch Hoffnung für diese Reihe!!
Profile Image for Angelc.
422 reviews53 followers
January 7, 2013
This story may be short, page-wise, but don't let that make you think that not a lot happens! There are so many adventures in this book! As soon as the heroes solve one problem, there is another adventure right on it's heels! It really makes the book fly by, there is never a dull moment.

The second story in the new Heroes in Training series still focuses on Zeus as the main character, but we learn a lot more about his new friend Poseidon. I thought the book might feature Poseidon as the main character, but it's still really Zeus' story. But Poseidon is a main player in the tale this time, and he learns a lot about himself and his abilities during this journey.


Like the first book, I loved the character of Bolt, Zeus' lightning bolt. It is so fun that he has his own personality, and acts like a sweet little puppy dog. That is unless he zapping enemies! His moods are directly affected by Zeus' own moods and feelings.

By the end, Poseidon has gained more self confidence, which is great to see. The book ends with an introduction to Hades, the star of the next book. I couldn't believe the cliffhanger at the end as well! (Hera!!)

Overall, a great addition to a wonderful new series, with generous helpings of adventure, courage, and friendship.



book sent by the authors in exchange for an honest review

reviewed for http://inthehammockblog.blogspot.com

Profile Image for Emily.
101 reviews53 followers
December 2, 2012
This review and others is on my blog: https://simple-books.blogspt.com

I received an ARC of this book from the authors! Thanks so much ladies!

This is a new series by Joan Holub & Suzanne Williams! Authors of the Goddess Girls series. It's the second in the series and equally as awesome to the Goddess Girls. I would say it would be stand alone, though there are some details that are said that you probably wouldn't understand if you didn't read the first.

I have to say, I was a bit confused at first because I forgot that these weren't the same characters as in Goddess Girls!

What I liked the most is that the the book was quick and fast, but it didn't affect the book at all. There was this one part that I thought should have been longer though. The part with the Sirens could have been longer, like maybe we could have seen more of a fight? It doesn't really matter.

I didn't really dislike anything, but I am mad at Hera for leaving! They should have stuck together! Poseidon and Zeus should've convinced her to stay! And the part where they find Hades. I think that part could have been longer too. I would have loved to see how it looked like down there in a more detailed way and how he got Hades free without him drowning.

Overall, this was a pretty good read! 4.5 Stars!
Profile Image for Sandeen Scotto.
22 reviews
August 12, 2015
The second book in the series is all about the God of the Sea....that would be a 10 year old boy named Poseidon. The problem is he's afraid of water. Off Zeus, Hera and Poseidon go on a journey into a bubbling sea to look for a trident. On their adventure, they noticed a handful of sea creatures that are suddenly very attached to Poseidon and they can't figure out why. Until they run into Oceanus (a cronie of Cronus) and the Trident. Hera decided before all of this happens, she would look for the trident herself and disappeared with a dolphin. This ultimately left Zeus and Poseidon. Poseidon and Oceanus decided to have an all out battle in the sea and oddly enough, the boy who was afraid of the water, turned out to be the God of the Sea (and not afraid of the water after all). While Poseidon defeated Oceanus, he found caged...Hades...whom didn't mind too much being down at the bottom of the sea...in the dark...hmmm...in the meantime...Zeus, Poseidon and Hades are now off on another adventure to look for an underworld and beat another monster (another Creature of Chaos). looking forward to my next adventure!
Profile Image for Richard.
204 reviews14 followers
December 7, 2012
Synopsis: Zeus, Hera, and Poseidon, are young Olympians. They have been given a quest to find a Trident which will help them in the battle against the evil Titans. The trident is located in turbulent, boiling seas, all the kids have is a rickety old boat, to make matters worse Poseidon can’t swim! The group faces many dangers including Titans, Sirens and monsters with their faces in the middle of their bodies!

Review: In full disclosure I won this book in a Goodreads Giveaway.

This was a fun and quick read. The story is set in ancient Greece, but the kids speak like modern children making it easy for a younger audience to follow. There is plenty of action, adventure and humour in the book which all help move the story along fast and make it enjoyable.

The book is probably aimed at ages eight and older, I know I would have loved it at that age, and it was still enjoyable as an adult. Although this book is aimed at a slightly younger audience, fans of Percy Jackson will probably enjoy this book as well.
Profile Image for Elissa Schaeffer.
387 reviews11 followers
May 29, 2013
I think this may have been more clever than the first. We're still getting the story through the eyes of Zeus, "clueless godboy" according to Pythia at the beginning of the book. But we've added more characters in Hera and Poseidon--who, by the way, can't swim and thinks he'll melt if he gets in the water! This is the sort of thing that makes this fun to read. It's the basic Greek mythology story told with lots of love and fun and that contemporary language that I think will appeal to young readers.

I also like that the Olympians are the young kids in training--this adds to the fun of the story as it's not an angle played very often when retelling these stories.

Again, lots of fun, and great appeal to those just starting traditional chapter books and those who are just getting interested in ancient mythology.
Profile Image for Lisa.
523 reviews6 followers
June 18, 2015
Poseidon doesn't really know his own skills yet. He was only rescued from Cronus's stomach a short time ago with his Olympian siblings. Together with Zeus and Hera they are searching for The Trident. This 2nd book in the series "Heroes in Training" is a great short, chapter series for readers who aren't ready for the depth of Percy Jackson's exploits. I like this book and this series better than my 3 stars shows here. I wish I could note a 3.5 in my opinion. I like the book for the purpose of this series and I can't wait to get these books in my school library. I know 2nd and 3rd grade children who will LOVE these books!
140 reviews1 follower
November 8, 2016
After hearing from a parent that kids were talking about this series at school and they thought it would be a good to series after enjoying Magic Tree House I thought I would give it a whirl. It's a great fit for mid to upper elementary aged readers who can confidently read chapter books and are aspiring Rick Riordan fans. Due to the subject matter mentions of violence and sexism do exist so keep that in mind especially with impressionable readers. If your child enjoys adventure, different time periods, and is curious about Greek gods this may be just the right series. It won't win any literary awards but young fans of adventure and humor will enjoy.
Profile Image for Yapha.
3,298 reviews107 followers
April 14, 2013
The second book in the Heroes in Training series (I didn't read the first) has young Zeus, Hera, and Poseidon on a quest to retrieve the magic trident from Oceanus. These books are about the early stories of the Greek Gods, as they are battling against Cronus and the Titans. It is fast paced and silly at times. I recommend it for younger students who are interested in learning more about mythology, but aren't ready for the Percy Jackson series yet.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews

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