Fanfiction based on Rick Riordan’s Percy Jackson & The Olympians series often incorporates the act of characters within the narrative engaging with the original books. This can manifest in various ways, such as characters discovering the books as historical accounts of their own lives, or using them as guides or prophecies for future events. This narrative device can create a metafictional layer, blurring the lines between the fictional world and the real world where the books exist as published works.
Integrating the original novels into the narrative offers several advantages. It can be a powerful tool for character development, allowing exploration of themes like fate, free will, and the nature of storytelling. It provides opportunities for humorous situations and allows writers to comment on the original series, either celebrating its strengths or exploring perceived weaknesses. Furthermore, it can foster a deeper connection with the reader, who likely shares the experience of reading the source material. This shared experience creates a sense of community and reinforces the existing fan base.
