Here's a breakdown of the exposition in *The Lightning Thief*:
Setting: The story is set in the modern world with a twist: the Greek Gods and mythical creatures are real and hidden among us.
Introduction of Percy: We meet Percy Jackson, a troubled teenager struggling with dyslexia and ADHD, who discovers he's the son of Poseidon, the Greek god of the sea.
The Conflict: Percy is accused of stealing Zeus' lightning bolt, sparking a war between the gods. He must embark on a dangerous quest to clear his name and find the real thief.
Character Introductions: We meet other key characters who become Percy's companions on his quest: Annabeth Chase, a daughter of Athena, and Grover Underwood, a satyr and Percy's protector.
Introduction of the World: The exposition reveals the hidden world of demigods, mythical creatures, and the dangers they face. We learn about Camp Half-Blood, a safe haven for demigods, and the different gods and their powers.
The Inciting Incident: The theft of the lightning bolt is the catalyst that sets Percy on his journey. He's forced to leave his normal life and face the consequences of his demigod heritage.
The Stakes: The stakes are high. If Percy fails, a war between the gods could erupt, causing widespread destruction.
The exposition in *The Lightning Thief* sets the stage for the rest of the series, establishing the world, characters, and central conflict. It lays the groundwork for the thrilling adventures and personal growth that Percy experiences as he navigates the dangerous world of the demigods.