Step into the soaring world of the Pegasus series, where a winged stallion and a courageous young girl ignite an epic adventure that blends Roman mythology with modern thrills! Written by Kate O’Hearn, this middle-grade fantasy saga whisks readers from the stormy rooftops of New York City to the divine heights of Olympus, delivering heart-pounding action and heartfelt themes of friendship, bravery, and destiny.
Perfect for fans of Percy Jackson, Pegasus captivates with its unique spin on mythological tales, vibrant characters, and a story that feels both timeless and fresh. Whether you’re a young reader or young at heart, this series promises a ride as exhilarating as flying on Pegasus himself!
How Pegasus Took Flight
Kate O’Hearn, a New York native with a passion for mythology and high adventure, crafted the Pegasus series to address a gap she noticed in children’s literature: a lack of strong female leads in action-packed stories. Inspired by her love for Roman and Greek myths, O’Hearn introduced Emily, a 13-year-old girl whose life changes when Pegasus crashes onto her Manhattan apartment roof. Published by Hachette Children’s Group and Aladdin Books, the series launched in 2011 with The Flame of Olympus, sparking a six-book journey that blends classic fantasy with contemporary settings.
O’Hearn’s tomboy upbringing and vivid imagination shine through, creating a world where gods, monsters, and mortals collide. Her goal was to craft a heroine as brave and adventurous as any male protagonist, making Emily a relatable and inspiring figure for readers worldwide.
The Heart of Pegasus
The Pegasus series follows Emily Jacobs, who discovers her destiny as the Flame of Olympus, a powerful force tasked with saving the Olympian gods. In The Flame of Olympus (2011), Pegasus’s arrival sets off a battle against the Nirads, monstrous stone warriors, and the sinister CRU, a government agency hunting Olympians. Pegasus and the Fight for Olympus (2011) sees Emily embracing her powers while yearning to free her father from the CRU’s clutches. Pegasus and the New Olympians (2012) introduces a cloning conspiracy, pitting Emily and Pegasus against human and divine foes. Pegasus and the Origins of Olympus (2012) takes readers back to the Titan-Olympian war, weaving time-travel and mythology into a thrilling quest.
The series’ strength lies in its blend of Roman mythology—featuring gods like Jupiter and Diana—and modern settings like New York and Hawaii. Themes of loyalty, courage, and self-discovery resonate deeply, while O’Hearn’s fast-paced prose and humor (like Pegasus’s love for ice cream!) keep readers hooked. The dynamic between Emily, Pegasus, and friends like Joel and Paelen creates a found-family vibe that grounds the fantastical elements.
Each book builds on the last, escalating stakes and deepening character arcs. O’Hearn’s world-building, rich with mythological details and modern twists, makes Olympus feel alive and accessible, encouraging readers to explore ancient myths further.
Why Pegasus Resonates
The Pegasus series has carved a niche in middle-grade fantasy, earning praise from readers and authors like Rick Riordan, who called it a “winning mix of modern adventure and classic fantasy.” Its appeal lies in its empowering female protagonist and its ability to make mythology exciting for young readers. Fans on platforms like Goodreads and Reddit rave about its action, emotional depth, and the way it sparks a love for Roman myths, often comparing it favorably to Percy Jackson.
Despite its smaller fandom, Pegasus’s legacy endures through its passionate readers and O’Hearn’s commitment to strong heroines. The series’ blend of heart, humor, and heroism continues to inspire, proving that even a lesser-known saga can leave a lasting mark.
- Publication Years: 2011–2016
- Number of Books: 6
- Target Audience: Ages 8–14
- Setting: New York, Olympus, and beyond
Ready to soar with Emily and Pegasus? Grab The Flame of Olympus and dive into a mythological adventure that’s as thrilling as a flight through the clouds!