* "His face was as white as a sheet." (This is used to describe Luke's reaction to Percy's accusation about the stolen lightning bolt. It emphasizes Luke's fear and guilt.)
* "I felt like I was drowning in a thick, sticky molasses." (This describes Percy's feelings of confusion and helplessness when he first learns about his demigod status. The simile highlights the overwhelming nature of his situation.)
* "The air around us was thick with the smell of salt and fear, like the air just before a storm." (This sets a dramatic tone and foreshadows the dangerous and unpredictable nature of the events to come.)
* "Annabeth's eyes were as sharp as a hawk's, and her gaze as steady as a lighthouse beam." (This depicts Annabeth's intelligence and determination, highlighting her ability to see through deception and remain focused on the task at hand.)
* "The Minotaur's roar echoed through the tunnels, like a monstrous beast tearing apart the earth." (This creates a sense of danger and dread as it portrays the creature's immense power and the threatening nature of the encounter.)
These are just a few examples, and the book is full of many more similes that make the characters, setting, and events truly come alive.