Simplify the following text for a Grade 9 native English-speaking person.
Original: Publishers Weekly praised Riordan by saying , `` One of Riordan 's strengths is the wry interplay between the real and the surreal '' , and adding that `` The wit , rousing swordplay and breakneck pace will once again keep kids hooked . ''
Simplified: Publishers Weekly praised Riordan saying , `` One of Riordan 's strengths is the wry interplay between the real and the surreal . '' and adding that `` The wit , rousing swordplay and breakneck pace will once again keep kids hooked . ''