Why I Think Boys May Enjoy This
If ever there was a book series that could be used to introduce the concept of “anti-hero” to a middle grade audience, it is Artemis Fowl (or, you know, my novella Anchihiiroo – Origin of an Antihero, but I digress). Artemis Fowl II, in the debut book of this series, is the very definition of someone willing to do anything it takes (even a little kidnapping and ransom-demanding) for what is ultimately a good cause (trying to save his mother). One of my favorite things about this series is that Artemis, being a genius, has a very large vocabulary. The diction in this book is a lot more advanced and complex than many other middle grade books and I personally used it as a benchmark in my own writing for not talking down to a young audience (which I find many, many middle grade and even young adult books do). Colfer has found that great sweet spot to challenge young readers without dismissing their capabilities.
That being said, the story is a simple one that is very easy and fun to follow. The basic frame of the story follows the “heist” format. There are twists and turns and plans on top of plans. Sometimes they work and sometimes they fail. Sometimes they seem to fail but end up working (think of a fairy tale version of Ocean’s 11). Apparently Colfer himself has referred to it as “Die Hard with fairies” with which I can’t argue. Colfer has created his own sub-society of magical fairy creatures that presents the underlying mystery and magic to the series. At the same time, Artemis is a regular (well, as regular as a multi-millionaire genius pre-teen with a bit of an evil mastermind complex can be) human kid who breaks open the mysteries of this underworld.
When I first discovered this series years ago, I was excited to find a middle grade series that had a protagonist that wasn’t your bubbly “chosen one” stereotype. Artemis, due to his intelligence and resources, is way deeper and more complex than your typical middle grade hero. That alone is worth a read. Couple that with a fun and colorful underworld full of faeries, gnomes, and other supernatural beings and it’s a can’t-miss.
Content/Appropriateness
This book is more than appropriate for the youngest of readers. Any violence is cartoonish in nature, for the most part. There are no language or sexual content concerns either.
As the series goes on, there are points that get a little darker, but never does Colfer waver from the PG family friendly nature of this first book.
As an aside: there is also a wonderful graphic novel adaptation of this first book that can serve to help a struggling reader or a reader who might need a little more visual aides (or just someone who really likes graphic novels!).
Rating
5/5 Giant Cartoon Mallets from Toonopolis, The Blog's Books for Boys Review
Download the free Kindle app and start reading Kindle books instantly on your smartphone, tablet, or computer - no Kindle device required.
Read instantly on your browser with Kindle for Web.
Using your mobile phone camera - scan the code below and download the Kindle app.
Something went wrong. Please try your request again later.
Popular Highlights in this book
“If I win, I’m a prodigy. If I lose, then I’m crazy. That’s the way history is written.”Highlighted by 3,592 Kindle readers- “Holmes, Moriarty, they both look the same with the flesh scorched off their skulls.”Highlighted by 2,839 Kindle readers
- And if history had taught any lessons it was that humans couldn’t get along with anyone, even themselves.Highlighted by 2,557 Kindle readers
From the Publisher
|
|
|
|
|---|---|---|---|
| Artemis Fowl Graphic Novel | The Fowl Twins | Airman | |
| Customer Reviews |
432
|
2,455
|
624
|
| Price | $9.15 | $8.99 | $14.42 |
| Also by #1 New York Times best-selling author Eoin Colfer | A graphic novel adaptation of Artemis Fowl. Readers of all ages can now follow the siege at Fowl Manor between Artemis and the fairies in action-packed, full-color panels. | With all the hallmarks that made the Artemis Fowl series so popular, this hilarious spin-off adventure stars Artemis' younger brothers, along with a nefarious nobleman, a shadowy nun, and a fairy intern, and a maverick troll. | Zorro meets The Count of Monte Cristo in this dazzling, action-packed classic from the author of the Artemis Fowl series. |
About the author
Follow authors to get new release updates, plus improved recommendations.
Reviews with images
Book fell apart within a week.
Purchased this book for my teen son and started falling apart within a week. Outside of return potal so I would suggest if purchasing open book and flip through pages to ensure it stays together. Very disappointed in the quality. Wished zero stars was an option.
