I bought this book because I had heard that it was "better than Harry Potter". I decided that I had to read it because it's been a while since I've read a good book and I loved the Harry Potter series. A few chapters into the book, I realized that there was not a lot in common with my beloved Harry Potter, but that this book definitely had promise.
The day the book came in the mail, I was so busy that I didn't hardly have time to read the inside cover. I was intrigued as to how a child prodigy involved in the criminal world would get involved with fairies, but I didn't have time to explore further. Finally, the next morning, I found time to sneak in the first chapter (which by the way is available on the book's website). I had to make myself put the book down and finish my work for the day. I was hooked!
In the first chapter, we meet our main character, Artemis Fowl and his sidekick, Butler. We learn about the Butler's servant-like relationship with the Fowl family for many generations. The reader is taken through the back alleys of Ho Chi Minh City were Artemis finally swindles a drunk fairy out of her "Book". Artemis uses his many technological gadgets and his vast knowledge to translate the Fariy Book and learn the secrets of these mystical beings (and most importantly how to get their gold).
As part of his plan, Artemis kidnaps Captain Holly Short a fairy member of the LEPrecon unit (kind of like the FBI or CIA for fairies). A great adventure follows as Holly's peers attempt to rescue her from the clutches of this kidnapper. I'll leave you to discover the rest of the story for yourself.
The book is probably not going to be listed among many of the greatest works of literature, but it is however a fun read. It held my attention so much that I stayed up until the early morning hours to finish it. The story is at times violent, but not so much that I personally would keep older children from reading the book.
I was perhaps most impressed with the character development in this story. They were described in depth, but in the magic of other great authors Eion Colfer made me almost see their innermost feelings. Take for example our main character, Artemis Fowl. He is described as a genious dedicated to the criminal lifestyle even though he is only twelve. However, later in the story we see a boy who is deeply wounded by the disappearance of his father and the inattention of his mother. Even though the LEP (Lower Elements Police) assures that Artemis is a dangerous criminal, you can't help but wonder if another softer-side of Artemis will come out in later episodes.
Overall: I would suggest this book to anyone who likes a good fantasy story (with a little technology thrown in). It may not be the next great work of literature, but it's definitely worth a few hours of reading time. I really enjoyed this book and can't wait for a sequel!
Muze: Copyright 1995 - 2008 Muze Inc. For personal non-commercial use only. All rights reserved.
Epinions.com periodically updates pricing and product information from third-party sources, so some information may be slightly out-of-date. You should confirm all information before relying on it.
- Add to My Yahoo!: 
- Add to Google Homepage: 
© 1999-2008 Shopping.com, Inc.