Artemis Fowl (Artemis Fowl #1)

By Eoin Colfer

Before I get into this, let me say this: I am aware this is a YA book. I often read (and quite enjoy) YA. So my dislike for this book is not based on its target age. My dislike is based on the fact that it is so contrived and over-explained. Just because a person is young (for example, age 12, like the title character) does not mean they’re too stupid to grasp basic plot elements. If you foreshadow something once, that’s enough; you do not need to foreshadow it 5 times just because it’s a YA audience. The characters are mostly flat stereotypes – the bulky bodyguard, the girl (fairy, in this case) in a male-dominated profession, the kid ignored/abandoned by his parents. Artemis, who could and should be the most interesting character, is given surprisingly little page time, relatively. We learn almost nothing about his character other than he’s smart. The dialogue is atrocious – it sounds like it’s been copy & pasted from bad B-movies. Which may have been the intent, but it doesn’t work. The plot is predictable, which can happen and still result in an enjoyable read, but this one was so foreshadowed to death at every turn it was annoying. The author was also a bit preachy on the perils of alcohol, and saving the environment – both viewpoints I agree with, but I resent being badgered about it. Saving graces: a few funny moments/lines, and it was a really quick read, so I didn’t waste too much time on it.

I give it 2/5 stars.