For those who read the first Artemis Fowl and, like myself, were entertained but overall unimpressed, this sequel is definitely worth checking out. The original I admit was a good introduction into the world of the series, but as a stand alone, it frankly stunk worse than Mulch Diggums's gas. This book is a much better representative of the series as a whole.

Compared to the first Artemis Fowl, this book hits the mark in where the other lacked. In the first you dealt with basically one conflict and a "main" character who was easily overshadowed and underdeveloped in terms of being relatable. In Arctic Incident, there was more conflict (one simultaneously taking place in the Lower Elements as well as one above ground) and as a reader you can sympathize and understand Artemis more as a character. Originally a villainous figure, you see a side of him in Arctic Incident that was only roughly addressed in the conclusion of the first. He becomes more sympathetic, apologetic, and, in turn, more human. Yes, it was fun in the first to see the protagonist as a villain, but the series doesn't end here and I'm sure there to more to come of that in the later volumes. After all, Fowl is known for his criminal behavior, and him becoming a good guy just wouldn't be congruent.

As I said in my review of the original, Artemis Fowl is one of those series that is really great for those in between children's books and young adult. The plot doesn't get too confusing, the characters are funny, and there are of course the fantasy elements. Yet, this series isn't horrible for an entertaining adult read because the humor mixes high-brow and slap-stick. Also, even though the main character is thirteen years old, all the other characters are seasoned adults, for those that argue "Oh, I don't want to waste my time with the juvenile adventures of a young lad."

I hope the first book doesn't shrug too many people off this series, because it definitely does get better as it goes along. I would suggest this book, and the series, to kids between the ages of 10-15 and any adult who wouldn't mind a trip into the world of action fairies and farting dwarves.