Book Review: Artemis Fowl by Eoin Colfer (Why KS3 Students Shouldn’t Miss This Clever, Action-Packed Adventure)

If you love action, clever plots, fantasy creatures and a character who’s as devious as he is brilliant, Artemis Fowl is a must-read. It’s packed with humour, twists, high-tech gadgets and magic: a perfect mix for students in Years 7, 8 and 9.

Even better, it’s the start of a brilliant series, so once you finish book one, there’s a whole collection waiting for you!

✅ What’s It About?

Artemis Fowl is no ordinary 12-year-old. He’s a criminal mastermind: clever, ruthless and always one step ahead. When Artemis discovers the secret world of fairies, he decides to kidnap one and demand a ransom in fairy gold.

But what he doesn’t realise is that these aren’t your typical fluttery fairies. They have serious tech, powerful magic and a no-nonsense commander who’s ready to fight back. What follows is a fast-paced battle of wits between Artemis and the fairy world.

✅ Why KS3 Students Will Love It

• Artemis is an epic anti-hero: He’s clever, slightly wicked and impossible not to root for.

• It’s packed with action: Explosions, escapes, secret codes and high-tech weapons — what’s not to love?

• It’s laugh-out-loud funny: Eoin Colfer’s writing is sharp, witty and full of brilliant one-liners.

• The fantasy world is unique: Fairies, trolls and dwarves… but not the sparkly, harmless kind.

✅ Favourite Quote

“Trust me. I’m a genius.”

A perfect summary of Artemis’s confidence and cunning!

✅ Would I Recommend It?

Definitely! It’s a clever, funny, brilliantly imaginative book with enough twists and excitement to keep even the most reluctant readers hooked. If you love Percy Jackson, Alex Rider or Skulduggery Pleasant, you’ll love Artemis Fowl.

Final Thoughts

If you’re in Years 7, 8 or 9 and want a clever, action-packed read with a character you’ll love to hate (and secretly admire), Artemis Fowl is a brilliant pick.

And if you’d like help boosting your reading comprehension, writing book reviews or developing creative writing skills of your own, I have a limited number of tutoring slots available both online and in-person across Stockport, South Manchester and surrounding areas. Contact me today for a private tutoring quote: whether it’s for reading skills, vocabulary building or writing confidence.

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