> Skip to content

Article  •  30 July 2019

 

Real readers review: Artemis Fowl

Artemis Fowl is the first in Eoin Colfer’s epic eight-book fantasy adventure series, which was released in 2001.

With the Disney film adaptation due next year, now’s the perfect time to introduce Artemis to your bookshelf (if you haven’t already!).

 

Don’t just take our word for it, though; we sent copies of Artemis Fowl to some of our Puffin Ambassadors (a very discerning pool of book reviewers aged 9–11), and here’s what they had to say:

 

 

‘I love this book because, when you start reading it, it feels like you are one of the main characters trying to escape Artemis’s clutches before it’s too late. There’s plenty of mystery, fantasy and fiction to make an incredible criminal story. This book is especially good for those aged 10–12, boys or girls. I would also recommend this book for people who like a good mystery or adventure.’

Maja, age 10, Auckland

 

‘I really like this book because of its suspense. You can think something will happen, and it will turn out to be something different! . . . I would recommend this book to children aged 10–12 who like suspicion, adventure and the odd joke or two. A handy tip when reading is to keep a dictionary close by for some tricky words, because there are a few; this is a great way to increase your vocabulary. Overall, this book is very good. It was enjoyable to read and I really liked it!’

Arnie, age 10, Auckland

 

‘I think a range of confident readers will enjoy this book and will find it very interesting from start to finish. Also readers who enjoy fantasy, fairies and mythical creatures. I would recommend it to people aged 10–14, but probably anyone above the age of 10 could love this fantasy thriller. I think Eoin Colfer is a fantastic writer with wonderful ideas for older children, and I will definitely be reading more of his series.’

Lauree, age 11, Porirua

 

‘. . . It made me laugh out loud as I read it. The book uses extraordinary description. The characters are realistic and you’re able to relate them. I was filled with emotions like “OMG!’’ and “What’s going to happen next?’’.  At the end of the book, I wanted to read the next book in the series to find out what Artemis was going to do next! I would read the book again and again. It is well written, thought-provoking, funny and interesting . . . I’d recommend it to people who find mythical creatures interesting. Every person has a piece of a character from this book inside them.’

            —Maren, age 10, Auckland

 

‘I think Artemis Fowl is a very good book! . . . It gets straight into laugh-filled action! . . . I think it would be a really good book for any 9–12-year-old who likes magic or science or who wants to see both combined in a laughable way.’

Shea, age 10, Wellington

 

Feature Title

Artemis Fowl
The first novel in the extraordinary Artemis Fowl series, now with a brand-new cover look!
Read more

More features

See all
Article
How well do you know Artemis?

Artemis Fowl is a 12-year-old criminal mastermind. With this hit series coming to Disney+ there’s never been a better time to dive into his nefarious world. Read the book, watch the movie then see how you stack up with this masterful quiz.

Article
The best graphic novels for reluctant readers

Graphic novels are the perfect way to get disinterested readers to pick up a book.

Article
NZ Booklovers Awards Shortlist 2026

See the Penguin Random House NZ books shortlisted for the 2026 NZ Booklovers Awards

Article
The best Easter activities with Bluey!

Easter fun with Bluey! Whether you're a fan of quizzes, crafts, colouring, or biscuit decorating, we've rounded up the best Easter activities so you and your little ones can celebrate Easter with their favourite, Bluey!

Article
The best hockey romance books!

So, you’ve watched a particular hockey romance series that left you wanting more? You’ve come to the right place. After all, every great series is based on an even better book.

Article
You'll Always Be My Baby

The perfect bedtime picture book gift for parents and grandparents

Article
Editor's Rave Review: Stepping Up

Cath, our Penguin NZ Children's Publisher on what makes STEPPING UP by David Hill a very special book

Article
Are We There Yet?

Fun road trip games and books to keep little kids happy!

Article
Books to build empathy in kids

Children's books to encourage understanding, kindness and inclusion.

Article
How to go analog

Join the analogue movement! Check out four key tips for the best screen free hobbies, from colouring in to starting a book club.

Article
Elisabeth Easther presents her debut novel, Seed

Come and join as Elisabeth Easther launches Seed, her always hilarious and sometimes heartbreaking new novel

Article
QUIZ: Which character are you from Beth Is Dead?

Take this quiz to find out whether you're a Beth, Amy, Jo or Meg!

Looking for more articles?

See all articles