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	December 2002
		Artemis Fowl: The Arctic Incident by by Eoin Colfer, Puffin Books, UK 2002 RRP $19.95 reviewed by Imogen Wegman
			This book is the sequel to Eoin Colfer's Artemis Fowl, and has references to this. Although you don't need to read the first book to understand the second, it might make more sense if you did. The third book of this trilogy has not yet been published. The Arctic Incident is about the LEPRecon fairy, Captain Holly Short and the 13 year old human Artemis Fowl and the adventures they have when Artemis' presumed dead father is found alive. They also have to discover who has been supplying an illegal human power source to the Goblins, Artemis being blamed for this, based on his previous deeds. The book has definite 'goodies' and 'baddies' Only Artemis Fowl is slightly elusive about his intentions. This book is very funny at the same time as teaching lessons about giving people a second chance, and the damage humans do to the planet. Although it is not religious in any sense, it has input from Irish folklore and legendary mystical characters. Artemis Fowl is always convinced that his plan is right, always seems to be in anything only for the money, or at least claims that (despite some actions in The Arctic Incident that were not strictly necessary for him to do.) He always has a witty or sarcastic comment to make and is described as an 'anti-hero' by his creator Eoin Colfer. Artemis is likeable despite his self-indulgence. Inventive Captain Holly Short is the opposite of Artemis, is not always self-assured of her plans and is willing to do things because they need to be done, not just for the reward. She doesn't always have something to say and puts up with sexism and racism. Like her fellows Holly is 'streetwise', likeable and inventive, with a plan for most situations. Most enjoyable, although not quite as good as the first, this book is suitable for anyone to read - the grandparent will enjoy reading it to a grandchild as much as the child will enjoy listening. I'd highly recommend it for a light