Artemis Fowl: The Last Guardian

Gr 5–8—Nathaniel Parker once again brings the adventures of teenage genius Artemis Fowl to vivid life in Eoin Colfer's final installment (Hyperion, 2012) of the series. Since little back story is provided, listeners familiar with the series will find it easier to follow the story as Artemis faces off with his rival, Opal, an evil pixie who is determined to bring the human and fairy worlds to an explosive end. Moving somewhat seamlessly between perspectives of the different characters, Parker gives distinct personalities and accents to each character, offers spot-on dramatic and comic timing for every scene, and provides heart-throbbing pacing during the most action-packed sequences. A definite purchase for libraries where the series is already part of their collection. The only disappointment fans will experience is that this is the last Artemis adventure…or is it?—Stephanie A. Squicciarini, Fairport Public Library, NY