The Arctic Incident (Artemis Fowl, Book 2)
By: Eoin Colfer
Artemis Fowl is at boarding school in Iceland when he receives an urgent video email from Russia. It's a plea from his father, who has been kidnapped by the Russian mafia. As Artemis rushes to his rescue, he is stopped by Captain Holly Short. This time, instead of battling the fairies, he's going to have to join forces with them if he wants to save one of the few people he loves.
AI Overview
Comprehensive Overview of "The Arctic Incident (Artemis Fowl, Book 2)" by Eoin Colfer
### Plot Summary
"The Arctic Incident" is the second book in the Artemis Fowl series by Eoin Colfer. The story follows 13-year-old Artemis Fowl II, a brilliant and cunning teenager, as he navigates a complex web of secrets and treachery in a world where fairies, trolls, and other magical creatures exist.
Key Plot Points:
- Initial Setup: The book begins with Artemis receiving a video message from a mysterious source claiming to have evidence of his father's existence. This message demands that Artemis help the fairy civilization in exchange for his father's freedom.
- Artemis's Plan: Artemis reaches out to Captain Holly Short of the Lower Elements Police (LEP), who reluctantly agrees to assist him. They plan to rendezvous in Murmansk, Russia, to uncover the truth about Artemis's father's disappearance.
- Arctic Circle Adventure: In Murmansk, Artemis and Holly travel to the Arctic Circle, where they discover a secret fairy base disguised as an oil rig. Commander Root, initially hostile, eventually agrees to their alliance. Together, they formulate a plan to infiltrate the Russian mafia and uncover their connection to Artemis's father's disappearance.
- Goblin Rebellion and Human Technology: The story also involves a goblin rebellion and the supply of human technology to the goblins. Artemis is captured by the LEP, who suspect him of supplying the goblins with dangerous human technology (batteries). He convinces them of his innocence and agrees to help them if they assist him in freeing his father.
### Key Themes
- Family and Loyalty: The book explores themes of family loyalty and the lengths to which one will go to protect and rescue loved ones.
- Ethical Dilemmas: Artemis often finds himself in situations where he must make difficult choices, balancing his own interests with the greater good.
- Magical Realism: The series introduces a fantastical world where magical creatures coexist with humans, adding a layer of complexity to the narrative.
- Adversity and Teamwork: The story highlights the importance of teamwork and collaboration in overcoming seemingly insurmountable challenges.
### Critical Reception
"The Arctic Incident" has received positive reviews for its engaging storyline, well-developed characters, and vivid world-building.
- Goodreads Review: The book has an average rating of 4.12 out of 5 stars on Goodreads, with many reviewers praising its blend of action, adventure, and humor.
- BookBrief Summary: The summary on BookBrief praises the book for its "vivid and fantastical" world, noting that Colfer's creation is as engaging as any other fantasy setting in recent memory.
- The Terror of Knowing Review: The review on The Terror of Knowing highlights the book's ability to balance hope and despair, making it a compelling read for both children and adults.
Author Background
Eoin Colfer, the author of the Artemis Fowl series, was born in Wexford, Ireland, in 1965. He began his career as a primary school teacher but retired to focus on writing full-time after the success of the Artemis Fowl novels. Colfer has lived and worked in various parts of the world, including Saudi Arabia, Tunisia, and Italy.
In summary, "The Arctic Incident" is a thrilling adventure that delves into the complexities of family, loyalty, and teamwork in a world filled with magical creatures. The book's engaging plot, well-developed characters, and vivid world-building have made it a beloved installment in the Artemis Fowl series.