In his sixth adventure, boy genius Artemis is faced with his toughest challenge yet: traveling back in time to save an endangered species from his younger self. This entry in the popular series will grab and keep readers' attention, as magical devices, duplicate characters, and time paradoxes combine to create complex situations and adventures.

Gr 4-8 Fourteen-year-old genius and mastermind Artemis Fowl realizes that he has a problem. His mother is nearing death and the only thing that can save her is the brain fluid from a species of lemur that he forced into extinction eight years earlier. He decides that he must travel back in time to right this terrible wrong but his younger self is present in the past and proceeds to challenge the older Artemis's every move. At the older Artemis's side is elf Captain Holly Short of the Lower Elements Police Reconnaissance (LEPrecon) and Mulch Diggums, a dwarf known for his potent flatulence and ground-munching abilities. The trio struggle to circumvent destiny but find the past fraught with deception. The story flows with quick-witted humor and action-packed scenes, and Colfer's love of science shines through in the story's inventions and clever use of engineering. The dueling technology and a game match between clashing masterminds make for an exciting, modern-day fairy tale. There is no integration of previous story lines; while this does not take away from the resolution, it does leave readers questioning some backstory. The author once again offers an exhilarating ride through the fantastical world of Artemis Fowl. Robyn Gioia, Bolles School, Ponte Vedra, FL

This latest installment in the Artemis Fowl series finds Artemis returned to Fowl Manor following a three-year stint fighting demons in Limbo. With twin brothers born in his absence, Artemis's life takes an uncharacteristic domestic turn until his mother contracts a mysterious illness. Captain Holly Short, summoned by a panicked Artemis, confirms that the disease is of fairy origin. The only cure is made from brain fluid harvested from the rare silky sifaka lemur. Unfortunately the animal is now extinct, thanks to the money-hungry deeds of a younger Artemis. With the help of Holly and a demon warlock known simply as No. 1, Artemis must go back in time to rescue the lemur. Once there, he encounters the evil Opal Koboi, who has her own nefarious plans for the lemur. A high stakes race ensues, as Artemis must outwit Opal and a younger version of himself. Colfer delivers another great story filled with action, drama, and clever plot twists that will please new readers as well as series fans. What sets this series apart, however, is its ability to rise above predictability. The characters change and grow more complex with each book. Here Artemis must literally face himself and the catastrophic results of his actions. Readers will enjoy watching him squirm and grow from the experience. This combination of ingenious plot and authentic characters who evolve over time is a pleasure to read and leaves readers begging for more.-Amy Fiske.