Hoot | Literary Criticism & Book Review

Hoot Critical Overview

Carl Hiaasen is best known for the quirky crime novels he writes for an adult audience; Hoot is the author's first novel written for younger readers. If reviews are any indication, Hiaasen's foray into the world of juvenile fiction has been a success.

In a review for Booklist, Bill Ott called the book a "thoroughly engaging tale." Ott also remarked, "the story is full of offbeat humor, buffoonish yet charming supporting characters, and genuinely touching scenes of children enjoying the wildness of nature." Paula Rohrlick, in a review for Kliatt, wrote, "Hiaasen's trademark over-the-top humor and satire, along with his concern for safeguarding Florida's wildlife, come through clearly and will entertain readers." Several other critics also compared Hoot to Hiaasen's previous works. In a review for Horn Book Magazine, Betty Carter called the book "quintessential Hiaasen … with a G rating." Daniel Radosh echoed these sentiments in a review...
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