Community Reviews

Rating(4.1 / 5.0, 100 votes)
5 stars
39(39%)
4 stars
32(32%)
3 stars
29(29%)
2 stars
0(0%)
1 stars
0(0%)
100 reviews
July 15,2025
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I listened to this on a particularly slow day substituting at the library. The reader has a nice voice, although he has a tendency to rush a bit. Maybe it comes with the genre, trying to sound excited?

I don't know.

I didn't finish it, but the plot was entertaining. This book tows the line between J and YA fiction tropes. The main character's dad isn't completely absent but, as a hot-headed environmental activist, often gets his family into trouble, leaving the kids to clean it up. However, unlike many books that fall into this trap, it felt realistic.

I can't see why these books were as popular as they were ten years ago. Maybe it was because of the unique blend of adventure and family dynamics. Or perhaps it was the relatable characters and their struggles.

But I haven't read "Hoot" yet, so maybe that's where the true magic lies. I'm curious to see if it will live up to the hype and capture my imagination like this one did, even if only for a short while.
July 15,2025
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In the book "Flush" by Carl Hiassen, the dad named Paine sunk a boat that releases poop into the ocean.

Now that he is in jail, he desires his son and daughter, Noah and Abbey, to catch Dusty.

However, things become more complicated when the dad escapes from jail.

Moreover, one of Noah's much older friend named Lice Peeking is missing.

Noah, Abbey, and Shelly must figure out a way to prove that the Casino boat did indeed dump poop all over the ocean.

This task is not going to be easy as they face various challenges and obstacles along the way.

They need to use their wits and courage to solve the mystery and bring justice to the situation.

The story is full of excitement and adventure as the characters race against time to find the truth.

Readers will be on the edge of their seats as they follow the thrilling journey of Noah, Abbey, and Shelly.

Will they be able to succeed in their mission and make things right? Only time will tell.
July 15,2025
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This was read to me in sixth grade.

At that time, I listened to it, but I have to admit that it was just okay. I wasn't interested in it at all.

The only reason I gave it two stars was because in my rating system, two stars mean "It was okay". However, for me, two stars usually imply that I didn't like it very much.

But this time, it's an exception. Maybe there was something about it that I didn't fully understand or appreciate back then.

Looking back now, I wonder if I would have a different opinion if I read it again.

It makes me think that our tastes and perspectives can change over time, and what we didn't like before might become something we enjoy in the future.

Who knows? Maybe I'll give this a second chance and discover something new and interesting about it.
July 15,2025
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Noah Underwood's father has an intense passion for the environment. This passion leads him to take a drastic action when he sinks the local casino boat, the Coral Queen. He believes that its owner is illegally dumping the boat's sewage tanks into the local waters.

Alongside his younger sister, Noah sets out on a mission. He tries to prove that his father is right and put an end to the illegal dumping.

The book earns a 4.5 stars rating, which is rounded up. It's true that some elements in the story, like VCR tapes, seem a bit dated. However, as a whole, the book still holds up well. It offers a fun and quick read, filled with Hiassen's typical humor. Moreover, it contains a couple of surprises that keep the readers engaged until the very end.

Overall, it's a book that combines an interesting plot with a touch of environmental awareness and humor, making it an enjoyable read for many.
July 15,2025
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Fun and Informative Read

This is an article that offers a truly enjoyable and enlightening experience. It presents a captivating story that hooks the reader from the very beginning. The characters within the story are well-developed and bring the narrative to life. Each character has their own unique traits and personalities, which makes them relatable and engaging. The story unfolds in a way that keeps the reader on the edge of their seat, eager to discover what will happen next. It is filled with interesting twists and turns that add depth and excitement. Moreover, the article is not only entertaining but also informative. It provides valuable insights and knowledge on various topics, making it a great read for those who are looking to learn something new while being entertained. Overall, this is a must-read article that combines fun and information in a seamless and engaging way.
July 15,2025
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After reading "Hoot", I was completely captivated and couldn't help but explore all of Carl Hiassen's young adult fiction. I devoured this book within two nights. It was truly amazing! It's another wonderful tale about environmental activism by young people and how their actions can have a profound impact on the world around them. I'm eager to share this book with my son before he loses that sense of limitless possibility, that "I can do ANYTHING!" feeling which is unique to the young and unscarred.


The story begins with Noah visiting his father in jail. His father is incarcerated because he sank a casino boat. Noah discovers that the owner of the boat was illegally dumping untreated sewage into the ocean instead of properly disposing of it. This irresponsible act was not only destroying the nesting areas of endangered turtles but also fouling the beaches for weeks at a time. The main character, Noah, and his sister, Abbey, have unwavering faith in their father. When it becomes evident that their father's crusade is putting a strain on his marriage to their mother, the kids decide to take matters into their own hands and embark on a crusade of their own. Their goal is to find conclusive proof that their father is right about the illegal dumping. The plot thickens with the addition of some corrupt local officials and a few other complications, resulting in a story that is filled with intrigue from start to finish. The kids manage to find an unexpected ally, and with her assistance, they come up with a clever plan to prove beyond a doubt that the boat is the source of the sewage.


I still haven't read "Scat", which is the latest book by Hiassen for kids. However, his storytelling is so brilliant and engaging that I couldn't wait to explore more of his work. Yesterday, I headed to Barnes and Noble to pick up some of his fiction for adults.

July 15,2025
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Reading this book for the first time as an adult, I find myself having a plethora of thoughts. Firstly, it becomes evident that the author is significantly more adept at writing for children than for adults. I recall giving up on a particular book last year due to its abysmal quality. In contrast, this one is a gem. It is not only educational, providing valuable knowledge in a captivating manner, but also adventurous, taking the readers on an exciting journey. Additionally, it is highly entertaining, ensuring that kids will be thoroughly engrossed. Parents and educators, too, can truly appreciate its worth. In fact, this book has the potential to be taught in science class, as it presents scientific concepts in an accessible and engaging way.


However, there are a few aspects that I couldn't help but notice. Some of the topics and the language used seem to be targeted at a slightly higher age group than the overall story appears to be aimed at. I was also rather surprised to discover that this book was written in 2005, yet it still seems a bit dated with references to video cameras, VH1, and a few others that might not be fully understood by today's younger generation. Moreover, the author's somewhat negative remarks about the '80's didn't sit well with me. Nevertheless, despite these minor flaws, this book has a great deal of value. I look forward to reading "Hoot" and also to encouraging Elliott to explore and enjoy Hiaasen's books.

July 15,2025
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Just stop oil.

These words carry a powerful message, as if they were the battle cry of Carl Hiaasen protagonists.

In Hiaasen's fictional worlds, his characters often take on causes that are larger than life, fighting against the forces that are harming the environment and society.

Just like those protagonists, the call to stop oil represents a struggle for a better future.

It is a plea to recognize the negative impacts of our dependence on oil and to take action to reduce it.

Whether it's through promoting renewable energy sources, improving energy efficiency, or changing our consumption patterns, there are many ways we can contribute to this cause.

By joining forces and working together, we can make a difference and create a world that is more sustainable and environmentally friendly.

So let's channel our inner Carl Hiaasen protagonists and take a stand to stop oil.

July 15,2025
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This is a very weak book.

I had the misfortune of reading it before, and to my great disappointment, it was far worse than I had remembered.

The story lacked depth and coherence, making it difficult to follow and engage with.

The characters were one-dimensional and failed to elicit any emotional connection from me.

The writing style was平淡无奇 and did not add any value to the overall experience.

Overall, I would not recommend this book to anyone looking for a good read.

It is a waste of time and does not live up to any expectations one might have had.

I hope that the author will take the time to improve their writing skills and produce something more worthwhile in the future.
July 15,2025
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Good middle grade book!

It offers a wonderful blend of adventure and mystery that will surely captivate young readers.

The story unfolds in a way that keeps kids on the edge of their seats, as they follow the characters on their thrilling journey.

What makes this book truly special is that it shows kids solving problems that adults haven't been able to.

It gives them a sense of empowerment and encourages them to think outside the box.

The characters are well-developed and relatable, making it easy for kids to put themselves in their shoes.

The author has done a great job of creating a vivid and engaging world that kids will love to explore.

Overall, this is a must-read middle grade book that combines adventure, mystery, and the power of kids' minds in a truly captivating way.
July 15,2025
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Ahoy there me mateys!

A while back, I was introduced to this author due to a cat on the cover of a scat. I was so captivated by that book that I made up me mind to listen to all of Hiaasen’s other juvenile books. Here be a review of the other four books: hoot, flush, chomp, and squirm.

These books share some common themes. All of them center around a young boy residing in Florida, who endures bullying, has a deep love for animals, possesses a quirky sense of humor, makes new friends, and ultimately saves the day. Weird names seem to be a recurring trend as well. While the bad guys are rather one-dimensional, the good guys are quirky and entertaining. Additionally, there are often loving, albeit odd, parents involved, which is a nice touch.

Hoot: Apparently, this was a nominee for the Newbery medal. I also recall watching some of the movie with me nephews at some point. In this story, Roy Eberhardt relocates to Florida and becomes the new target of the school bully, Dana Matherson. It is during an incident when he is smashed into the school bus window that Roy first catches sight of “the running boy,” who appears to be running away from the school bus without shoes. Roy is drawn into a mystery to uncover the identity of the boy and his purpose. The running boy, known as “Mullet Fingers,” is on a mission to oppose a pancake house and safeguard the owls. I adored Roy and the girl Beatrice. I also loved the pancake house actress.

Flush: In this one, a boy named Noah is determined to assist his dad in halting the local casino boat from discharging sewage into the water. His sister Abbey joins in on the adventure. Me favorite character was Shelley. There are subplots regarding the kids’ attempts to salvage their parents’ marriage. Moreover, this is one of those books where the dad actually acknowledges his faults and takes steps to improve. I was particularly fond of the family dynamics in this story.

Chomp: This was me other favorite. The book follows a boy named Wahoo (the worst name ever) as he works with his dad as an animal wrangler for a wildlife reality TV show. His friend Tuna (the second worst name ever) accompanies him on location. This was a humorous take on reality television that had me in stitches. The reality star, Derek Badger, is truly something else. It is exaggerated and absurd, and I loved every bit of it.

Squirm: This book was slightly different as part of it takes place in Montana, and there is an absent dad who definitely doesn’t deserve any awards for being the best parent. In this book, Billy is resolute in meeting his father and obtaining answers to his questions. Similar to hoot, snakes are a major theme. For me, this plot was the strangest. There is supposed to be a mystery regarding exactly what Billy’s father does for a living. The answer didn’t hold much interest for me, and the dad seemed to be a bit of an idiot in general. However, I did like Billy.

I was extremely glad to have read these books. They are rather lighthearted and silly, yet I can understand their appeal to younger readers. They certainly appealed to this older one as well. Me personal preference for the reading order is scat, chomp, flush, hoot, and then squirm. Scat and chomp, in particular, had some hilarious moments that made me laugh out loud. I highly recommend them. Arrr!

Check out me other reviews at https://thecaptainsquartersblog.wordp...
July 15,2025
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I have a great passion for reading the stories penned by Carl Hiaasen. Yesterday, as I indulged in the luxury of weeding and meticulously tending to my backyard plantings and cleaning up after our party, I had the pleasure of listening to this audiobook.

It was a concise yet engaging tale that adhered closely to the style of story I have grown accustomed to from Mr. Hiaasen. It was a classic good versus evil narrative, with the added charm of a mission to save the turtles. It's the kind of feel-good story that will surely make those of us who are nature enthusiasts and tree-huggers break into cheers.

Overall, this is yet another excellent story from this talented author. It has the ability to captivate both children and adults alike, transporting them into a world filled with adventure, moral lessons, and a healthy dose of humor. Carl Hiaasen once again proves his prowess as a storyteller, leaving his readers (or listeners in this case) eagerly anticipating his next literary offering.
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