Community Reviews

Rating(4 / 5.0, 100 votes)
5 stars
29(29%)
4 stars
44(44%)
3 stars
27(27%)
2 stars
0(0%)
1 stars
0(0%)
100 reviews
July 15,2025
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I have always had a great penchant for Carl Hiaasen's writing, regardless of whether he is penning works for children or adults. His unique ability to depict the idiosyncrasies of Florida in a manner that is both entertaining and endearing is truly remarkable. For someone like me, who is currently residing far away from my beloved Florida hometown, reading his books is宛如a homecoming in the form of a literary adventure. In this particular story, the strangeness of Florida is on full display. It centers around a boy who lives in a junkyard and is valiantly fighting to safeguard the burrowing owls from the encroachment of a chain pancake restaurant's construction. The vivid descriptions and engaging plot make this story a captivating read that showcases the beauty and eccentricity of the Sunshine State.

July 15,2025
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I truly liked the theme of this book.

It is remarkable how it emphasizes and cares for the environment.

The characters in the book are also highly relatable.

One can easily understand them as they are extremely well written.

The author has done a great job in creating a world where the environmental message is not only prominent but also integrated seamlessly with the characters and their stories.

As you read through the pages, you find yourself becoming more aware of the importance of taking care of our planet.

The characters' actions and decisions serve as examples that we can all learn from.

Whether it's through small acts of conservation or larger efforts to make a difference, this book inspires us to do our part in protecting the environment.

Overall, it is a wonderful read that combines an engaging story with a powerful environmental message.
July 15,2025
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I was in need of an easy book to meet my book goal.

At first glance, it didn't seem too bad. However, upon further reading, I realized that it wasn't really that good either.

The story lacked depth and the characters were not well-developed. The writing style was rather平淡 and didn't engage me as much as I had hoped.

Although it was an easy read, it didn't offer much in terms of entertainment or intellectual stimulation.

I found myself skimming through some parts just to get to the end.

In the end, while it did fulfill my requirement of being an easy book, it didn't leave a lasting impression on me.

I'm still on the lookout for that perfect book that will both meet my goal and provide an enjoyable reading experience.
July 15,2025
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A very simple story presents one-dimensional characters, who are either all good or all bad. It doesn't carry a take-home message that I'm inclined to promote.

However, any story that, like this one, encourages minors to engage in civil disobedience, or even non-civil disobedience, or better still, "criminal" obstruction of corporate devastation for the protection of wild nature, isn't a waste of time, despite being written simplistically.

And it's important to find allies wherever possible, even if they are only temporary, in order to save a species that you love.

So, youthful ones, plot away. There isn't any time to waste. Your sweet little records can be completely expunged. I know that for a fact.

This story, although simple, holds a significant message. It shows that even in the face of corporate power and the destruction of nature, there is hope. By taking action, even if it may seem radical at times, we can make a difference.

We should not be afraid to stand up for what we believe in and to seek out allies who share our goals. Together, we can work towards a better future for ourselves and for the wild nature that we love.

So, let's not waste any more time. Let's start plotting and taking action today.
July 15,2025
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I have a deep love for owls. Their mysterious appearance and unique behaviors always fascinate me.

Also, I am extremely fond of middle grade books that have the power to inspire. These books have the ability to touch the hearts and minds of young readers, opening up new worlds and possibilities for them.

Although I have only had the opportunity to read a few of Carl Hiaasen's books, I have quickly become a fan. His writing style is engaging, and his stories are filled with humor, adventure, and important life lessons.

The combination of my love for owls and my admiration for Carl Hiaasen's work is truly a winning one. I am excited to be sharing this wonderful combination with a few of my students as they participate in their Battle of the Books competitions. I believe that these books will not only provide them with an enjoyable reading experience but also inspire them to think critically and explore new ideas.

I can't wait to see how my students respond to these books and how they use their knowledge and creativity in the competitions. It's going to be an exciting and rewarding experience for all of us.
July 15,2025
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There aren't many outstanding books of this kind available.

I believe that for younger readers, this book might progress at a somewhat slower pace, particularly those sections involving the foreman and the police. However, it remains a good book and serves as an excellent starting point for discussions with a young individual regarding various topics.

This book has put me in a nature-oriented frame of mind, and I will definitely have to reread "Hatchet" at some point. I don't recall ever completing all the books in that series.

Lately, I have been relishing physical books. It's a wonderful experience to hold a book in my hands and turn the pages, feeling the texture of the paper and the weight of the words. ✨
July 15,2025
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This book just sort of landed in my lap.

A friend of mine gave it to me along with a bunch of other books she was leaving behind as she was moving.

All she told me was that it was cute. Since I do enjoy YA literature, I thought I'd give it a try when I had a free evening.

I was pleasantly surprised to find it quite an engaging read. The plot was clever, and the main characters were believable.

I really appreciated the message taught in the book. It wasn't so much the environmental message, which was okay, but rather the message that sometimes life presents us with alternatives that aren't clearly black or white.

We have to dig deep within ourselves to figure out what to do when outside sources don't have all the answers. I also liked the parents in this book who were supportive but allowed their son to make his own decisions.

However, some of the supporting characters were a little too "cardboard cutout" for my taste. The bumbling police officer and the construction site foreman were both too one-dimensional.

But, since they were relatively minor characters, it didn't significantly reduce my enjoyment of the book. Overall, I recommend this as a light, enjoyable, and entertaining read.

July 15,2025
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As I perused this book, I discovered that while it was indeed designed to be entertaining for a younger audience, it still managed to tell an enjoyable story.

What I particularly liked was how one young kid was able to change the minds of others. He achieved this by courageously showing them the wrongdoings that others were engaged in.

Moreover, he did his utmost to protect the owls. A major company was completely ignoring the presence of these owls because they were solely focused on building. They didn't care about the cost, whether it was to the environment or to the well-being of the owls. All they wanted was to obtain the land.

The story thus conveyed a powerful message. It emphasized the importance of standing up for what is right, even in the face of powerful opposition. It also served as a reminder that we should always consider the consequences of our actions on the natural world around us. Overall, it was a thought-provoking and engaging read.
July 15,2025
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We embarked on this endeavor. However, after I had to censor certain inappropriate language, we came to the conclusion that this is not the kind of material that is suitable for a 6-year-old to listen to or read.

It is essential to consider the age and maturity level of the child when choosing what to expose them to. A 6-year-old is in a stage of rapid development and learning, and their minds are impressionable.

We want to ensure that the content they are exposed to is positive, educational, and in line with their values and beliefs.

Therefore, it is crucial to be vigilant and discerning when selecting books, stories, or any other form of media for children.

By doing so, we can help them develop a healthy and positive mindset, and lay a solid foundation for their future growth and development.
July 15,2025
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We thoroughly enjoyed this particular piece as a read aloud.

It was truly captivating, and everyone in the group couldn't get enough. They begged for more with great enthusiasm.

The theme of the importance of the environment and protecting nature was not only relevant but also presented in a wonderful and engaging way.

It made us all stop and think about our role in safeguarding the natural world around us.

The story managed to convey this crucial message in a manner that was accessible and interesting for all ages.

It served as a reminder that we have a responsibility to take care of the environment and ensure its preservation for future generations.

Overall, it was a remarkable read that left a lasting impression on us all.
July 15,2025
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Another audiobook has been crossed off the list.

I have to admit that I would have much rather read this particular book on my own than listen to it in audio format. However, to my surprise, the kids absolutely adored it.

As soon as the audiobook ended, they were eager to watch the movie adaptation.

When I asked for their thoughts, they unanimously agreed that the book was better.

It's interesting to see how different people can have such diverse preferences when it comes to consuming literature.

While I may have my own reasons for preferring the traditional way of reading, it's great to see that the kids were able to engage with the story through the audiobook and still appreciate the unique qualities that the written word has to offer.

Perhaps this will inspire them to explore more books in the future, whether in print or audio form.
July 15,2025
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Just a perfect YA novel, by one of my favorite fun authors!

Connor and I had the pleasure of delving into this amazing book, and we were simply enthralled from start to finish.

The story was filled with excitement, adventure, and a touch of romance that kept us on the edge of our seats.

The author's unique writing style brought the characters to life, making them feel like real people we could relate to.

We especially loved the development of the main characters, who grew and changed throughout the story in a believable and heartwarming way.

Overall, this is a must-read for any YA fan, and we can't wait to see what this author comes up with next!
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