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
... Show More
Our son began to read this book, and as a result, I had the thought that I would also give it a try so that we could have a discussion about it.

However, he made the decision to abandon it, and I was rather relieved that he did so.

I would not, under any circumstances, recommend this book to anyone.

In the story, one character engages in vandalism and sabotages the construction of a business.

If one believes that the business shouldn't be built, that's perfectly acceptable. But to celebrate a child or anyone who breaks the law in the name of saving the environment or animals is, in my opinion, completely wrong.

I took a look at other children's books that he has written, and they all seem to follow a similar theme.

I would have no liking for any book that promotes this kind of behavior, even if it was for a cause that I myself believed in.

This is because, in my view, the end does not justify the means.

We should always encourage children to find legal and ethical ways to address issues and make a positive impact on the world.
July 15,2025
... Show More
I had to read for school. It was a task that I couldn't avoid.

Reading is an essential part of the learning process. It helps us gain knowledge, improve our vocabulary, and enhance our comprehension skills.

Sometimes, the reading materials assigned by the school can be challenging, but that's what makes it worthwhile.

I make sure to set aside some time each day to focus on my reading. I find a quiet place where I can concentrate and get lost in the words.

As I read, I take notes and highlight important points. This helps me remember what I've read and also makes it easier to study for exams.

Although reading for school can be a bit of a chore at times, I know that it's beneficial in the long run. It's a skill that will serve me well throughout my life.

So, I embrace the task and do my best to make the most of it. After all, education is the key to a bright future.

July 15,2025
... Show More
It’s tough always being “the new kid”.

It’s even tougher when there is a bully involved. But the day Dana Matherson mashed Roy Eberhardt’s face against the school bus window was perhaps the greatest stroke of luck since Alexander Graham Bell spilled acid on his leg.

For it was at that exact moment that Roy saw the mysterious running boy bolting past the bus. He was wearing no shoes and carrying no backpack or books. What was he running from? Where was he going? And why wasn’t he wearing any shoes?

Turns out, that wasn’t the only mystery in the sleepy little town of Coconut Cove, Florida. Someone is trying to prevent the newest Mother Paula’s All-American Pancake House from being built.

Between burrowing owls, alligators, sparkly-tailed snakes, fake farts, and nightly pranks, perhaps Coconut Cove isn’t so sleepy after all.

Carl Hiaasen’s "Hoot" was awarded a Newbery Honor in 2003. He gives us two mysteries in one: a strange running boy and a vandal thwarting the efforts of a big-time corporation.

The story is witty, fast-paced, and full of heart. Our hero, Roy, is likeable and full of moxie. For a kid who just wants to get through the school day unnoticed, he makes it a point to stand out from the crowd.

From taking on the school bully to striking up an unusual friendship with Beatrice Leep, an elite soccer star, Roy quickly makes a name for himself and becomes the unlikeliest of heroes.

"Hoot" is more than just a story about friendship and courage. It is a David-versus-Goliath story as environmentalism goes head-to-head with capitalism.

It’s burrowing owls against big bucks and a group of average kids willing to go to great lengths in order to protect something far more valuable than a building or a brand.

In addition, we are introduced to a rather unseemly group of adults: an opportunistic officer, a nasty vice-principal, crooked politicians, a vile stepmother, greedy corporate heads, and so on.

Luckily, there are a few adults in the book who haven’t sold their soul to the devil, but the spotlight is really on Roy, Beatrice, and our mysterious running boy, which proves that good things do come in small packages.

American writer and poet Suzy Kassem wrote, “Stand up for what is right, even if you stand alone.” Carl Hiaasen gives readers a story about defending the weakest among us—the helpless and vulnerable who either lack the voice to speak up or the courage to stand up.

He provides instances showing people doing good in order to curry favor or to get ahead, but it’s the instances where good is done simply because it is the right thing to do that proves to be the truest measure of a person.

Hiaasen illustrates this through a new kid, a mysterious running boy, and a soccer star—three unlikely friends who wouldn’t give up despite the odds and showed that every life is precious and worth preserving.

That, dear friends, is something we should all give a hoot about.
July 15,2025
... Show More

I found the book to be quite entertaining. However, when considering the genre, it simply didn't reach the level of being an amazing book. It was tolerable, and in fact, it was one of the best realistic fiction books I have read so far. But still, it remains within the realm of realistic fiction. This genre has its own charm and limitations. While it can offer a relatable and engaging story, it may not always have the same wow factor as other more fantastical or thrilling genres. Nevertheless, this book managed to hold my attention and provide an enjoyable reading experience. It had its moments of excitement and heartwarming scenes that made it worth the read. Although it may not be a masterpiece, it is definitely a solid addition to the world of realistic fiction.

July 15,2025
... Show More
I have a deep affection for the kind of stories where the kids are alright, and Carl Hiaasen has never let me down in this regard.

Hoot is a remarkable book that fills me with hope. It makes me believe that there are indeed real-life kids out there who truly care about this planet. They are the ones who want to preserve whatever little is left that hasn't been completely ruined.

Here, seeing new construction spring up everywhere truly pains my soul. There is no scarcity of already available commercial sites. Moreover, housing has become unaffordable for a significant portion of the population. So, perhaps it would be wise to address this issue before embarking on yet another new development.

For those who have a soft spot for The Lorax, Hoot follows a similar vein. It offers a powerful message about environmental conservation and the importance of standing up for what is right.
July 15,2025
... Show More
I initially believed that I was too advanced in age to truly appreciate Hoot's message. However, Carl Hiassen managed to prove me completely wrong. Hoot presents a wonderfully developed cast of the most captivating characters I've encountered since The Importance of Being Earnest. The story doesn't merely revolve around Roy Edberhart (assuming that's the correct spelling), Mullet Fingers, and Beatrice Leep in their battle against the construction of a Mother Paula's Pancake house. Beneath its lighthearted and often humorous exterior, the book serves as a window into the alarming and rapid destruction of Florida's wildlife to make way for civilization and pancake houses. It's a poignant reminder that as Paper Towns emerge, the animals are left with no choice but to flee or perish.

This book comes highly recommended for anyone who has a fondness for Paper Towns by John Green or The Lorax by Dr. Seuss. I firmly believe that one can never be too old to enjoy and gain valuable insights from this remarkable piece of literature.
July 15,2025
... Show More
This was such a cute and funny book.

I read it a few years back. At that time, I was immediately attracted by its charming story and vivid characters.

Now, as I am rereading it, I find that I still love it just as much as I did then. The humor and warmth in the book have not diminished with time.

I truly believe that this book has the power to bring joy and laughter to people of all ages. Therefore, I would highly recommend it to anyone and everyone. Whether you are a child or an adult, this book is sure to capture your heart and make you smile.

Give it a try, and you won't be disappointed.
July 15,2025
... Show More
Funny.

Silly.

This is not brilliant writing, but that's actually a great thing.

Hiaasen has a unique way of making his points. He manages to include some really good jokes that will make you laugh out loud.

Of course, there are also some cheesy ones, but that just adds to the charm.

What's more, he combines all this fun with a serious message about environmentalism.

We all know that we need to take care of our planet, and Hiaasen does a great job of highlighting this important issue in an entertaining way.

Overall, this is a really good read.

It's light-hearted enough to be enjoyable, but also has some depth and substance.

Whether you're looking for a fun beach read or something to pass the time on a rainy day, this book is definitely worth checking out.

You'll have a great time reading it and might even learn something along the way.

So go ahead and give it a try!

July 15,2025
... Show More
I truly enjoyed reading the book "Hoot". The plot was engaging, the setting was vividly described, and most importantly, the characters were well-developed. I could relate to the main character, Roy, in several aspects.

Firstly, we both have a penchant for staying indoors and indulging in a good book. Additionally, Roy mentioned in the book that Florida is extremely flat, which is why he enjoys going biking, just like I do. What really made me feel a connection with him was our shared curiosity. When Roy saw a boy running barefoot without a backpack on a school day, he impulsively decided to hit his bully hard and then ran off the school bus after the boy.

However, there are still parts where Roy and I differ. For instance, he has had to move countless times due to his dad's job. Changing schools so frequently must be incredibly tough. I think this is the reason why he is a quiet person. Overall, "Hoot" is a great book that not only tells an exciting story but also allows readers to identify with the characters on a personal level.
July 15,2025
... Show More
I firmly believe that this book is extremely outstanding.

The reason for my opinion is that the story concludes with the three teenagers successfully saving the owls and their precious environment.

The book centers around a boy named Roy who begins attending a new school. On his very first day, while on the school bus, he notices a boy running at an astonishing speed, probably even faster than the bus, and he is barefooted. This sight immediately makes Roy start wondering various things.

Then, a girl realizes that Roy is staring at the barefooted boy and warns him to keep his mouth shut. The next day, Roy spots the boy again and is left wondering why no one else seems to notice him. Later that day, Roy decides to bring a pair of sneakers for the barefooted boy, just in case he is poor or has a need for them.

The girl he met the previous day is with the barefooted boy and overhears Roy. She then comes out and tells him to go away, suggesting that the barefooted boy might actually like being barefooted. The next day, she reveals to Roy more about the boy and her relationship with him. Additionally, she starts defending Roy from a bully.

Finally, they manage to save the owls from a mean man who is aware of the owls' existence and attempts to build a pancake house in the very place where they live.

Overall, this book is not only engaging but also has a powerful message about protecting nature and standing up for what is right.
July 15,2025
... Show More
I attempted to read this a few years ago, but I simply wasn't interested in it at all.

I persisted in reading, perhaps with the thought that it might have a slow start, but that wasn't the case.

The story progressed at a sluggish pace. There was really nothing that made me eager to turn the page.

I felt that this could have been significantly better.

It seemed to lack the excitement and momentum that would have kept me engaged from beginning to end.

The characters didn't draw me in, and the plot failed to grip my attention.

Maybe with some improvements in pacing, more interesting character development, and a more engaging storyline, this could have been a much more enjoyable read.

As it stands, however, it didn't meet my expectations and left me rather disappointed.
July 15,2025
... Show More
Are you truly in Florida if you don't read Carl Hiaasan while you're there?

Carl Hiaasan's works are like a vivid window into the unique and often wild world of Florida. His stories are filled with the state's colorful characters, from eccentric locals to corrupt politicians.

When you read his books, you can almost smell the salty ocean air, feel the humid breeze, and envision the lush landscapes.

His writing style is engaging and humorous, making his novels a joy to read. Whether you're lounging on the beach, driving along the highways, or exploring the cities and towns of Florida, having a Carl Hiaasan book in your hand can enhance your experience and give you a deeper understanding of the state's culture and idiosyncrasies.

So, if you want to truly immerse yourself in the Florida experience, make sure to pick up one of Carl Hiaasan's books and let his words transport you to this wonderful and wacky place.
Leave a Review
You must be logged in to rate and post a review. Register an account to get started.