I read this with my 7th grade language arts class and think it’s a gem for that age group.

My classes overall said they like the movie better than the book (we watched it after finishing the book), but I think it’s because they didn’t expect to like the movie.

The book is almost always better :). In fact, the book offers a more in-depth exploration of the story, characters, and their emotions. It allows readers to use their imagination and create their own mental images of the scenes.

Moreover, the details and descriptions in the book can often be more vivid and engaging than what is shown in the movie. While the movie may have its own charm and visual appeal, it sometimes has to cut out certain parts of the story to fit within the time limit.

This can result in a loss of some of the nuances and subtleties that make the book so great. However, I do understand that some students may prefer the movie because it is a more passive form of entertainment.

They can just sit back and watch the story unfold on the screen without having to do any work. But for those who truly want to experience the full richness of the story, the book is the way to go.

It was truly and absolutely beautiful ❤️❤️❤️. This is just a YA book that delves into the impact of youth on many problematic situations. Here, a pancake restaurant construction site is being built, but it poses a concern and threat to the habitat of the owls that surround it.

This book might seem like a silly and goofy novel, revolving around three kids - Roy, Mullet, and Beatrice. They engage in playing around and pulling pranks on the site to delay the construction of the restaurant and the seemingly 'inevitable' destruction of the owl's habitat. However, it is truly pleasant to observe that even young ones, through their own unique and perhaps unconventional ways, can have a positive and significant effect on the world around them. Their actions show that age doesn't limit one's ability to make a difference and stand up for what is right.

It serves as a reminder that every individual, regardless of their age, has the potential to bring about positive change and protect the environment and the creatures that inhabit it. This YA book not only entertains but also imparts an important message about the power of youth and their ability to make a meaningful impact.

I have a deep affection for Carl Hiaasen's YA novels, and this particular one, "Hoot", was truly TREMENDOUS!

The story takes place on the Left Coast of FL, presenting a rich tapestry of a setting. It features a wonderful cast of characters, some of whom you can't help but love, while others you might find yourself disliking.

Although I'm an old fart at 68 years old, I still have a great appreciation for a well-written YA book. And "Hoot" most definitely falls into that category. It manages to engage readers of all ages with its captivating plot and well-developed characters.

Whether it's the adventures of the young protagonist or the various subplots that unfold, there's always something interesting happening in this book. It's a testament to Hiaasen's skill as a writer that he can create a story that appeals to both the young and the young at heart.

I would highly recommend "Hoot" to anyone looking for an entertaining and engaging read, regardless of their age.

The following review is by my son and padawan Liam:

I give HOOT 4 and a half stars. I really liked the presence of a mysterious running boy named "Mullet Fingers". It was interesting to see how Mullet Fingers and Beatrice were related. Also, I liked how Roy tricked Dana into thinking there were cigarettes in a trailer and that he stepped in the mouse traps.

However, I disliked that the ending kind of left you hanging. It made me feel a bit unsatisfied. Additionally, I didn't like that the story is called "Hoot" and you don't figure out the title until the very end. It would have been nice to have some hints earlier on.

Despite these drawbacks, I would definitely recommend this book to other kids. It has an engaging plot and interesting characters that will keep you hooked from start to finish.

I have a profound love for this remarkable book penned by Carl Hiaasen. It revolves around a new boy who arrives at a school in Florida.

As I cast my eyes upon its cover, I was immediately intrigued to read that it had achieved the prestigious status of being the #1 New York Times Bestseller and a Newbery Honor Book.

I was in need of a book for one of my Group Challenges, and my dear granddaughter came to my aid in selecting this very one. Oh, how glad I am that we discovered it!

The new boy in town, Roy Eberhardt, emerges as the hero in this captivating story.

Everyone adores Mother Paula's pancakes until they attempt to construct a restaurant in Roy's hometown, specifically on a piece of property where a colony of endangered owls have resided for numerous years.

This tale of greedy developers, corrupt politicians, and the unwavering determination of three children to safeguard the owls is truly extraordinary and heartwarming.

It serves as a wonderful means to educate kids about taking a firm stand on environmental issues.

I give thanks for authors like Carl Hiaasen. He writes stories that strengthen our youth's conscience and awareness of environmental matters. Hoot was Mr. Hiaasen's children's book debut. Although it seems targeted at the middle-grade children's crowd, I, as an adult, thoroughly enjoyed it. I read this with my eleven-year-old, and his enthusiasm was contagious. He is slowly but surely devouring each of Mr. Hiaasen's novels, so I decided to see what it's all about.

The main plot of Hoot is an ecological thriller/mystery about endangered burrowing owls. The middle-school-aged characters are great. I liked seeing young perspectives on adults, rules/laws, and the environment. I can see why my son loves this author! Apparently, this title has been adapted to film, so I'll probably watch it soon.
As with most books I enjoy, I researched the author or the subject matter. Reading inspires me to learn more. After reading about these endangered creatures, my appreciation for Mr. Hiaasen soared. I learned that the greatest threat to burrowing owls is habitat destruction and degradation. Despite their protected status, they are often displaced and their burrows destroyed during development.
If you know any elementary or middle school-aged kids, recommend Mr. Hiaasen to them. Gift them one of his books for young readers! You'll be encouraging literacy and giving the gift of a positive ecological and environmental perspective at the perfect age. Do it!
My favorite quote: “Just because something is legal doesn’t automatically make it right.”
Carl Hiaasen's collection for young audiences includes the following standalone novels as of May 2015: Hoot, Flush, Scat, and Chomp.

This one was really enjoyable.

It is quite evident that it is a Young Adult (YA) book. While I do have a preference for those books where the YA genre isn't as blatantly obvious, there is absolutely nothing amiss with this one. In fact, it is still very well-written.

Moreover, I found myself murmuring under my breath: "I like you, Stuart. You aren't like the other people here in the trailer park."

This simple statement adds an interesting layer to the story. It makes one wonder about Stuart's character and what sets him apart from the others in the trailer park.

Perhaps it is his personality, his values, or his dreams.

It also makes the reader curious about the dynamics within the trailer park and how Stuart fits into that environment.

Overall, this book has managed to capture my attention and keep me engaged with its well-developed characters and an intriguing storyline.

I look forward to seeing where the story takes me next.

Mullet fingers has just managed to escape from his parents. He is well aware that he is on a mission to save some owls that inhabit the terrain where a Mother Paula's Pancake House is going to be built. The construction will inevitably dig up the owls' houses and, quite obviously, kill those precious owls.

So far, it might seem like a rather dumb and uninteresting story. However, things take a thrilling turn when Mullet fingers begins to take extreme risks. He paints the windows of the cops' cars black, trespasses on private property, refuses to go to school (which is illegal in Florida), and continuously eludes his parents. Suddenly, you find yourself on the edge of your seat, filled with suspense.

Carl Hiaasen demonstrates excellent word choice and vivid imagery throughout the book. I can clearly envision how Dana is tormenting poor Roy. The techniques Carl employs in this novel include having two settings that ultimately converge. Additionally, she keeps you in a state of suspense, compelling you to keep reading, and there is also a touch of mystery.

I believe the author's intention is to make us more cautious about our actions. If we are not mindful of what we are doing, we are likely to cause harm to the environment. The book is rich in details and employs a wide range of words such as "rumble," "thicket," and "trudging." While some words may be difficult and not overly descriptive, I can understand their meaning within the context. I also think that the author never uses the technique of repetition. In essence, I believe that the book is a complete adventure, filled with both funny and sad moments. It is truly an excellent read.

I saw another review for this book that said it was the perfect example of a perfectly okay book. And I wholeheartedly agree. This is truly the best way to describe this one.

The plot is just okay. It doesn't have any major flaws, but it also doesn't have that something special that would make it stand out. The writing is competent, but not overly engaging. The characters are somewhat developed, but not particularly memorable. The climax is exciting enough, but not earth-shattering. And the ending ties up the loose ends neatly, but it doesn't leave a lasting impression.

I was neither enthralled nor particularly put off by this book. I would've been okay never finishing it, but it wasn't bad enough to quit. It's just a book that exists.

I will say I was exceptionally disappointed with the bullying aspect. The descriptions of choking people to the point of bruising were quite disturbing. And the way that the adults handled this situation was completely unacceptable. It made me question the author's message and the overall tone of the book.

Overall, this is a perfectly okay book. It's not great, but it's not terrible either. If you're looking for something to pass the time, it might be worth a read. But if you're looking for a truly outstanding book, you might want to look elsewhere.

The first OBOB read for the 2018 season has begun, and it's truly a great start.

"Hoot" is an incredibly fast-paced and funny read that also incorporates elements of mystery and action.

The message it conveys is extremely relevant, empowering kids to make a difference by making the right choices and taking a stand.

What's more, this book doesn't sugarcoat things. It acknowledges that not every issue can be resolved easily.

It's a great choice for OBOB and offers entertainment for the whole family.

Whether you're a child or an adult, you're sure to enjoy the engaging story and valuable lessons in "Hoot".

So, pick up a copy and start reading today!

You won't be disappointed.

I embarked on a new project. In this project, I am delving into some of the middle grade/young adult books that are lying around the house and belong to my boys but they haven't read them yet. My hope is that I can inspire them to work their way through our ever-expanding TBR Mountain on their own. However, the problem with this plan is becoming increasingly obvious. I'm realizing that I don't actually enjoy all of these books that much myself.

I thought this particular book was very, just, fine.

There is a bully, a mysterious kid, and an unlikely friendship. I'm beginning to think that these might be the criteria for middle grade books, perhaps even for a good reason. It is very close to a police procedural for a young audience, which I did find quite amusing. It serves as good material for a book report as the central plot revolves around endangered owls and how to save them from a greedy pancake corporation. It concludes with a feel-good kumbaya moment. Overall, it's very, just, fine.

This may be my first Carl Hiaasen read.

Given the name recognition, my expectations were indeed high. However, I was rather disappointed.

The environmental aspect of the book is interesting, but it simply doesn't outweigh the disturbing elements such as the violence and abuse. The scene where a teen strangles another is truly alarming.

What's more, there are no real consequences for the perpetrator or the parents in the abuse cases. It gives a wrong message.

Sure, the children are portrayed as heroes, but a great children/young adult book doesn't need swearing and vandalizing to be considered "cool". These elements are a real turn off for me.

This book perhaps appeals more to male audiences, but for me, it fails to meet the standards of a good children's literature.