Carl Hiaasen's Chomp is widely praised for its humor, engaging plot, and environmental themes. Readers appreciate the quirky characters and clever writing but note that the pacing can be uneven. Some feel the plot is far-fetched, yet it remains an entertaining read suitable for both teens and adults. Hiaasen's satirical style shines through, making it a worthwhile addition to his bibliography.

A reader who enjoys Chomp by Carl Hiaasen typically appreciates humorous, adventure-filled novels with environmental themes. Ideal for fans of Gary Paulsen's Hatchet or Louis Sachar's Holes, this reader values quirky characters, fast-paced narratives, and clever social satire. Suitable for middle-grade audiences and adults alike.

In Carl Hiaasen’s novel Chomp, animal wrangler Mickey Cray and his son Wahoo are hired by a reality TV show to provide animals for an Everglades episode, leading to various conflicts with the show's producer and star. The Crays' adventure intensifies when they bring along Wahoo's classmate Tuna, who is fleeing domestic abuse, and the group faces challenges from dangerous wildlife, harsh weather, and a gunman in the Everglades. The book includes descriptions of domestic abuse, gun violence, hostage situations, alcohol abuse, and the mistreatment of animals.

Humorous / Adventurous / Exciting / Playful / Mysterious

- Carl Hiaasen, the author of Chomp, is known for incorporating his passion for environmental conservation and wildlife into his works, often highlighting the ecological diversity of Florida.
- Before writing children's novels like Chomp, Carl Hiaasen gained fame as a columnist and journalist for the Miami Herald, where he frequently addressed issues related to Florida's environment and politics.
- Chomp was released in 2012 and is part of Hiaasen's series of novels aimed at younger readers, following successful titles like Hoot and Flush, all of which focus on environmental themes.

**Wahoo Cray**  
The young teenage protagonist who grows up amidst alligators and other wildlife, balancing his father's impulsiveness with his own financial acumen and resourcefulness.

**Mickey Cray**  
An animal wrangler and Wahoo’s eclectic and loving father, who is more comfortable with his animals than people and holds a strict moral code.

**Derek Badger**  
The egotistical star of Expedition Survival!, whose inability to distinguish reality from fantasy lands him in precarious situations.

**Tuna Gordon**  
Wahoo’s knowledgeable and resilient classmate who uses her love for taxonomy to escape from her father’s abuse.

**Raven Stark**  
The experienced producer of Expedition Survival! who juggles the demands of the show with moments of empathy and connection.

**Jared Gordon**  
Tuna's father, depicted as an unemployed man with a dangerous temper, who pursues his daughter into the Everglades.

**Link**  
A towering airboat driver with a rough exterior who unexpectedly bonds with Tuna and reveals a caring side.

Carl Hiaasen

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