Hiaasen's Squirm captures readers with its engaging plot and environmental themes. The novel's humor and relatable teen protagonist are praised, though some critics find the story's pacing uneven. The blend of adventure and ecological awareness appeals to younger audiences, despite occasional predictability in narrative twists.

Readers who enjoy fast-paced, humorous mysteries with environmental themes will love Squirm by Carl Hiaasen. Similar to Hiaasen's other works like Hoot and Louis Sachar’s Holes, it appeals to middle-grade readers who appreciate quirky characters and adventure-filled plots.

In Carl Hiaasen's Squirm, 13-year-old Billy Dickens embarks on a quest to find his estranged father, Dennis, leading him from South Florida to Montana. Along the way, Billy becomes entangled in efforts to protect endangered species from poachers. Themes of environmental conservation, family dynamics, and individuality are explored as Billy's adventure unfolds.

Humorous / Adventurous / Playful / Suspenseful

- Squirm marks a return to Hiaasen's roots in children's literature, continuing his trend of crafting stories that blend environmental themes with humor and adventure.
- Carl Hiaasen, renowned for his satirical take on Florida's environmental issues, infuses Squirm with his signature wit, making it both a fun and educational read for young audiences.
- The book incorporates Hiaasen’s passion for wildlife and conservation, using engaging storytelling to spark an interest in environmental stewardship among younger readers.

**Billy Dickens**  
A 13-year-old boy from Fort Pierce, Florida, who has a passion for snakes and uses his skills to stand up to bullies. Experiences a complex family situation due to his father's absence.

**Summer Chasing-Hawks (Summer)**  
A 14-year-old Crow girl and Dennis Dickens’s stepdaughter, she plays a significant role in welcoming Billy to Montana and shares an interest in wildlife protection.

**Little Thunder-Sky (Lil)**  
A Crow tribe member and Dennis’s wife, she works as a trout guide and supports Dennis's past decisions while maintaining a harmonious relationship with the Dickens family.

**Mr. Dickens (Dennis)**  
Billy's father with a complicated past, who left his first family and now dedicates his life to protecting endangered animals. His actions impact both his new and original families.

**Mrs. Dickens (Chrissie)**  
Billy's mother, who is fascinated with bald eagle nests and often relocates her family to observe them. Supports Billy despite initial reluctance regarding his interest in meeting Dennis.

**Belinda Dickens**  
Billy’s older sister, primarily interested in her boyfriend and social media, though initially wary, she eventually forms connections with the extended family.

**Lincoln Chumley Baxter IV**  
A wealthy Californian who partakes in illegal big-game hunting for thrill, posing as the novel's primary antagonist due to his hazardous pursuits.

**Daisy Baxter**  
Baxter’s wife, an expert marksman who dislikes killing animals and aids in countering Baxter’s hunting schemes by providing critical information.

**Axel Burnside**  
A Texan dog trainer specializing in silent tracking hounds, initially misled by Baxter but shows integrity by refusing a job that involves hunting endangered animals.

**Dawson**  
Belinda’s wealthy, boastful boyfriend whose cruelty towards animals leads to conflict and eventual estrangement from Belinda.

Carl Hiaasen

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