Book Blurb # 7: Hoot by Carl Hiaasen

          Hoot is a classic tale told from the perspective of the new student and outcast, Roy. While being harassed by bullies may seem like the worst way to start off in a new place, Roy soon starts to appreciate the bullying, purely for the events that happen because of it.  While getting beat up, Roy meets Beatrice and the running boy (Mullet Fingers), and they embark on an adventure of a lifetime.  Together Roy, Beatrice, and Mullet Fingers set out to stop the development of a new pancake house. The pancake house happens to sit on top of a colony of burrowing owls.  Building the pancake house would mean destroying the owls and their home, and the characters in this story are determined to not let that happen, despite facing resistance from the crooked developers.

           Though I had seen the movie version of this book, I had never actually read the book.  I always enjoyed the movie, but (of course) the book was significantly better.  I loved the storyline and I enjoyed the dynamic relationship between all of the characters. Also, being an animal lover, it was touching to read a story that brings awareness to such causes.  Since reading the book, I have recommended it to many of my 4^th graders.  They have all loved the book and pass it, along with the other Hiaasen books, around with their peers. 

          Now that many of my students have read this book, I think it would be fun to complete the Carl Hiaasen webquest that I created for my literature enrichment project.  Through this webquest, students would be able to read all about the author and answer questions related to the various activities.  Additionally, they would be able to learn more about his other novels, which have similar plots and themes. 

          Focusing more on the book Hoot, students could watch the movie and complete an analysis, comparing and contrasting the main events, main characters, and essential themes of both versions.

          Additionally, a class could complete an reflection/character education activity that centered around relevant themes in the text (friendship, integrity, corruption) Sample reflection questions could include:

1. Based on what you read in Hoot, what qualities would you find in a genuine friend? 

2. The story Hoot deals with a lot of corruption and dishonesty. In what ways did some of the main characters maintain their integrity throughout the story?

3. In you own words, why is integrity an important element of a person’s character?


Thanks for stopping by!

Jamie