Wrecker

Carl Hiaasen
55 pages1-hour read
Fiction
Novel
Middle Grade
Published in 2023

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Book Brief

Carl Hiaasen

Wrecker

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2023
Book Details
Pages

336

Format

Novel • Fiction

Genre
Mystery & Crime Fiction

•

Action & Adventure

•

Realistic Fiction
Theme
Emotions/Behavior: Courage

•

Fear

•

Joy
First Publication Year

2023

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

Wrecker by Carl Hiaasen follows a young person navigating environmental struggles in Florida. The narrative combines themes of conservation, humor, and adventure as the protagonist faces challenges that highlight the impact of human interference on nature. The story encourages readers to reflect on their relationship with the environment and the importance of preserving it.

Humorous

Adventurous

Exciting

Playful

Reviews & Readership

4.2

9,154 ratings

80%

Loved it

16%

Mixed feelings

4%

Not a fan

Roundup icon

Review Roundup

Wrecker by Carl Hiaasen combines sharp wit with a fast-paced narrative, a signature of Hiaasen's style. Readers appreciate the satirical humor and vivid characters, though some find the plot's predictability a drawback. The environmental themes resonate well, balancing entertainment with social commentary. Overall, it's engaging with some narrative limitations.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Wrecker?

A reader drawn to Wrecker by Carl Hiaasen likely enjoys satirical and humorous crime mysteries with environmental themes. Fans of Sick Puppy or Stormy Weather will appreciate Hiaasen's unique blend of critique and comedy, engaging in plots that cleverly intertwine human folly with ecological contexts.

4.2

9,154 ratings

80%

Loved it

16%

Mixed feelings

4%

Not a fan

Character List

The 15-year-old protagonist who is introverted and enjoys navigating the waters around Key West. He works various jobs to support his family and becomes involved in efforts to protect the local marine environment.

Wrecker’s nurturing stepsister who uses a wheelchair and provides a supportive home for him. She is active in advocating for Key West’s marine environment despite her physical challenges.

Wrecker’s classmate who is confident and loves soccer and skateboarding. She is intelligent, persistent in making friends with Wrecker, and shares his love for Key West.

The primary antagonist who is a smuggler involved in illegal activities. He manipulates Wrecker and values his own comfort and convenience above all else.

Wrecker’s mother and Roger’s wife, who is self-centered and focused on cosmetic surgeries. Despite some affection for Wrecker, she lacks a meaningful connection with him.

Wrecker’s father who abandoned the family to pursue a music career. He returns to Key West, exemplifying themes of independence from problematic parents.

Carole’s husband and Suzanne’s father, who is supportive of Carole but struggles to connect with Wrecker. Initially skeptical of vaccines, he undergoes personal growth regarding COVID-19.

Book Details
Pages

336

Format

Novel • Fiction

Genre
Mystery & Crime Fiction

•

Action & Adventure

•

Realistic Fiction
Theme
Emotions/Behavior: Courage

•

Fear

•

Joy
First Publication Year

2023

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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