Carl Hiaasen was born and raised in Florida, and was a voracious reader as a child. He knew he wanted to be a writer at the young age of six, when he received his first typewriter and began typing newsletters for his friends. After working as a newspaper reporter and columnist, Carl started writing novels for adults in the early 1980s. Four years ago, Carl wrote his first novel for children, HOOT, which was awarded the Newbery Honor Medal, and he recently came out with another children's book, Flush. Learn more about the author in Carl Hiaasen's biography.

About His Books
Set in Carl Hiaasen’s home state of Florida, both HOOT and Flush follow the escapades of fiercely smart and courageous boys who come face to face with environmental destruction — and aren't afraid of the challenge. HOOT stars Roy, the new boy in town who becomes entangled with scary soccer player Beatrice and wild runaway Mullet Fingers as they try to stop the construction of a restaurant that threatens to damage the dens of burrowing owls. In Flush, Noah and his sister, Abbey hatch a plan to clear their dad's name after he sinks a casino boat to protest its illegal dumping.