47 pages • 1 hour read
Chomp
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Book Brief
320
Novel • Fiction
Florida Everglades • Contemporary
2012
Middle grade
10-14 years
800L
Super Short Summary
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
Reviews & Readership
26,768 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
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.
Who Should Read Chomp?
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.
26,768 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Mickey Cray
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
Derek Badger
The egotistical star of Expedition Survival!, whose inability to distinguish reality from fantasy lands him in precarious situations.
Tuna Gordon
Tuna Gordon
Wahoo’s knowledgeable and resilient classmate who uses her love for taxonomy to escape from her father’s abuse.
Raven Stark
Raven Stark
The experienced producer of Expedition Survival! who juggles the demands of the show with moments of empathy and connection.
Jared Gordon
Jared Gordon
Tuna's father, depicted as an unemployed man with a dangerous temper, who pursues his daughter into the Everglades.
Link
Link
A towering airboat driver with a rough exterior who unexpectedly bonds with Tuna and reveals a caring side.
320
Novel • Fiction
Florida Everglades • Contemporary
2012
Middle grade
10-14 years
800L
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