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

Carl Hiaasen

Middle grade

Novel

Fiction

Guide

Study Guide

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content

Overview

Get ready to explore Squirm and its meaning. Our full analysis and study guide provides an even deeper dive with character analysis and quotes explained to help you discover the complexity and beauty of this book.

Squirm Summary and Study Guide

Background

Squirm Background

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Chapters 1-5

Squirm Chapters 1-5 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 6-10

Squirm Chapters 6-10 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 11-16

Squirm Chapters 11-16 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 17-23

Squirm Chapters 17-23 Summary & Analysis

character

Character Analysis

Squirm Character Analysis

theme

Themes

Squirm Themes

Symbols & Motifs

Squirm Symbols & Motifs

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Important Quotes

Squirm Important Quotes

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Essay Topics

Squirm Essay Topics

Squirm

Before You Read

Reviews & Readership

Review Roundup

Who Should Read Squirm?

Reading Age

Book Details