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Tourist Season summary
Brief summary
Tourist Season by Carl Hiaasen is a darkly comedic novel that satirizes Florida's obsession with tourism. It follows a group of eco-terrorists who aim to drive away the tourists by any means necessary.
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Tourist Season
Summary of key ideas
The Unusual Disappearances
In Tourist Season by Carl Hiaasen, we embark on a wild journey across South Florida. The story begins with the mysterious disappearance of a number of tourists, all of whom were visiting the Sunshine State. These disappearances raise eyebrows, but no solid leads are uncovered.
Our protagonist, Brian Keyes, a former journalist turned private investigator, is asked to look into the case. His investigation leads him to the quirky group of eco-terrorists, known as the "Merry Men". They are a band of disgruntled locals, who are fed up with the relentless development and commercialization of their beloved Florida.
The Merry Men and Their Cause
The Merry Men, led by Skip Wiley, a former journalist, have taken it upon themselves to rid Florida of its tourists. Their plan includes faking alligator attacks, releasing swarms of mosquitoes and even kidnapping the tourists. Their ultimate goal is to scare away all the tourists and return Florida to its natural state.
Keyes becomes fascinated by the Merry Men and their cause. He sees their point, but he doesn't agree with their methods. The detective also realizes that the group's actions are becoming increasingly dangerous and violent. He fears that the next step might be an actual massacre of innocent tourists.
The Chaos Unfolds
As Keyes tries to figure out a way to stop the Merry Men, chaos ensues. A series of bizarre events, including a failed alligator attack, a disastrous mosquito release, and a high-speed car chase, keep the plot moving at a breakneck pace. Keyes also finds himself in a complicated romance with a woman named Cleo, who has a connection to Skip Wiley.
In the midst of all this, the Merry Men escalate their campaign. They plan to blow up a bridge during rush hour, which will surely result in a massive loss of life. Keyes must act fast to prevent this disaster. He hatches a plan to infiltrate the Merry Men and stop the bridge bombing.
The Showdown and the Aftermath
Keyes' plan works, and he manages to stop the bombing. In the process, he also exposes the Merry Men's activities to the authorities. The Merry Men are arrested, and Skip Wiley is killed during a confrontation with the police. The group's reign of terror comes to an end.
In the aftermath, Florida returns to normal, with tourists flocking back to the state. However, the events have left a lasting impact on Keyes. He realizes that the Merry Men were a product of the locals' frustration with the rapid commercialization of their home. He also acknowledges that, like the Merry Men, he too has a love-hate relationship with Florida.
In conclusion, Tourist Season is a thrilling and thought-provoking novel that explores the complex relationship between man and nature, and the consequences of unchecked development. It's a wild ride through the eccentricities of Florida, with a cast of unforgettable characters and an unexpected, yet satisfying, conclusion.
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What is Tourist Season about?
Tourist Season by Carl Hiaasen is a darkly comedic novel that satirizes the obsession with tourism in Florida. When a group of eco-terrorists begins targeting tourists, it sets off a chain of events that brings together a colorful cast of characters including a deranged newspaper columnist, a former NFL player turned killer, and a vengeful ex-beauty queen. Hiaasen's sharp wit and clever storytelling make this book a thrilling and entertaining read.
Tourist Season Review
Tourist Season (1986) revolves around eco-terrorism in Florida and is a captivating read for those who enjoy a blend of mystery and dark humor. Here's why this book is definitely worth your time:
- Featuring a quirky cast of characters and a unique plot, it offers a refreshing take on the thriller genre.
- The novel masterfully juxtaposes environmental activism with satire, creating an intriguing narrative that keeps readers hooked.
- Its unexpected twists and turns ensure that boredom is never an option, delivering a thrilling and unpredictable reading experience.
Who should read Tourist Season?
Readers who enjoy dark humor and satire
People interested in environmental issues and conservation
Those who appreciate a fast-paced, quirky mystery with a unique setting
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Book summaries like Tourist Season
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Tourist Season FAQs
What is the main message of Tourist Season?
The main message of Tourist Season revolves around environmental activism and the impact of tourism on native habitats.
How long does it take to read Tourist Season?
Reading time for Tourist Season varies based on individual reading speed. The Blinkist summary can be read in just a few minutes.
Is Tourist Season a good book? Is it worth reading?
Tourist Season is worth reading for its engaging storytelling and insightful commentary on environmental issues, making it a compelling choice for readers.
Who is the author of Tourist Season?
The author of Tourist Season is Carl Hiaasen.
What to read after Tourist Season?
If you're wondering what to read next after Tourist Season, here are some recommendations we suggest:
- Feel the Fear and Do It Anyway by Susann Jeffers
- Blink by Malcolm Gladwell
- Outliers by Malcolm Gladwell
- Carrots and Sticks by Ian Ayres
- Nudge by Richard H. Thaler and Cass R. Sunstein
- Inspired by Marty Cagan
- The Tipping Point by Malcolm Gladwell
- Winning by Jack Welch with Suzy Welch
- The Happiness Project by Gretchen Rubin
- The 4-Hour Workweek by Tim Ferriss