With a distinct sense of humor and a flare for the unusual, Carl Hiaasen has dissected the psyche of South Florida to write several wickedly funny books for both kids and adults. His first book for kids, Hoot, won a Newbery Honor and was later adapted into a movie of the same name. His extensive collection of books for adults are notable for their environmental themes and characters that do justice to the word "eccentric." Hiaasen's popular books include Bad Monkey, Scat, Double Whammy, Flush and Skinny Dip among others. He is an award–winning columnist for the Miami Herald and lives in Vero Beach.