Scat

This is Carl Hiaasen's third children's book that is set in Florida; has a four-letter word title and is an environmental adventure mystery. I have read all of these and am almost sure this is one is my favorite. The story revolves around the endangered panther. As with his other books, the antagonists do not respect the environment or the panther. They are out to make money at whatever the cost. Nick and Marta are curious about the disappearance of their teacher and they, along with a few other characters begin to uncover an illegal operation that threatens the life of a panther cub and her mother. These unique characters work together because of their love of nature and concern for an abandoned cub.

About the Florida Panther from the floridapanther.org web site: Historically, this subspecies roamed the entire southeastern United States, including Florida, Georgia, Alabama, Mississippi, Arkansas, and Louisiana. Currently, the only remaining population is in southwest Florida. Loss of habitat is one of the the main reasons for their decrease in population. About 100 cats remain in the Florida panther population. As recently as the early 1990s, only about 30 Florida panthers existed. Although the population has recovered somewhat, the Florida panther is still critically endangered.

How to Steal a Dog

Do you know what it feels like to live in a car? Or to be afraid to tell your best friend why she can't come over to play? This book is told in the voice of the main character, Georgina who lives with her mom and little brother in their car. She has come up with a plan to get some money so they can pay rent on an apartment. I suppose the cover of the book gives away her plan. It is a good story and I encourage you to read it and perhaps learn more about homelessness. SJV kids can make homelessness an issue to work on with your family or through our Public Achievement Issue groups this year.