Sick Puppy
A Novel
by Carl Hiaasen
Pan 1999
Easy read — content targets 9th–12th grade
Reading level 6.7 (6th grade) but themes aimed at ages 14+
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Genre
Themes
- environmental activism
- political corruption
- greed and power
- vigilante justice
- satire and dark humor
- justice vs. the system
- Florida noir
- consequences of development
About this book
In this sharp, satirical thriller set in Florida, eco-crusader Twilly Spree targets a careless litterbug and stumbles into a web of political corruption and shady development schemes. As he fights to protect a fragile island and its wildlife, Twilly’s offbeat tactics collide with powerful players who will do almost anything for profit. Fast-paced, funny, and biting, the story blends environmental themes with outrageous characters and high-stakes hijinks. Best for mature high school readers who enjoy edgy humor, social satire, and twisty capers.
Setting: contemporary Florida—Miami, Tallahassee, the Everglades, and a threatened Gulf Coast island
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Sick Puppy right for my child?
It depends — here's what to consider for Sick Puppy. The reading level is AR 6.7, which is typical for 6th grade. The interest level is rated Upper Grades (9–12), meaning the themes and content are designed for ages 14+ (9th–12th grade). Themes include environmental activism, political corruption, greed and power.
How long does it take to read Sick Puppy?
At a typical 6th grade reading pace, Sick Puppy takes around 13h to finish. The book has 135,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Sick Puppy have an AR quiz?
Yes — Sick Puppy has an AR quiz available, worth 18 points. Your child will need to take and pass the quiz through their school's Accelerated Reader program to earn credit. The quiz is typically 5–20 multiple choice questions about plot, characters, and setting.
What grade level is Sick Puppy?
Sick Puppy has an AR reading level of 6.7, which places it at a 6th grade reading difficulty. The interest level is rated Upper Grades (9–12) — this reflects the age-appropriateness of the content and themes, not just the reading difficulty. A strong younger reader may handle the words fine while the themes are aimed at an older audience, or vice versa.