Tourist Season
by Carl Hiaasen
Hachette UK 2024
Easy read — content targets 9th–12th grade
Reading level 6.2 (6th grade) but themes aimed at ages 14+
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Genre
Themes
- satire
- crime and justice
- corruption and greed
- environmental extremism
- media sensationalism
- power of journalism
- community vs. profit
- Florida weirdness
About this book
A darkly funny crime caper set in sun-soaked Miami, Tourist Season follows a reporter-turned-private eye who uncovers a string of bizarre murders that threaten Florida’s all-important tourism industry. Hiaasen blends mystery, satire, and outrageous characters into a fast-paced story with sharp humor. It’s a great fit for mature high school readers who enjoy twisty plots and social commentary. Teens are drawn to the wild Florida setting, over-the-top antics, and the way the clues snap together without giving everything away.
Setting: Miami and South Florida, contemporary (late 20th century)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Tourist Season right for my child?
It depends — here's what to consider for Tourist Season. The reading level is AR 6.2, 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 satire, crime and justice, corruption and greed.
How long does it take to read Tourist Season?
At a typical 6th grade reading pace, Tourist Season takes around 11h to finish. The book has 118,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Tourist Season have an AR quiz?
Yes — Tourist Season has an AR quiz available, worth 16 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 Tourist Season?
Tourist Season has an AR reading level of 6.2, 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.