Chomp

Hiaasen turns his satirical talents to an examination of the entertainment industry in this novel exploring the truth behind reality TV series. Wahoo's dad is an animal wrangler, with a zoo full of exotic creatures from alligators to monkeys to parrots. But when he takes a job working on a reality show alongside star Derek Badger, who is famous for using his apparently incredible survival skills in the face of great danger, Wahoo soon discovers TV is not all it seems. On the first day on location, chaos ensues - and add in Wahoo's schoolfriend Tuna, on the run from an abusive father, and suddenly everyone's survival is threatened.

Fans of Carl Hiaasen's work will be familiar with his distinctive sense of humour and penetrating eye for human failings. This lively adventure story set in the Florida Everglades is hugely entertaining, but also thought-provoking, addressing some serious social issues.