Carl Hiaasen

Carl Hiaasen is an accomplished American novelist, well-known for his thriller and crime fiction novels aimed at both adults and young adults. A prominent theme in all of his work is the unique setting of Florida, a place that he clearly holds in high regard. Hiaasen's deep connection to the Sunshine State can be traced back to his birth and upbringing there. He was born in Plantation, Florida on March 12, 1953, and by the age of six, he had already decided that he wanted to become a writer. His parents supported his dream and bought him a typewriter, which he mainly used to write sports stories.

In addition to being a successful author, Hiaasen is also a highly regarded journalist. After graduating from the University of Florida, he began his career at the Miami Herald as a general assignment reporter. He later went on to work for the newspaper’s weekly magazine and prize-winning investigations team. As a journalist and author, Hiaasen has spent much of his life advocating for the protection of the Florida Everglades, a cause that is close to his heart. He and his family currently reside in southern Florida.

Hiaasen's career as a novelist began in the early 1980s when he started writing crime fiction. Over the years, he has expanded his repertoire to include children's books, and he has also published several works of non-fiction. Despite his success in multiple genres, Hiaasen's love for Florida remains a constant thread throughout all of his work. His deep connection to the state and its unique landscapes, wildlife, and people shines through in every story he tells.