Hoot critical essays

Published in 2002, Hoot was awarded the Newbery Medal of Honor and was praised for its witty, satirical voice; quirky characters; and humorous point of view.

Reviewers agree that this book is filled with “dollups of humor,” “offbeat characters,” and “comic twists” that make it a fun read. It is written in simple yet humorous prose but might pose some difficulties and confusions to readers as it cuts between characters quite frequently, sometimes several times within one chapter.

Beatrice was tough to Roy at first, but it was to protect her brother’s secrecy; later she defends Roy from further attacks by Dana Matherson. This tale is intercut with the story of an empty plot of land that is soon to feature a Mother Paula’s All-American Pancake House.

Hoot opens as Roy Eberhardt is bullied on the bus on his way to middle school in Florida.