Skinny Dip by Carl Hiaasen (1330 words)

Requirement: write a book report for the "Skinny Dip" by Carl Hiaasen, 4-5 pages, double space, normal margins. The book report should satisfy the following requirement:
I. Give a brief synopsis of the book. Include the major environmental themes and why you selected this novel/book. Don't retell the whole plot of the book. Just hit the main points.
II. Cite at least three concepts from class, Des Jardins or "The Future of Life" that are illustrated by or apply to situations in your book.
For example, a character may be in a situation where various aspects of normative morality (legal, religious, social sanctions) are tested. It could address issues such as carrying capacity, overpopulation, Gaia Theory, rational choice theory, biophila, etc. You could relate issues in the book to issues we have discussed: invasive species, ecological problems in various countries, liberal vs. conservative environmental views, etc.
III. Close with your "critique" of the book's message. What was the author trying to tell the reader? What did you gain from it?
Note: Quotes and descriptions from the book are useful, but don't over quote--I want your perceptions of the book. You don't have to go overboard on length for the synopsis--put your energy on your critique. Show me that you have read the book and thoughtfully considered the environmental ethical issues raised by it.

Skinny Dip is not an environmental book per se, but discusses the damage caused by fertilizers when they are not disposed of properly and dumped straight into a stream or river and the infiltration of economic development into coastal land. Chaz Perrone, the main character, is a marine biologist who is not exactly enamored with his profession and goes through the motions at work, where he is assigned to conduct environmental regulations for the state and discipline businesses violating air and water standards. Hiaasen states that “Charles Regis Perrone was a biologist by default” instead of a biologist because he loved the job (Hiaasen, p. 32). He only entered the profession because it provided him with a solid paycheck...

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