When deciding whether to read a book, Carl Hiaasen suggests an unconventional approach: instead of starting from the first page, he flips to a random spot in the middle and assesses its quality there. This method allows him to quickly gauge if the content holds his interest.
Hiaasen's advice challenges traditional notions about how one should engage with literature. By bypassing the polished opening chapters that often result from meticulous editing and revision, Hiaasen can get a genuine sense of the book’s style and voice as it flows naturally. This approach reflects an understanding that some books may not hook readers right away but might captivate them once they delve deeper into their narrative or themes. It also suggests a preference for authentic writing over overly refined beginnings that might mask what lies beneath.
Carl Hiaasen, the author of this quote, is a renowned American novelist and journalist known for his humorous and often satirical take on crime in Florida. His work frequently critiques societal issues through engaging and witty narratives.
