During a field trip to the Black Vine Swamp, the most feared teacher at Truman School vanishes. Could a bitter student be responsible for her disappearance? Find out in Scat by Carl Hiaasen.
Author: Carl Hiaasen
All the students at Truman School fear Mrs. Starch; she’s strict, mean and intimidating. No one would dare to challenge her, no one except Duane Scrod Jr. (also known as Smoke). Duane is a troubled kid, an outsider by choice. He has a reputation for setting fires on public property, hence the nickname Smoke. One day during Mrs. Starch’s biology class, Duane and the teacher butt heads. And the next day, Duane doesn’t show up for the class field trip to the Black Vine Swamp.
Black Vine Swamp
While touring the swamp, Nick Waters hopes to spot a panther. Although they’re an endangered species, there’s been rumors of a panther sighting in the area. But suddenly a forest fire erupts nearby and their field trip is cut short. As the students rush out of the forest, their teacher, Mrs. Starch, goes back into the swamp to retrieve a student’s inhaler. And that’s the last time Nick and his classmates see her.
Up in Smoke
News of their teacher’s disappearance spreads through the school like wildfire. The students don’t know whether to be happy or concerned. The school principal receives a letter explaining that Mrs. Starch is taking a leave of absence due to family issues. But no one has actually spoken to her since the field trip. What happened to Mrs. Starch when she went back into the swamp? Could the panther have gotten her, or the fire?
Delinquent Duane
A few days later, Nick spots a mysterious man driving his teacher’s Prius, with none other than Duane Scrod Jr. sitting in the passenger’s seat! Is Duane responsible for Mrs. Starch’s disappearance? Did he start the fire? With Duane’s history of setting fires, the police certainly think so.
The Bottom Line
The author of Hoot and Flush has delivered yet another gripping story. The mystery of Mrs. Starch’s disappearance will keep you glued to the book, searching for answers and wondering how all the pieces fit together. Scat is the perfect mystery for young adults.
Scat Rating:
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