I used to read a syndicated newspaper column penned by Dave Barry, and I fondly remember his brand of humor. In this book, written in 2016, he humorously and satirically captures my newly adopted home state of Florida in a most entertaining fashion.
Florida is known for attracting weirdness, and Barry chooses to visit and describe some places that are not only unusual but also provide outsiders with multiple opportunities to poke fun. While reading about Barry’s experiences, one can’t help but wonder whether there has been any logic or forethought in the development of some of Florida’s best-known communities and attractions.
I think some of the best comments in the book have to do with why people move to Florida in the first place, primarily sunshine and low taxes. I have many relatives who live in New York, and I appreciate Barry’s willingness to tell them to “shut up” about how wonderful New York is, especially when they have freely chosen to spend so much time in Florida. I also liked the section about Dave Shealy and how he lives the rough life of hunting and fishing in the Florida Everglades. The tales of the skunk ape are hysterically funny and so apropos to Florida mythology. The contrasts between Dave and the highrise areas where New Yorkers live show not only the new and old Florida but also the range of lifestyles still present as one travels from place to place in the large, diverse state of Florida.
The chapters about Key West, its bars numbering one for almost every citizen, and clothes-optional establishments exemplify the regulation-free mentality for which Florida is known. Regarding contempt for legal oversight, the chapter called “Lock and Load” about a place in Miami where one can rent machine guns and other war weapons probably rounds out Florida’s well-deserved reputation for being remiss about reasonable safety provisions.
Having experienced the Villages and observing some of the same things Barry did, I think some of his remarks are spot-on. Many retirees seek and find this Disney for adults, and the family that governs the Villages has undoubtedly produced a lucrative attraction. Speaking of attractions I have visited, Barry reports with great levity and honesty as he rates some wild and crazy places such as Gatorland and Spongearoma. Although they are still on my to-do list, I expect to have similar joy and cynicism as I plan to spend some future days at Weeki Wachee and Cassadaga. I don’t think I’ll ever step foot in LIV, the expensive, pretentious nightclub in Miami. I’ll believe his description and leave that for the younger crowd.
All in all, Dave Barry does a great job with his tongue-in-cheek defense of his home state.
