The Man Who Invented Florida: A Doc Ford Novel (Doc Ford Novels, 3)

As a historian who loves a good Florida story, this Randy Wayne White novel really tickled my funny bone. I was not at all put off that it was not a "typical" White novel, but enjoyed every minute of its bizarre twists and turns, its leg-pullin' blended with understandings of Florida's environmental systems. I found it captivating from start to finish. Having waded into the heart of the Fakahatchee Strand, slogged through mangrove swamps in Tampa Bay, and searched Florida archives, I can relate to much of White's tale. This is probably not a book for city-slickers, but by reading it Florida's northern transplants might learn a few lessons as to why Florida is so incredible.

One of Randy Wayne Wright's best books! It is very different from his other books and that is part of what makes it so good. A must read!!

I stopped reading the Doc Ford novels after a while because, despite being top of the line Florida thrillers, the histrionic violence and action just got to be too much. Now I find myself wishing RWW would write more stories like The Man Who Invented Florida. This is the one that transcends the genre to become excellent mainstream literature. If you're looking for an action flick in novel form, this is not it. If you're looking for a beautiful, affecting story, you found one.

I've read nearly all of RW White's books now and most are a terrific roaring read, but nothing that you would call 'a great novel'. This one is. The characters are complex and well-drawn, the story profound and moving, and yet it's written with a very light touch. It reminded me of A Confederacy of Dunces, it was that good.

OK, OK...Doc Ford may not be the main character in this novel, but I know a bit more about him after reading about his childhood and getting to know Tucker. I enjoyed reading this book and had a hard time putting it down once I started.