Florida, often referred to as the Sunshine State, has been a vibrant backdrop for many captivating novels.
The state’s unique blend of stunning landscapes, complex history, and diverse cultures has inspired writers to explore its multifaceted character.
From the haunting beauty of the Everglades to the bustling nightlife of Miami, Florida’s eclectic settings have provided the perfect canvas for stories of survival, romance, crime, and self-discovery.
Here is a selection of novels that beautifully capture the spirit and intrigue of Florida.
Pat Frank’s “Alas, Babylon” stands as one of the defining novels of the Cold War era.
Set in the fictional small town of Fort Repose, Florida, this post-apocalyptic narrative unfolds in the aftermath of a nuclear war.
With stark realism, Frank paints a picture of a community pushed to the brink of survival.
It is a gripping tale about the resilience of the human spirit, and the state of Florida serves as both a refuge and a challenging environment that tests the limits of its characters.
Set in the early 20th century, “Their Eyes Were Watching God” is Zora Neale Hurston’s most renowned work.
It tells the story of Janie Crawford and her journey to self-realization amid the African American communities of Central and South Florida.
The novel is famed for its rich portrayal of Black life and culture, and its vivid descriptions of the state’s natural environment play a pivotal role in shaping Janie’s experiences and ultimate wisdom.
Carl Hiaasen’s “Tourist Season” is a witty, satirical thriller that takes a jab at the tourism industry’s impact on Florida.
This comedic crime novel showcases Hiaasen’s talent for capturing the zany and often surreal atmosphere that sometimes pervades the state.
Through its ensemble of eccentric characters and a twisting plot, “Tourist Season” presents a side of Florida that is both entertaining and thought-provoking.
Ernest Hemingway’s “To Have and Have Not” is the riveting story of Harry Morgan, a fishing boat captain who gets involved in illegal activities in Key West during the Great Depression.
Hemingway’s sharp prose and the dynamic characters of the Florida Keys create a tense atmosphere in this classic tale of survival and moral ambiguity.
“Orange Crush” is a political satire and zany thriller rolled into one.
Tim Dorsey’s rollicking narrative sets out on a campaign trail across Florida, capturing the peculiarities of state politics.
With an over-the-top plot and a cast of outrageous characters, the novel offers an exaggerated but amusing reflection of Florida’s political climate.
Intended for a younger audience, “Because of Winn-Dixie” by Kate DiCamillo is a heartwarming story about a young girl named Opal who discovers the joys and hardships of life in a small Florida town.
With her newfound dog, Winn-Dixie, Opal learns about friendship, community, and forgiveness, showcasing the tenderness and charm that can be found in Florida’s less traveled roads.
“Cadillac Beach” continues Tim Dorsey’s tradition of combining humor and crime in the Florida setting.
This novel follows the eccentric protagonist Serge A. Storms as he delves into a mystery linked to his grandfather’s past in Miami Beach.
Full of historical references and wacky escapades, “Cadillac Beach” brings a unique blend of comedy and intrigue to the Florida literary landscape.
John D. MacDonald’s “The Deep Blue Good-by” introduces readers to Travis McGee, a self-described “beach bum” and “salvage consultant” who lives aboard a houseboat in Fort Lauderdale.
The novel is the first in a series that combines hard-boiled detective fiction with the laid-back appeal of Florida’s coastal waterways, capturing the state’s paradoxical nature.
“Rum Punch,” a crime novel by Elmore Leonard, is set in West Palm Beach and centers around a flight attendant caught between the feds and a ruthless arms dealer.
Leonard’s snappy dialogue and compelling portrayal of Florida’s underbelly make this novel a must-read for fans of the crime genre.
Although “Midnight Cowboy” is primarily known for its New York City setting, the novel by James Leo Herlihy begins in the protagonist Joe Buck’s hometown in Texas and makes notable stops in Florida.
The Sunshine State serves as a transient point that fundamentally impacts Joe’s journey, reflecting the transient nature of some of Florida’s own residents and visitors.