# Lucky You

By Carl Hiaasen

Profile: https://hahafiction.com/books/lucky-you-610cc364/

A lottery win gives JoLayne Lucks a chance to protect Florida habitat. Two militia enthusiasts would rather keep the whole prize, so they steal her ticket. With reporter Tom Krome’s help, she goes after the thieves and the money she has plans for.

## What makes it funny?

The militia members have grand political ambitions and a sideline in petty cheating, including fake disability-parking permits and lobster poaching. Nearby Grange has its own business model: tourists drawn by dubious religious miracles.

### The comedy at work

Hiaasen follows declarations of belief back to the small schemes behind them. Political fervor and religious spectacle offer cover for people trying to get something for themselves, leaving their self-importance exposed to ridicule.

### Try this if…

Environmental stakes give this crime caper a motive beyond getting rich. It may suit readers who enjoy crooked schemes and satire aimed at racist extremists and religious profiteers. Book-group readers also name Lucky You in funny-fiction recommendations.

### Good to know

Expect racist villains, armed violence and raunchy material. An Entertainment Weekly review quoted on Hiaasen’s site found the sustained comic exaggeration tiring, a useful reservation if you prefer quieter comedy.

## What to expect

- Genre: Crime & thriller
- On the shelf: Crime caper
- Kind of humor: Farce · Satire
- The atmosphere: Irreverent
- Format: Novel
- Published: 1997

## A few distinguishing details

- A stolen lottery ticket puts a habitat-preservation plan at risk.

## Sources & further reading

- Publisher: [Publisher](https://www.hachettebookgroup.com/titles/carl-hiaasen/lucky-you/9780446695657)
- Review: [Publishers Weekly review](https://www.publishersweekly.com/9780679454441)
- Author commentary: [Author book page](https://carlhiaasen.com/books/lucky-you)
- Reader discussion: [Reader discussion](https://facebook.com/groups/TwoGirlsMustReads/permalink/1699321627533655)