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Like most such serially written books, Naked Came the Manatee starts out strong, but as it progresses, each previous writer is more and more likely to write the next one into a corner. In some such stories, the ending is a foregone conclusion, so the writers needn't struggle too much to assure that the assassination is foiled, the lovers are united, etc., but something that starts with an open ending, like this book, paradoxically creates more troubles for writers and readers. For example, Carl Hiassen, the final writer, finishes more by undoing, sometimes cleverly, sometimes gracelessly, many of the previous complications and even characterizations.

That said, all the writers know and love/hate/mostly love southern Florida and capture its crazy and corrupt essence. The manatee is an endearing protagonist and the story is full of McGuffins of all kinds.

Overall, though, the individual writers are more satisfying as individuals, and this book more as a curiosity than a story.