A Stirring Ode to a Disappearing Florida
Florida’s fading wilds set the stage for Pete Clements’ The Last Floridian, a moving narrative that blends literary fiction with coming-of-age themes and environmental commentary.
The story follows Clayton Ian McIver, a 25-year-old son of a citrus farmer whose dreams of revitalizing the family business are derailed by the devastation of Greening disease, which has ravaged Florida’s agriculture. At his father’s urging, he sets off alone in a kayak on the St. Johns River, searching for clarity, direction, and a sense of purpose. Along his journey, Clayton witnesses the environmental decay of his homeland and the social collapse caused by unchecked development and over population, all while grappling with the painful realization that the Florida he loves is slowly disappearing. Running parallel to Clayton’s journey is the story of Joleen Rebecca Jackson, a rising country-soul singer whose strength and talent radiate through every performance. When Clayton hears her sing at The Lone Cabbage, something stirs in him. A quiet connection forms—two souls shaped by resilience and a desire for something enduring. Their paths intersect at a moment when both are seeking truth in a world that feels increasingly hollow, and their bond becomes a subtle but powerful thread of hope in the story’s landscape of decline.
Clements writes with both reverence and urgency, capturing the ecological fragility of Florida alongside the internal struggles of his characters. The story is timely and intimate, grounded in rich, immersive prose that blends introspective reflection with vivid portrayals of swamps, rivers, and open sky. Florida itself rises as a living, breathing presence—wounded, yet still pulsing with spirit. Clayton and Joleen are rendered with tenderness; their voices are honest, emotionally resonant, and unforgettable.
The Last Floridian is a hauntingly beautiful journey through broken roots, southern skies, and quiet resilience, thoughtfully written for those who value ecological awareness and character-driven storytelling. Moving and memorable, it’s a poignant reminder of what’s worth holding on to. 5 Stars!
