The Smell of Other People's Houses

Reviewed by: Sheila Dube - Springvale Public Library, Springvale, Southern Maine Library District

Review Date: June 23, 2016

Review

This satisfying debut novel, by a native Alaskan, will challenge the romantic views that pervade literature about Alaska. The focus of the story is on four young adults living in Alaska, right after it becomes a State in 1963, who find their difficult and diverse lives intertwine as they each seek family connections, forgiveness and hope. Themes of poverty, grief, alcoholism, mental illness and teen pregnancy are explored through a multiple cast of characters in the demanding harshness of Alaska. Hitchcock's settings and details of the interrelationships between nature, human survival and tradition bring a richness to this compact novel. Looking forward to seeing more from this author.

Overall Book Score: excellent