Contemplative / Melancholic / Nostalgic / Bittersweet

The Smell of Other People's Houses by Bonnie-Sue Hitchcock is praised for its poignant storytelling and vivid portrayal of 1970s Alaska. Critics commend its rich atmospheric detail and deep character exploration. Some find the narrative structure complex due to multiple perspectives, but overall, it captivates with emotional depth and a strong sense of place.

A reader who enjoys The Smell of Other People's Houses likely appreciates intricately woven narratives, coming-of-age stories, and evocative settings. Fans of Louise Erdrich's The Round House or Jandy Nelson's I'll Give You the Sun would find the novel's exploration of interconnected lives in 1970s Alaska appealing.

The Smell of Other People's Houses by Bonnie-Sue Hitchcock explores the interconnected lives of four adolescents in Alaska during the 1970s. The narrative addresses themes of family, identity, and survival as the characters navigate personal challenges and the impact of their pasts on their futures.

- The Smell Of Other People's Houses is set in Alaska during the 1970s, providing a unique backdrop that reflects the state's rich cultural and historical tapestry.
- Bonnie-Sue Hitchcock, the author, grew up in Fairbanks, Alaska, and her personal experiences significantly influence the authenticity and vividness of the setting in the novel.
- The book received a nomination for the Carnegie Medal, highlighting its critical acclaim and recognition within the literary community.

**Ruth**  
A teenage girl nearing 17, who begins the story dealing with her stern Catholic grandmother's household, reflecting on family loss and the restrictive values imposed on her.

**Dora**  
A 16-year-old Inupiat girl navigating familial disruption and trauma, living with her friend's family while dealing with her complex emotions related to her past experiences.

**Alyce**  
A 16-year-old who dreams of going to dance school, torn between her aspirations and helping her father with commercial fishing, a conflict reflecting her journey to self-discovery.

**Hank**  
A 17-year-old boy traveling with his brothers as they escape a turbulent home life, developing an empathetic connection with another character while coping with familial loss.

Bonnie-Sue Hitchcock

Novel

Fiction

Guide

Study Guide

Before You Read

Explore The Smell Of Other People's Houses reviews, reading age recommendations, and essential genre and thematic details before you start reading.

Before You Read The Smell Of Other People's Houses | SuperSummary

title

content

Overview

Get ready to explore The Smell Of Other People's Houses and its meaning. Our full analysis and study guide provides an even deeper dive with character analysis and quotes explained to help you discover the complexity and beauty of this book.

The Smell Of Other People's Houses Summary and Study Guide

Background

The Smell Of Other People's Houses Background

chapter

chapterType

section

Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Part 1: “Spring”

Prologue-Part 1

The Smell Of Other People's Houses Prologue-Part 1 Summary & Analysis

Part 2: “Spring”

Part 2, Chapters 3-7

The Smell Of Other People's Houses Part 2, Chapters 3-7 Summary & Analysis

Part 2, Chapters 8-12

The Smell Of Other People's Houses Part 2, Chapters 8-12 Summary & Analysis

Part 3: “Fall”

Part 3 The Smell Of Other People's Houses Part 3 Summary & Analysis

Part 4: “Winter”

Part 4 The Smell Of Other People's Houses Part 4 Summary & Analysis

character

Character Analysis

The Smell Of Other People's Houses Character Analysis

theme

Themes

The Smell Of Other People's Houses Themes

Symbols & Motifs

The Smell Of Other People's Houses Symbols & Motifs

quote

citation

Important Quotes

The Smell Of Other People's Houses Important Quotes

primaryCharacter

Essay Topics

The Smell Of Other People's Houses Essay Topics

The Smell Of Other People's Houses

Before You Read

Super Short Summary

Reviews & Readership

Review Roundup

Who Should Read The Smell Of Other People's Houses?

Reading Age

Book Details