AN Empty House Doesn't Sneeze
Publication Date: 3 September 2024
Genre: MG/YA Coming of Age Adventure / Historical Fiction
Book Description:
An Empty House Doesn’t Sneeze, recipient of the Literary Titan Gold Book Award, renders life on the home front through the watchful eyes of 15-year-old Scotty Johannsen as WWII rages across the globe. Against the backdrop of blackouts, bomb shelters, rationing, and victory gardens, Scotty and his friends follow the rhythms of yesteryear, weaving their wartime worries through the “wilds” of Seattle’s Ravenna Park, where their imaginations run free.
Into this fragile balance a neighborhood threat emerges: Someone is lighting fires during the mandatory blackouts. Scotty, whose father is an air raid warden, is soon caught up in the firebug mystery and tries to smoke the arsonist out. When the local bully throws suspicion on Scotty’s draft-age brother, and when even his best friend’s actions don’t seem to add up, Scotty must navigate a moral and ethical thicket while treading a path toward maturity. Even as scarcity slips into every nook and cranny, An Empty House Doesn’t Sneeze celebrates a youthful spirit and hearkens to simple pleasures, where free time and family abound.
David Scott Richardson’s An Empty House Doesn’t Sneeze is a work of historical fiction set in 1943 in the Pacific Northwest. A heartwarming and playful coming-of-age adventure, this novel is suitable for MG/YA and the young at heart. It contains no gratuitous language, but there are a few slurs that are true to the historical setting and swear words—in keeping with the characters and story.
SUMMARY
In a literary landscape saturated with World War II narratives, David Scott Richardson’s An Empty House Doesn’t Sneeze offers a refreshingly unique perspective. Set in 1943 Seattle, this novel invites readers to experience the war through the eyes of 15-year-old Scotty Johannsen, far from the frontlines but not immune to the conflict’s far-reaching effects. As I turned the pages, I found myself drawn into a world where air raid sirens and blackouts coexist with the timeless struggles of adolescence, creating a tapestry of both historical significance and coming-of-age charm.
The story follows Scotty as he navigates life during wartime, grappling with blackouts, rationing and the ever-present fear of loss. While he doesn’t directly confront the horrors of war, its influence permeates his everyday life—whether through the absence of loved ones or the uncertainty that shadows his childhood. The looming threat of an arsonist igniting fires during mandatory blackouts adds tension to an already precarious environment.
As suspicion falls on Scotty’s older brother, who is draft-age, the narrative deepens, exploring themes of loyalty and moral complexity. Throughout this journey, Richardson effectively balances light-hearted moments with poignant reflections on friendship, sacrifice and the innocence of youth.
MY THOUGHTS
Reading this book was a nostalgic journey that transported me back to a time filled with both innocence and uncertainty. Richardson’s portrayal of Scotty is relatable; he embodies the struggles of adolescence while grappling with the realities of a world at war. The setting in Seattle provides a fresh perspective on WWII narratives often dominated by more conventional battlefront stories.
The character development is commendable, particularly Scotty’s interactions with his siblings and friends. Their playful banter and innocent explorations contrast sharply with the serious undertones of their environment. I appreciated how Richardson skilfully interwove humour into the narrative, making it an engaging read despite its somber themes. Moments where Scotty and his friends engage in whimsical discussions about girls or their fishing adventures add levity to an otherwise heavy context.
However, I found the pacing a bit slow initially as the author took time to establish the setting and characters. While this approach effectively builds tension and immerses readers in wartime life, it may challenge some readers seeking immediate action. Nevertheless, these early chapters are among the most enriching as they lay a solid foundation for understanding the characters’ emotional landscapes.
The writing is mostly engaging and easy to read, but there are moments—especially in conversations involving Scotty’s parents—where the dialogue lacks some vibrancy. These instances felt less authentic compared to interactions among Scotty and his peers. However, these moments are infrequent and do not significantly impact overall enjoyment.
Overall, An Empty House Doesn’t Sneeze is a heartfelt coming-of-age story that resonates with readers of all ages. It successfully blends historical context with personal growth, making it an excellent choice for those interested in World War II narratives or young adult fiction. I would definitely recommend this novel for its unique perspective and engaging storytelling.
VERDICT
Rating: 4 Stars
Source: Author
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