Books Like...
Just past the intriguing title of this novel, you find a charming tale narrated by four teenagers whose lives become entwined as they face unique challenges of living in Alaska in the 1970s. Ruth, Alyce, Dora, and Hank navigate friendship, love, loss, abuse, isolation, and dreams for a better future as they come to find that you don't have to be blood to be family. The prose flows beautifully through the pages, the descriptions of the landscape and the handling of cultural and background issues are utterly exquisite. A book to return to again and again, not only for the story but to marvel at its simple beauty.
Narrated by Jorjeana Marie, Erin Tripp, Karissa Vacker, and Robbie Daymond. This work is a love letter to life in Alaska and its people, good and bad. The author lived and worked there for many years. You get the sense of being suffocated in a small town yet being fully of the wilderness and wide open spaces. Bonus points for finding an actress who's an Alaska Native to read Dora's story.
If you liked The Smell of Other People's Houses, here are the top 23 books to read next:
'Two Old Women' by Velma Wallis is a touching story about two elderly women who are abandoned by their tribe in the harsh Alaskan winter. Despite being left behind, the women decide to survive and thrive, showcasing resilience, independence, and the strength of the human spirit. The plot focuses on themes of aging, friendship, survival, and the value society places on older individuals. Written in a simple and direct prose style, the book provides a powerful message about not underestimating the capabilities of older people and the importance of self-reliance.
'Two Old Women' is based on an indigenous legend about the strength and courage of women, set in a tribal society facing challenging circumstances. The story highlights the transformation of the two old women as they learn new survival skills, gain self-esteem, and ultimately earn respect and independence. The author, Velma Wallis, beautifully captures the essence of the human spirit through this tale of survival and empowerment, shedding light on the resilience and wisdom of older generations.
The air stretched tight, quiet and cold over the vast land. Tall spruce branches hung heavily laden with snow, awaiting distant spring winds. The frosted willows seemed to tremble in the freezing temp...- #2
Save:'Coming Into the Country' by John McPhee is a captivating exploration of Alaska through the eyes of diverse individuals living in the region. McPhee intricately weaves together stories of gold miners, fishermen, and residents of small villages, shedding light on the unique challenges and adventures faced in the Last Frontier. The book delves into Alaskan history, including the era of the pipeline construction in the 1970s, while also highlighting the natural beauty and wildlife of the region. McPhee's writing style is described as conversational, engaging, and informative, offering readers a glimpse into the complexities of life in Alaska.
Paddling again, we move down long pools separated by short white pitches, looking to see whatever might appear in the low hills, in the cottonwood, in the white and black spruce—and in the river, too.... - #3
Save:'The Cremation of Sam McGee' by Robert W. Service is a classic poem that has left a lasting impact on many readers. The poem follows the story of a prospector named Sam McGee in the Yukon during the early 1900s. The vivid imagery, captivating tempo, and memorable lines of the poem have resonated with readers of all ages. The book is beautifully illustrated, enhancing the reading experience and capturing the spirit of the north. Many readers have fond memories of this poem being recited to them by family members, creating a nostalgic connection to the work.
- #4
Save:Set in a remote town in Alaska, 'Thin Ice' follows Beth Rivers, a well-known author who escapes from her past trauma to Benedict after being kidnapped by a fan. The story revolves around Beth's journey of healing and coping with fear while getting involved in solving a mysterious death and disappearance in the town. The narrative is gripping, intense, and filled with quirky characters who add intrigue to the murder mystery and mayhem that Beth finds herself entangled in.
The book captures the stark terror and intense emotions Beth experiences as she navigates through recovering from a traumatic attack and imprisonment. The Alaskan setting with its unpredictable weather adds to the overall atmosphere of the story, creating a sense of tension and suspense. Through the character of Beth and the engaging plot, author Paige Shelton delivers a fast-paced and riveting tale that keeps readers on edge and eager to uncover the mysteries hidden within the small town of Benedict.
- #5
Save:'Alaska' by James A. Michener is a sweeping historical novel that covers the colorful history of Alaska from ancient times to the present day. The narrative weaves together the tales of various characters, from mastodons and woolly mammoths to Eskimos, Russians, gold rushers, and modern settlers. Through vivid storytelling, Michener explores the struggles of man against nature, the colonization of Alaska, and the exploitation of its valuable resources, offering a rich and absorbing narrative that captures the adventurous spirit of the land.
provides a detailed overview of Alaska's history, from prehistoric times to the recent past, with a focus on the struggles and triumphs of the people who have inhabited this vast and rugged land. Michener's writing style combines fictional storytelling with historical facts, creating an engaging and informative read that delves into the complexities of Alaska's development and the challenges faced by its inhabitants over the centuries.
The route he would take had been available for the past two thousand years, and although some had used the bridge, they had not found it inviting. Across its six-hundred-mile width north to south hars... - #6
Save:'To The Bright Edge of the World' by Eowyn Ivey is an epistolary novel that follows the journey of an Army colonel leading an expedition to explore a remote river in Alaska in 1885. The story is told through reports, diaries, magazine articles, photos, and letters, providing a captivating narrative of the challenges faced by the explorers and the experiences of the colonel's young wife back at Fort Vancouver. The book incorporates elements of magical realism, grounded in myth and legend, creating a beautiful and haunting tale of human endurance in the Alaskan wilderness.
The novel also delves into the themes of gender roles, the beauty and harshness of the Alaskan landscape, and the psychological limits of individuals facing the unknown. Through diary entries, letters, and newspaper clippings, readers are transported to a world of ice canyons, darkrooms, and mystical encounters, immersing them in a richly detailed and evocative story of exploration and self-discovery.
I do not know the time. The depths of night. It may already be tomorrow. I cannot see my own words, but write as I can by moonlight so as to record my first thoughts. In the morning I may deem it outl... - #7
Save:'A Cold Day For Murder' by Dana Stabenow follows the story of Kate Shugak, a native Alaskan ex-policewoman who is enlisted to help find a missing park ranger and investigator in the icy wilderness of Alaska. As Kate navigates through the Alaskan landscape, interacting with the natives, oil workers, and other characters, she unravels a mystery that involves family ties, hidden motives, and the harsh realities of life in the Alaskan wilderness. The setting of the national park in Alaska adds an intriguing aspect to the story, with a mix of cultural references and a list of interconnected characters that keep the plot engaging and the reader on their toes.
The narrative style of the book is described as smooth and easy to read, with a focus on character development and the Alaskan setting. The protagonist, Kate Shugak, is portrayed as a strong and appealing character with a brusque nature, making her interactions with others and her investigative journey through Alaska both compelling and enjoyable. The plot unfolds with red herrings, unexpected twists, and a unique ending that leaves readers intrigued and eager to delve into the next novel in the series.
They came out of the south late that morning on a black-and-silver Ski-doo LT. The driver had thick eyebrows and a thicker beard and a lush fur ruff around his hood, all rimmed with frost from the moi... - #8
Save:In 'Small Things Like These' by Claire Keegan, set in 1985 in a small Irish town, readers follow the story of Bill Furlong, a coal and timber merchant, as he navigates through a time of economic uncertainty and societal pressures. When Bill uncovers a disturbing secret at a local convent, he is faced with a moral dilemma that challenges his values and sense of justice. Keegan's writing style is described as poignant, evocative, and deeply moving, drawing readers into the emotional journey of Bill Furlong and the complexities of the era.
In October there were yellow trees. Then the clocks went back the hour and the long November winds came in and blew, and stripped the trees bare. In the town of New Ross, chimneys threw out smoke whic... 'The Sun Is a Compass' by Caroline Van Hemert is a memoir of her incredible journey covering over 4,000 miles from Washington state to northern Alaska through hiking, skiing, and pack rafting. As a field biologist, Van Hemert intertwines her personal experiences with her scientific research, particularly focusing on migration patterns. The narrative captures the challenges and close calls faced by the author during her adventurous expedition, making it an engaging and inspiring read for those interested in wilderness exploration and personal growth.
I haven’t always loved the outdoors. But as a kid growing up in Alaska, there was no escaping its offerings or denying the fact that the forty-ninth state, with its coarse manners and vast acreage, wa...- #10
Save:The Frozen River by Ariel Lawhon is a fictionalized tale based on Martha Ballard's actual diaries, showcasing the challenges faced by women in 18th Century America. The story revolves around Martha, a courageous and resilient midwife, as she navigates through a world of corrupt officials, biased laws, and the harsh realities of life for women during that era. The plot unfolds with the discovery of a frozen body in the Kennebuc River, leading Martha to investigate a murder while also shedding light on the legal and social historical background of the time. The author's writing style immerses the reader into the community, making it easy to visualize the scenes and characters, ultimately creating a captivating and insightful narrative.
