An Empty House Doesn’t Sneeze

Nostalgic and heartfelt, An Empty House Doesn’t Sneeze by David Scott Richardson is a 1940s historical fiction novel ideal for young adults. Told through the youthful, vibrant eyes of fifteen-year-old Scotty Johannsen, readers explore his internal struggles with the reasoning behind war, America’s role in this turmoil, and how to come to terms with the sacrifices and tragedies of these situations.

Carefree and light-hearted, Scotty and his friends (like most young boys) are mainly interested in looking at girls, playing outside, delicious cookies, and their nightly paper routes. Unfortunately for them, the backdrop of World War II America thwarts the complete pursuit of these small pleasures. Forced to mature quickly amidst routine nightly blackouts, taking cover in bomb shelters, rationing delicious food, and growing victory gardens, the boys are no strangers to the sacrifices happening within their community. Their televisions, neighbors, friends, teachers, and family all speak of war.

Neither ignorant nor fully educated, Scotty is unsure how to react to the developing news being thrown at him. Not to mention, his older brother Erik does not agree with war, while his father, an air raid warden, has a clear differing opinion. In this scene, full of conflicting and sometimes confusing information, Scotty begins to develop his own opinions and ideologies, asking the question of why war even exists.

As a key component of this novel, I appreciated how Richardson developed Scotty’s character. Portraying the internal dialogue of a teenager in war, this novel gave a great insight into their possible personal and familial struggles during this period. Showcasing possible disagreements and tensions, readers can see how fragile relationships can be amongst such upheaval and the weight a teenager may have carried navigating such complexity.

As the story continues, some strange things start to happen in Scotty’s neighborhood. Someone is intentionally lighting fires during routine blackouts. A mystery to all. Who is this culprit and why are they doing this? Do they not know the possible danger they are inflicting? With multiple suspects in line, mysterious notes, scary threats, and school bullies, Scotty makes it his personal quest to find his town’s arsonist, and more importantly, stop them!

Relaxing and enjoyable, this novel would be ideal for ten+ aged boys who enjoy wartime novels. A fun plot, full of mischief and camaraderie, this age group would best relate to Scotty, as well as enjoy his neighborhood escapades and boyhood stories!