Eric Gansworth's book, If I Ever Get Out of Here, takes place in 1970's Niagara Falls, Buffalo, USA. The main story takes place on the Aboriginal reserve, the local school, the military living base, and briefly, Toronto, Canada. The reserve is a tight-knit group of aboriginal people living in poor conditions, together. Since their land is limited, they all know and support each other, and disregard rules of those outside the reserve. The reserve's main field is where the fair takes place, and the game of fireball. There are also bonfires in this vicinity, so there is a strong sense of community in this area. Lewis, Carson, and Albert, among others, live on the reserve. Much of the story takes place at Lewis' home. His house is not very livable at all. Between the described caving roof, lack of running water, and exposed insulation, it's obvious the family's living conditions are underfunded, even unsafe. There are many people living in a single - floored house, with limited budget for things like a bathtub, a new carpet, or matching chairs. They are literally living in the ruins of a past house. Lewis spends a lot of time in shared bedroom, listening to records, reading, and talking to his uncle and roommate, Albert. It is in the same condition as the rest of the house: exposed walls, broken windows, blackened ceilings. (Read More to the right) | http://bit.ly/1E5Lk2D |
A large portion of this story takes place at school, whether it be setting the schoolyard, shop class, the office, or music class. The school seems underfunded, since it relies so heavily on donations. It can't be a very large school either, since many of the students know each other.
The group of houses set aside for military-involved families is also a separate community. It is similar to the reserve in the way that everyone is familiar with each other. With its own store and very similar houses, it is almost a separate suburbia than the rest of the town.
George's house is the same as the others on the military base. Only slightly lived in and very clean, it is a mixture of sharp edges and plush carpet. With an extensive record collection and a functioning roof, Lewis really enjoys spending time here.
Toronto is large and unfamiliar in this story. It is full of different ethical food stands and businesses the main characters have never encountered, such as Sam the Man franchises and Chinese food. Only as small portion if the city is explored during the story, mostly main streets, a hotel, and the Maple Leaf Gardens Arena. This arena is the setting for the Wings Across America concert tour. This is a pivotal point in the book, where Lewis and George really confirm and strengthen their friendship and Lewis is opened up to so many new experiences and memories.
The group of houses set aside for military-involved families is also a separate community. It is similar to the reserve in the way that everyone is familiar with each other. With its own store and very similar houses, it is almost a separate suburbia than the rest of the town.
George's house is the same as the others on the military base. Only slightly lived in and very clean, it is a mixture of sharp edges and plush carpet. With an extensive record collection and a functioning roof, Lewis really enjoys spending time here.
Toronto is large and unfamiliar in this story. It is full of different ethical food stands and businesses the main characters have never encountered, such as Sam the Man franchises and Chinese food. Only as small portion if the city is explored during the story, mostly main streets, a hotel, and the Maple Leaf Gardens Arena. This arena is the setting for the Wings Across America concert tour. This is a pivotal point in the book, where Lewis and George really confirm and strengthen their friendship and Lewis is opened up to so many new experiences and memories.