Student Question
What is the setting of The Misfits by James Howe?
Quick answer:
The setting of "The Misfits" is the fictional town of Paintbrush Falls, New York, inspired by the real town of Winston, where author James Howe lived until seventh grade. The town features small businesses typical of a quaint community, such as The Candy Kitchen, which is based on real locations from Howe's childhood. The story unfolds a few months into the school year, primarily at school and the Candy Kitchen.
The Misfits is set in the town of Paintbrush Falls, New York. Paintbrush Falls is a fictional town, though according to the author, James Howe, it is based on the real town of Winston, New York, where the author lived until he was in the seventh grade. The town has an assortment of small businesses that might be easily imagined in a small, kitschy town. Some of these, including The Candy Kitchen, are based on real businesses that Howe remembers from his time in Webster.
The timing of the story is not specified, but it is clearly a few months after the beginning of the school year. Most of the scenes of the book take place either at school or at the Candy Kitchen.
Get Ahead with eNotes
Start your 48-hour free trial to access everything you need to rise to the top of the class. Enjoy expert answers and study guides ad-free and take your learning to the next level.
Already a member? Log in here.