1. Hollis Woods' Transient Life:
* Foster homes: The novel opens with Hollis in a foster home in Virginia. The book follows her journey through several foster homes, each offering a different environment and experience.
* Bus stops: Hollis frequently travels by bus, and the bus stops become temporary havens for her. They symbolize her constant movement and her sense of isolation.
2. The Town of Hollis, New Hampshire:
* The town of Hollis: This is where Hollis finds a sense of belonging and stability for the first time. The town is depicted as a small, friendly community where people know each other.
* The farm: The farm where Hollis lives with the "Aunt" (a kind woman who cares for Hollis) is her haven, offering her a chance to connect with nature and find peace.
3. The City of Boston:
* The city: Boston is a backdrop for Hollis's past, where she remembers her abusive father and the tragedy that led to her placement in foster care.
* The orphanage: Hollis spends some time in an orphanage in Boston, which is a place of sadness and loss.
4. Other Locations:
* The beach: The beach symbolizes freedom and a sense of escape for Hollis.
* The woods: Hollis finds solace in nature, particularly in the woods, which represent a place of healing and self-discovery.
Overall:
The setting of "Hollis Woods" is integral to the story. The constant movement and instability of Hollis's life, coupled with the small-town warmth of Hollis, New Hampshire, and the solace found in nature, create a powerful emotional journey for the reader.