Our Next-Door Neighbors

"Our Next-Door Neighbors" by Belle Kanaris Maniates is a story set in the early 1900s that follows Lucien Wade and his wife, Silvia, as their peaceful life is turned upside down by the large, rambunctious Polydore family next door. Initially childless and somewhat isolated, Lucien and Silvia find themselves facing the constant commotion and unexpected intrusions of the Polydore children, who bring chaos and humor into their orderly world. The novel playfully considers topics like family, social standing, and how children can disrupt the lives of those who aren't used to them, all while showing Lucien and Silvia's journey as they learn to deal with and eventually appreciate the lively presence of their next-door neighbors.