What is the setting of Freak the Mighty? Rural or urban? Explain why.

The setting of Rodman Philbrick's Freak the
Mighty is unnamed but is based on the author's former home of Portsmouth, New
Hampshire, where he went to high school. It is not a rural setting, but a city or
town of some size with many dangers. There are housing projects, particularly the
rundown New Tenements, and roving gangs--a sure sign of urban plight. Kevin and Max live
in duplexes, most often found in cities. When the two boys make their trek eastward,
they walk for "miles," going through other neighborhoods before reaching the hospital.
The city is a depressing place, and most of the homes and buildings are sad refuges from
the danger that can be found outside. A peaceful, country setting it is
not.