The House You Pass On the Way

THE HOUSE YOU PASS ON THE WAY
By: Jacqueline Woodson

Summary:
Staggerlee’s voice takes you through her 13-14 year old life as she discovers that her problems as a bi-racial child are only the beginning. After an intense afternoon with another girl, Hazel, Staggerlee confirms that she likes girls. She has trouble coming to terms with any type of status with this feeling, but is able to share her struggles with her cousin. The end of the novel leaves you open-ended, much like Staggerlee would be feeling at this point. She seems more resolved with her identity, but is clearly still working it out.

Teachability:
The story definitly lends itself to a class discussion, small group or individual read. The themes of small-town American prejudice, biracial struggles, and lesbianism are all done very well in this novel. It sets up a lot of background and takes a while to get into, but about half way through I could not put it down. I would definitely recommend this for any middle-grade level, and even into freshman year especially for students going through this journey.