The House You Pass on the Way

Literary awards - Vermont Golden Dome Book Award Nominee (1999), Lambda Literary Award for Young Adult / Children's Book (1998)

The House You Pass on the Way

Staggerlee feels like an outsider in her small Southern town. Named after a famous outlaw and caught between worlds, she has always seen herself as different—especially after a rumor spread about a kiss with another girl. Then Tyler, her aunt's adopted daughter, comes to stay for the summer. Unlike anyone Staggerlee has met, Tyler is confident, curious, and unafraid to be herself.

As the two girls bond, their connection deepens into something neither fully understands. Together, they explore their identities, their feelings, and the complexities of family and love. But their growing closeness brings challenges, pushing them to face questions they’re not sure they’re ready to answer.

In The House You Pass on the Way, Jacqueline Woodson delivers a tender, thought-provoking story about self-discovery, friendship, and the courage to be true to yourself. Simultaneous.