House on Rondo

Debra J Stone writes essays, poetry, and fiction. She received a 2023–25 Jerome Hill Artist Fellowship in Literature and the 2023 Loft Mirrors and Windows Fellowship for writing books for BIPOC children and young adults. She lives in Minneapolis with her husband and her Australian cattle dog, Ruby. Find her online at debrajeannestone.com or on Instagram @debra2036.

"The House on Rondo brings Minnesota history to life, revealing long-hidden truths about our collective past. Through young Zenobia, we see and experience the vibrance of Rondo, the thriving neighborhood of Black homeowners and businesses that was destroyed to build I-94 between Minneapolis and Saint Paul. For many, this might be the first time they encounter the story of Rondo, and I couldn't think of a better way to introduce this chapter of our history to readers of all ages. Debra J Stone's book is a love letter to Rondo, an ode to the strength and vitality of Black communities, and a gift to Minnesotans and to readers everywhere who are willing to look their own messy history in the eye - and learn from it in order to fight for a better world." - Molly Beth Griffin, award-winning author of Silhouette of a Sparrow"Humans, houses, and history come alive in Debra J Stone's beautiful and personal novel, The House on Rondo. Stone dazzles with collected and recollected details, captivating characters, and authentic emotions. The House on Rondo is one of those books that stays with you. It's an act of remembering that changes how you think about people and places. It's one of those books you want everyone to read." - Michael Kleber-Diggs, author of Worldly Things"An essential history of community and resistance has come to life in Debra J Stone's novel about a young girl fighting to save her grandparents' home. The House on Rondo isn't just for kids - it's for all of us." - Shannon Gibney, author of Dream Country"[The House on Rondo] is significant to all who read it for uncovering a little-known piece of Black history." – Booklist"A heartfelt ode to Rondo's once-thriving neighborhood, this novel showcases the grief of a targeted community, and most importantly, their resilience and determination in the face of systemic injustice." – Minnesota Women's Press"Debra J Stone's novel weaves a tale of strength, connection, and resilience." – Minnesota History Magazine"Debra J. Stone's storytelling is captivating... The House on Rondo is a book filled with love. Community. Neighbors. People who care for each other. It is a book I encourage you to read." – Reading Ahead

• Contents Zenobia Josephine Price Driving to Saint Paul Grandma Essie’s House Horace Miller, Senior King of the Hill Margaret Smith Biloxi, Mississippi, to Saint Paul, Minnesota In Trouble The Letter Grandpa Joe and Zenobia  The Spirit Child Writing Letters Great-Grandma Zenobia Comes to Saint Paul Grandma Essie’s Pact of Silence Grandpa Joe at the Saint Paul Banks and Savings and Loans Mrs. Ruby Pearl  The Sit-in Zenobia in Trouble News from Ruthann Margaret and Betty Going to the Library The House at 841 Rondo Avenue Ada Milton The Party Chocolate Annie Oakley It Was Time to Do Better Author’s Note Acknowledgments References