Poetry and Verse Books

Brown Girl Dreaming is a breathtaking memoir written in mesmerizing verse that captures the heart of Jacqueline Woodson’s childhood. Growing up in the 1960s and 70s, Jacqueline navigates life between the bustling streets of New York and the quiet, river-filled landscapes of South Carolina. This National Book Award winner offers a deeply personal look at what it was like to grow up as an African American during the Civil Rights movement, dealing with the lingering shadows of Jim Crow while searching for a sense of belonging.

This book is ideal for readers interested in history, poetry, and stories of self-discovery. Through vivid imagery and accessible language, Woodson shares her journey of finding her voice as a writer despite struggling with reading as a child. It is a perfect choice for children who love emotional, character-driven stories and parents looking for books that tackle complex social issues with grace and sensitivity. Readers will be inspired by Jacqueline’s perseverance and her beautiful portrayal of family bonds and spiritual growth.

Highlights:

• Written in beautiful, accessible free-verse poetry that is perfect for reluctant readers.
• Explores important historical themes like the Civil Rights movement and Jim Crow laws through a child's eyes.
• A powerful story about overcoming learning struggles and finding one's passion for storytelling.
• Winner of the National Book Award, Newbery Honor, and Coretta Scott King Award.

Clap When You Land is a breathtaking novel-in-verse that explores the profound impact of loss and the unexpected bonds of sisterhood. When a plane crash claims the life of their father, Camino Rios in the Dominican Republic and Yahaira Rios in New York City are left devastated. However, the tragedy unearths a shocking secret: they are sisters who never knew the other existed. This poignant story follows their journey as they navigate grief, anger, and the complicated legacy of the man they both loved.

Elizabeth Acevedo’s lyrical writing makes this an ideal choice for readers interested in emotional contemporary fiction and diverse voices. The dual-perspective narrative provides a rich look at different cultural experiences while highlighting the universal themes of family and forgiveness. It is perfect for teens who love character-driven stories that tackle heavy subjects with grace and beauty. Fans of The Poet X and those looking for powerful stories about identity and resilience will find this book deeply moving.

Highlights:

• A masterfully written novel-in-verse that is both accessible and emotionally resonant.
• Dual perspectives that explore the lives of two sisters separated by distance and secrets.
• Rich cultural representation of the Dominican Republic and the Dominican diaspora in NYC.
• A touching exploration of grief, healing, and the meaning of family.

Set in the atmospheric streets of 17th-century Rome, Everything Is Poison is a gripping historical novel that blends prose and verse to tell the story of Carmela Tofana. At sixteen, Carmela is finally allowed into her mother’s apothecary, only to discover that the family business involves more than just healing herbs. She learns of Aqua Tofana, a lethal remedy for women trapped in dangerous marriages. This evocative story explores the thin line between medicine and poison, and the lengths women will go to protect one another in a world that offers them little power.

Perfect for fans of Blood Water Paint and The Lost Apothecary, this book is an ideal choice for readers interested in feminist history, Renaissance Italy, and stories told through unique formats like verse. Parents will appreciate the complex moral questions it raises about justice and survival. It is a great choice for young adults who enjoy dark, atmospheric mysteries and strong female protagonists navigating historical social issues.

Highlights:

• Unique blend of prose and verse storytelling.
• Richly detailed historical setting of 17th-century Rome.
• Powerful themes of female agency and solidarity.
• Compelling exploration of the legendary Giulia Tofana.

I Am the Swarm is a powerful and evocative Young Adult novel in verse that explores the weight of legacy and the intensity of female emotion. Nell Strand comes from a long line of magical women, but she views their gifts as a curse that fractures her family. When her own magic finally arrives, it manifests as a swarm of insects—starting with delicate ladybugs but quickly escalating into beetles, moths, and stinging wasps that mirror her suppressed rage. This lyrical story is perfect for readers who enjoy magical realism and stories that tackle complex family dynamics with raw honesty.

Ideal for fans of Jandy Nelson and Laurie Halse Anderson, this book is a great choice for teens looking for a deeply emotional and atmospheric read. Through the unique format of verse, Hayley Chewins captures the visceral experience of growing up and finding one's voice amidst societal and familial expectations. It is a captivating pick for those interested in feminist themes, the power of creativity, and the journey toward self-acceptance.

Highlights:

• A unique and propulsive narrative told entirely in verse.
• A compelling exploration of feminist rage and emotional expression.
• Intricate magical realism where emotions manifest as physical swarms.
• Deeply relatable themes of family legacy and the struggle for identity.

Inside Out & Back Again is a moving and lyrical novel told through a series of short, poignant poems. It follows ten-year-old Hà, who has only ever known Saigon: the thrills of its markets, the joy of its traditions, and the warmth of her friends. But when the Vietnam War reaches her doorstep, Hà and her family are forced to flee on a ship, leaving everything behind for a new life in Alabama. This beautifully written story captures the heartbreak of loss and the confusing, often difficult process of adjusting to a foreign culture where everything from the food to the language feels strange.

This book is ideal for readers interested in historical events and those who appreciate stories about the immigrant experience. The verse format makes it an accessible yet deeply emotional read, perfect for children who love character-driven stories like Brown Girl Dreaming or Other Words for Home. Parents will find it a great choice for sparking discussions about empathy, history, and the strength it takes to start over in a new land.

Highlights:

• A National Book Award winner and Newbery Honor book that explores the refugee experience.
• Unique free-verse poetry format that is both easy to read and emotionally resonant.
• Powerful exploration of cultural identity and the challenges of fitting in.
• A touching portrayal of family bonds and the resilience of the human spirit.

Locomotion is a deeply moving and National Book Award finalist by acclaimed author Jacqueline Woodson. The story follows eleven-year-old Lonnie Collins Motion—nicknamed Locomotion—who has faced unimaginable tragedy. After losing his parents in a house fire and being separated from his younger sister, Lili, Lonnie must navigate the complexities of the foster care system. Living with his foster mother, Miss Edna, Lonnie begins to find his voice through the power of poetry, encouraged by a supportive teacher who helps him process his jumbled feelings on paper.

This lyrical novel is perfect for children who love emotional, character-driven stories and is an ideal choice for readers interested in verse novels. Woodson’s spare yet powerful language makes the heavy themes of grief and separation accessible and hopeful. It is a great choice for classrooms and families looking to discuss resilience, the meaning of family, and the importance of self-expression. Fans of The Crossover or Brown Girl Dreaming will find Lonnie’s journey both heartbreaking and inspiring.

Highlights:

• A poignant exploration of the foster care system and sibling bonds.
• Written entirely in beautiful, accessible verse that appeals to reluctant readers.
• A powerful testament to the healing nature of writing and creativity.
• Features a strong, relatable protagonist navigating grief and growth.

Long Way Down is an electrifying and intense novel that unfolds in just sixty seconds. Fifteen-year-old Will is grieving the murder of his older brother, Shawn. Following the 'rules' of his neighborhood—no crying, no snitching, and always seek revenge—Will steps into an elevator with a gun tucked into his waistband, intent on killing the person he believes is responsible. However, as the elevator descends, it stops at every floor, and a different person from Will's past gets on. The catch? Every single one of them is dead.

Written in fierce, staccato narrative verse, Jason Reynolds crafts a powerful story that explores the devastating cycle of gun violence and the weight of difficult choices. This book is ideal for readers interested in social justice, urban life, and emotionally resonant storytelling. It is a perfect choice for teenagers who prefer fast-paced, high-stakes narratives that challenge their perspectives on morality and family loyalty.

Highlights:

• A gripping story told entirely through beautiful and accessible narrative verse.
• Explores complex themes of grief, revenge, and the consequences of one's actions.
• Unique structure where the entire plot takes place during a one-minute elevator ride.
• Award-winning literature that sparks deep conversations about real-world issues.

Long Way Down: The Graphic Novel is a visceral and hauntingly beautiful adaptation of Jason Reynolds' award-winning novel in verse. The story follows fifteen-year-old Will, who is consumed by grief and anger after his older brother, Shawn, is murdered. Following 'The Rules' passed down through generations—No Crying, No Snitching, and Revenge—Will steps into an elevator with a gun tucked into his waistband, intent on killing the person he believes is responsible. However, the sixty-second ride to the ground floor becomes a transformative journey as the elevator stops at every floor, and Will is visited by ghosts of people from his past who were all victims of the same cycle of violence.

This graphic novel version, stunningly illustrated by Danica Novgorodoff, uses watercolor imagery to bring the raw emotion and tension of Will's internal struggle to life. It is an ideal choice for readers interested in social justice, urban realism, and stories that tackle difficult contemporary issues with nuance and empathy. Perfect for teenagers who appreciate powerful visual storytelling, this book provides a profound look at the consequences of our choices and the weight of legacy. It is a great choice for reluctant readers or those who loved the original verse novel and want to experience the story through a new, evocative lens.

Highlights:

• Breathtaking watercolor illustrations that enhance the emotional depth of the narrative.
• A gripping, high-stakes plot that takes place entirely within a sixty-second elevator ride.
• A powerful exploration of the 'cycle of violence' and the complexity of grief and revenge.
• An accessible yet profound reading experience perfect for engaging older teens in critical discussions.

Love That Dog is a heartwarming and poignant verse novel that follows Jack, a young boy who is convinced that "boys don't write poetry." Through the gentle encouragement of his teacher, Miss Stretchberry, and the inspiration of famous poets like William Carlos Williams and Robert Frost, Jack begins to find his own voice. What starts as a classroom assignment evolves into a deeply personal journey as Jack uses his writing to process his feelings about his beloved dog, Sky.

This book is a perfect choice for children who might be reluctant readers or those who feel intimidated by poetry. Sharon Creech's unique storytelling style makes the narrative feel accessible and immediate, capturing the authentic voice of a child. It is ideal for readers interested in stories about the bond between humans and animals, as well as those navigating the complexities of grief and self-expression. Parents will appreciate how the book introduces classic poetry in a way that feels relevant and engaging for modern kids.

Highlights:

• A unique story told entirely in free-verse poetry that is easy to follow.
• Explores themes of loss and healing through the lens of a pet.
• Introduces young readers to famous poets and literary techniques in a non-intimidating way.
• Features a relatable protagonist who grows in confidence and creativity.

Return to the beloved world of the Newbery Medal-winning The One and Only Ivan in this high-stakes sequel starring the scrappy and sarcastic dog, Bob. While Bob might act like he prefers the tough life of a stray, he soon finds himself on a dangerous journey to find his long-lost sister. With a massive hurricane approaching, Bob must team up with his best friends—Ivan the gorilla and Ruby the elephant—to navigate a world turned upside down by the storm. This story is a perfect choice for children who love animal-led adventures and stories that blend laugh-out-loud humor with deeply moving emotional moments.

Katherine Applegate’s signature lyrical writing style makes this an ideal for readers interested in fast-paced yet thoughtful narratives. As Bob faces his fears and confronts his past, young readers will be swept away by a tale of bravery and the enduring bonds of chosen family. It is a great choice for fans of Charlotte's Web or Because of Winn-Dixie who are looking for a modern classic that explores what it truly means to be a hero.

Highlights:

• A thrilling and emotional sequel to the award-winning The One and Only Ivan.
• Features a relatable, witty animal protagonist that children will instantly root for.
• Explores complex themes of forgiveness, loyalty, and courage in an accessible way.
• Short, punchy chapters and verse-like prose make it an engaging read for all levels.

The One and Only Ruby is a heartwarming and poignant novel in verse that continues the beloved story of the characters from the Newbery Medal-winning The One and Only Ivan. This time, the spotlight is on Ruby, the adorable baby elephant now living safely in a wildlife sanctuary. When a caretaker from her past in Africa arrives for a visit, Ruby is flooded with memories of her life before the circus. Through her unique perspective, readers journey back to the African savannah as she recounts her experiences of family, loss, and survival to her dear friends Ivan and Bob.

Written by the acclaimed Katherine Applegate, this book is a perfect choice for children who love animal stories and emotional, character-driven narratives. The novel's verse format makes it an accessible yet deeply moving read, ideal for readers interested in wildlife conservation and the bonds of friendship. Parents and educators will find it a great choice for middle-grade readers who enjoy stories that balance humor with heartfelt life lessons about growing up and finding one's place in the world.

Highlights:

• A beautiful continuation of the world established in The One and Only Ivan and The One and Only Bob.
• Written in engaging and lyrical verse that is perfect for reluctant readers and poetry lovers alike.
• Explores important themes of animal welfare, memory, and the meaning of home.
• Features stunning black-and-white illustrations that bring Ruby's journey to life.

The Poet X is a breathtaking novel-in-verse that introduces readers to Xiomara Batista, a fierce and frustrated teenager living in Harlem. Xiomara feels unheard and struggles with the unwanted attention her body receives, often letting her fists do the talking. However, her true self is hidden within the pages of a leather notebook where she pours out her passion, doubts, and dreams. This award-winning story is perfect for readers who love powerful, rhythmic storytelling and are looking for a protagonist who isn't afraid to challenge the status quo.

As Xiomara navigates the pressures of her mother’s strict religious expectations and a secret romance with a boy from her biology class, she finds a potential outlet in her school’s slam poetry club. This book is an ideal choice for readers interested in themes of identity, cultural heritage, and the courage it takes to speak your truth. Fans of Jason Reynolds and Jacqueline Woodson will find this story particularly resonant. It is a great choice for older teens who appreciate lyrical writing and emotionally complex narratives about growing up and finding one's place in the world.

Highlights:

• Written in stunning, rhythmic verse that captures the energy of slam poetry.
• Explores complex themes of Afro-Latina identity, religion, and family dynamics.
• A deeply moving coming-of-age story about the power of finding your own voice.

Step through the mirror into a world where everything is reversed and logic is turned on its head! In this timeless sequel to Alice's Adventures in Wonderland, young Alice finds herself on a giant chessboard, embarking on a journey to become a Queen. Along the way, she encounters iconic characters like Tweedledum and Tweedledee, the Red Queen, and the White Knight. This whimsical tale is perfect for children who love wordplay, riddles, and surreal adventures that challenge the imagination.

Ideal for readers interested in classic literature and nonsense poetry, Lewis Carroll’s masterpiece remains a staple for any home library. It is a great choice for families to read together, as the clever puns and mathematical puzzles offer layers of enjoyment for both kids and parents. Whether your child is a fan of the original Alice story or is discovering the Looking-Glass world for the first time, they will be captivated by the vibrant imagery and the famous 'Jabberwocky' poem.

Highlights:

• A unique narrative structure based on a game of chess.
• Features famous nonsense poems like 'Jabberwocky' and 'The Walrus and the Carpenter.'
• Encourages critical thinking through logic puzzles and linguistic play.
• A foundational classic of the fantasy genre that inspires creativity.