Published:
Novels in Verse Poetry comes in thousands of different formats from micro-poetry and haikus, to epics and novels. Also known as narrative poetry, a novel in verse (or verse novel) is a story that is told through poems instead of traditional prose. If you're looking for different ways to celebrate National Poetry Month, give these titles a try!
Autobiography of Red by Anne Carson
Anne Carson recreates the myth of Herakles through the lens of a red, winged monster named Geryon. Part romance, part introspection, this intricate read is perfect for fans of The Song of Achilles and Sappho.
Dreaming of You by Melissa Lozada-Oliva
Part biography and part fantasy, Lozada-Oilva weaves her experiences and emotions with the idea of resurrecting Selena Quintanilla Pérez. It's raw, beautiful, and you won't be able to set it down. If you've ever been lonely in a relationship, or have been rocked by the death of a celebrity you never met, this book is for you.
Me (Moth) by Amber McBride
Moth and Sani embark on a road trip to find their ancestors as well as themselves. After a car accident kills her family, Moth is left to live in the suburbs with her aunt feeling guilty and invisible. She meets Sani--a Navajo teen who sees past her tragedy. McBride give us a sprawling tale that weaves Navajo and Hoodoo traditions to examine grief and death.
Long Way Down by Jason Reynolds
A thrilling, emotional story by acclaimed author, Jason Reynolds, we follow Will as he makes his way down his building's elevator to avenge the death of his brother. Because that's one of the rules. Don't cry. Don't snitch. Get even. But as he descends, he's visited by ghost connected to his brother's death. This story keeps you on the edge of your seat with each encounter and the end will take your breath away.
Brown Girl Dreaming by Jacqueline Woodson
Jacqueline Woodson's autobiography aptly begins with the day she was born. But she doesn't just include her own life story, she tells us the story of her parents and ancestors, and the progression of the Civil Rights Movement that grows alongside her. Through the lens of her poetry, we see what it was like to grow up a Black woman and the world change around you; and in the end Woodson reminds us, Woodson reminds us that on paper, everything lives forever. Also, check out the works of Kip Wilson, Kwame Alexander, and Elizabeth Acevedo.
Looking to get personalized reading recommendations from DC Public Library staff? Fill out this form and a curated list will get sent directly to your inbox!
About the Author: Brandy S.
Brandy is a Teen Services librarian at the Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial Library. Originally from Northern Virginia she's thrilled to be working in DC. She enjoys YA fiction, horror, and queer fiction. While not at work, she can be found reading, writing, and yelling at her cats.