10 Novels in Verse for Middle-Grade Readers
What is a novel in verse?
Novels in verse are stories written using poetry instead of the usual prose format with sentences, paragraphs, and chapters. When the poems are put together, they tell a complete story. Some of the poems may rhyme, some may not. Either way, the rhythm of each poem makes this type of book fun to read.
Why are novels in verse great for young readers?
- Novels in verse are a quick read. Finishing a book builds confidence, especially in emerging readers.
- The unique format, rhyme, and language is engaging. This is great for students that are easily bored with reading.
- Most novels in verse are filled with figurative language and sensory details. The vivid imagery helps students connect with the subject and characters.
- Novels in verse show students that it is possible for writing to be creative and fun.
Starfish by Lisa Fipps
Starfish by Lisa Fipps belongs in every middle-grade classroom library. Any young reader that has ever been bullied for being different needs to read this book. Eleven-year-old Elllie is bullied about her size at school, mercilessly teased by her siblings, and fat-shamed by her insensitive mother. The only place Ellie feels safe is in her backyard swimming pool where she can relax and be her true self without judgment from others. Over the course of the story, Ellie finds her voice. She learns how to respond to bullies, realizes her worth, and she confronts her mother. This inspiring novel-in-verse will speak to anyone who has been made to feel like they don’t belong. (Age: 10+)
Brown Girl Dreaming by Jacqueline Woodson
Award-winning author Jacqueline Woodson shares her diverse childhood in this captivating novel in verse for middle-grade readers. Woodson’s poetry takes readers on an emotional journey through the contrasting life experiences she faces in South Carolina and New York. As Woodson grows, she comes to understand the power of a strong family, the reality of living in a world that isn’t always fair, and the joy of finding her own voice as a writer. There is truly something for everyone in Brown Girl Dreaming. (Ages:10+)
Other Words for Home by Jasmine Warga
Other Words for Home by Jasmine Warga is a New York Times Best-Seller and Newbery Honor Book. If you teach English Language Learners, you need this book in your classroom. This novel is verse is about a young girl named Jude who must leave her father and brother in Syria to move with her mother to the United States. At first, life in America is difficult. Jude feels different from all the other kids her age. Over time, Jude begins to love herself and her new home in America. (Ages 8+)
Love That Dog by Sharon Creech
Love That Dog by Sharon Creech is a perfect book for reluctant readers and writers. The story is told from the perspective of a young boy who hates poetry. When he realizes he can’t escape his teacher’s poetry assignments, he composes his first poem. Then something amazing happens. He realizes he loves writing poems (even sad ones that his teacher hangs up in the classroom). He loves the words, the creativity, and the freedom poetry provides. Use this book to kick off your poetry unit or as a class read aloud. It would also make a great gift for a future poet. (Ages: 9+)
Red, White, and Whole by Rajani LaRocca
Red, White, and Whole by Rajani LaRocca is a sensitive coming of age story about a young girl who feels lost between two cultures. 13-year-old Reha is caught between her Indian culture and her American culture. As Reha struggles to find her identity, her mother gets very sick. Reha’s world is turned upside down. Through uncertainty, heartbreak, and grief, Reha connects with her mom in a way she never imagined possible. This touching novel in verse tackles many universal themes that young readers will find inspiring and relatable. (Ages 8+)
Forget Me Not by Ellie Terry
Forget Me Not by Ellie Terry is told from the perspective of two middle school students: Calliope and Jinsong. Calliope and her mother move around a lot, forcing Calliope to constantly adjust to new friends and new schools. While navigating each new place, Calliope also tries to hide her Tourette syndrome. She doesn’t want the kids in her new school to think she’s different. Things change when she meets her neighbor Jinsong. He doesn’t define Callope by her tics. He sees her as a unique and interesting person. But is he brave enough to be her friend in public? As Jinsong wrestles with this dilemma, Calliope worries her mother will decide to move again. Young readers will love this coming of age story about diversity, friendship, and confidence. (Ages 9+)
The Canyon’s Edge by Dusti Bowling
The Canyon’s Edge is another remarkable book from Dusti Bowling. Told in verse, this gripping tale of survival follows Nora as she conquers her fears and overcomes seemingly insurmountable obstacles in the canyons of the Arizona desert. Bowling’s use of poetry and language is fantastic. All young readers should have a chance to experience the beauty of this triumphant narrative poem. Although the book is intended for young adult readers, parents and teachers should note that the story alludes to the violent death of a parent and the trauma it leaves behind. (Age: 8+)
The Crossover by Kwame Alexander
Perfect for reluctant readers! The Crossover is a coming of age story centered around basketball, family, and teenage drama. Twin brothers Josh and Jordan have always been close, but their brotherly bond is put to the test when they are forced to confront issues neither one of them saw coming. Using beautiful language and a free flowing rhythm, Alexander is able to balance lighthearted comedy and heavy emotions. The entire novel is written using dynamic poetic verse, ideal for young readers looking for something different. Family struggles, sibling rivalry, and heartfelt moments are included throughout, drawing readers in with each turn of the page. (Ages 10+)
Enchanted Air by Margarita Engle
In Enchanted Air, Margarita Engle uses narrative verse to share the struggles she faced growing up in two distinctly different cultures. Margarita is deeply connected to her familial roots in Cuba, but she also feels strongly tied to her life in the United States. Longing to fit in, Engle uses vivid imagery and rich language to describe how it feels to be different. In the midst of searching for a sense of belonging, Margarita learns to appreciate her differences. Ideal for young readers who feel as though they are always on the outside looking in, this memoir is a beautifully written work of art. (Ages: 12+)
Becoming Muhammad Ali by James Patterson and Kwame Alexander
Becoming Muhammad Ali is a perfect choice for kids that love biographies! This novel in verse takes readers back to boxing legend Muhammad Ali’s days of growing up as Cassius Clay in Louisville, Kentucky. The illustrations, rhyming language, and action-packed boxing scenes make Becoming Muhammad Ali the perfect book for readers of all ages, especially those that love sports. Add it to your classroom library today! (Ages 9+)
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