Novels in Poems
Click on a grade below to see a list of suggested novels written in poetry for that level.
New Novels in Poems
Grades 4+
Ivan (The Ape at Exit 8) is a downtrodden, has-been silverback gorilla living in a small, unkept domain within a shopping mall, occasionally accompanied by Bob, a stray dog who sneaks into Ivan's domain through a hole in the glass.
Stella, an aging elephant with a bad foot, dies from lack of treatment after Ruby, a baby elephant purchased from a defunct circus, arrives at the mall. The owner hopes Ruby will jumpstart visitor attendance again. Before Stella dies, she asks Ivan to promise that he will bring Ruby somewhere safe, knowing his devotion to protection of his friends is paramount.
Ivan's poetic narration is honest, painful, and heartbreaking; Applegate's insight into captive animal life is powerful. Don't miss this book, no matter how old you are.
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More books by Katherine Applegate.
Reading Level: Grades 2-4
These poems are for every big sister who has had to deal with an little sister who drives them crazy! Has your room been invaded? Does she want to join you and your friends? Do you parents always expect you to be the "role model?" But do you really, really love each other-most of the time? This is the book for you!
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Books by Kristine O'Connell George
Reading Level: Ages 3-6
A magpie with a very empty nest is given a marble by a helpful mouse....
...but then he gets more...
...and more....
...and more...
How will magpie fit in his nest with all that stuff?
Reading Level: Grades 6-8
This companion book to The Misfits and Totally Joe is a worthy addition to the story of the Gang of Five. Addie Carle is now thirteen and facing the "purgatory of the middle school years." Written entirely in verse, these poems show a softer, more vulnerable side of strong, brave Addie. While Addie isn't reluctant to voice her opinions about everything from gay rights to women's role in history, she also feels the appeal of popularity. She loves having a boyfriend, but finds he doesn't love some of the things she says or the way she says them. A former girlfriend moves back to town and joins her tormentors. While Addie understands that there are those who love her and value her for herself, the turmoil and the gossip are hard to take.
Readers will like Addie and the conclusion she reaches. The first poem is by the author directed to the reader. He asks, "open your eyes, your mind, your heart." Anyone who reads this book will.
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Reading Level: Grade 6-8
When Mrs. Abbott went into the gas station to pay for the gas, her eight-year-old daughter Wren asked to stay in the car to listen to music. It was the biggest mistake either of them would ever make.
When shots rang out, Wren hid under a blanket on the floor of the van. She was relieved when her mother came back and started the car until she smelled the smoke...her mother didn't smoke cigarettes. Wren froze. She stayed under the blanket during the long drive. She remained under the blanket for when the man left the car. Later, she cautiously sat up and discovered that she was locked in a garage with no way out.
When the Amber Alert came on the T.V. Darra's mother started yelling. Darra's father insisted he had only taken the van, not a child. When they check the van, it is empty. But Darra is observant. She suspects the missing child is hidden somewhere in the garage. She has to get her away from the house before Darra's father gets in big trouble. Her plan doesn't work.
Six years later, at Camp Oakwood, the paths of the two girls cross again and once more their lives are changed forever.
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If you enjoy this gripping novel in verse try: