Apr 19, 2024 by The Editors of Fabled Films Press

April is National Poetry Month! Check out four of our favorite reads for middle grade readers this month—these books are written in verse, meaning that unlike traditional novels, these stories take the form of poetry. Happy reading!

Turn the Tide by Elaine Dimopoulos
This inspiring story follows twelve-year-old Mimi Laskaris. When Mimi’s family moves to Florida, she grapples with change—but more importantly, she’s taken aback by the plastic pollution she sees at the beaches! With the help of her new friends and her science teacher, Ms. Miller, Mimi fights for change in this story of environmental activism, friendship, and self-discovery. (Ages 8-12)

Dear Mothman by Robin Gow
This coming-of-age story is about a young trans boy, Noah, as he struggles to deal with the loss of his best friend, Lewis. After Lewis passes, Noah looks for someone who can understand him like Lewis did. He sets out to prove the existence of Mothman, a cryptid rumored to live in the woods of his small Poconos town. Noah risks everything as he journeys into the woods to prove Mothman’s existence and find himself in the process. (Ages 9-13)

A Bit of Earth by Karuna Riazi 
This retelling of The Secret Garden follows Maria, who grew up in Pakistan and is suddenly shipped to a host family on Long Island. Her new home is a sprawling house with a locked, off-limits garden. When Maria decides to investigate, she discovers a place that reminds her of home. (Ages 9-13)

Louder Than Hunger by John Schu
Louder Than Hunger follows Jake, who loves helping people, singing, and reading but feels like “the weird one” and “an outsider.” He avoids eating and kids his own age, but how long will he punish himself before he truly disappears? Inspired by the author’s own experiences as a young teen with an eating disorder, this verse novel encourages the power of embracing support and self-love. (Ages 10-14) 

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