62 pages • 2 hours read
The Poet X
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Book Brief
368
Novel/Book in Verse • Fiction
Harlem, New York • 2010s
2018
YA
13-18 years
Super Short Summary
The Poet X by Elizabeth Acevedo follows 15-year-old Xiomara Batista from Harlem, who uses poetry to express emotions and thoughts she can't vocalize. Encouraged by her English teacher, Ms. Galiano, Xiomara joins a poetry club and competes in a citywide slam. Throughout her sophomore year, Xiomara grapples with her religious upbringing, body image, first love, and the struggle for independence from her strict, devout mother. The novel highlights her journey to self-discovery and asserting her identity through her creative expression. Sensitive topics include sexual harassment and religious conflict.
Emotional
Inspirational
Challenging
Romantic
Contemplative
Reviews & Readership
138,756 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Elizabeth Acevedo's The Poet X receives widespread acclaim for its powerful verse, compelling storytelling, and authentic portrayal of a young Afro-Latina's struggles with identity and family expectations. While praised for its emotional depth and lyrical style, some critics feel its resolution is somewhat predictable. Overall, it’s a moving, thought-provoking read.
Who Should Read The Poet X?
A reader who would enjoy The Poet X by Elizabeth Acevedo is likely someone who appreciates coming-of-age stories told in vivid, lyrical verse. Similar readers might enjoy The Hate U Give by Angie Thomas and Brown Girl Dreaming by Jacqueline Woodson for their exploration of identity, culture, and social issues through powerful narrative voices.
138,756 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
368
Novel/Book in Verse • Fiction
Harlem, New York • 2010s
2018
YA
13-18 years
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