The Poet X

by Elizabeth Acevedo
The Poet X cover
Good Books rating 4.42
Young Adult (YA)
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  • ID: 10021
  • Added: 2026-01-05
  • Updated: 2026-01-05
  • ISBN: 9781432864583
  • Publisher: Thorndike Press Large Print
  • Published: 2019-01-01
  • Reviews: 3

Xiomara Batista, a fierce and passionate teenager, feels stifled by her mother's religious expectations and the expectations of her Harlem neighborhood. She pours her emotions into a leather notebook, writing poems that she recites like prayers. When she falls for a boy named Aman, she knows her family can never accept him, adding to her internal struggle. Joining her school's slam poetry club offers her a chance to express herself, but she must navigate the risks of defying her mother's wishes. The Poet X is a powerful exploration of identity, self-expression, and the complexities of family dynamics. Xiomara's journey is one of finding her voice and the courage to use it, even in the face of adversity. The novel is a winner of multiple awards, including the National Book Award, the Michael L. Printz Award, and the Pura Belpré Award, highlighting its impactful storytelling and resonant themes.

Reviews
Young Poets Network · Eben Roddis · 2026-01-05
brilliant 4.50

The novel is a testament to Elizabeth Acevedo's storytelling and poetic talent, showcasing her ability to blend narrative and verse seamlessly. The protagonist's journey is both compelling and authentic, resonating with readers on multiple levels.

Eben Roddis praises 'The Poet X' as a terrific example of Elizabeth Acevedo's skill in both storytelling and poetry. The novel's verse format is not just a gimmick but a powerful tool that enhances the narrative. The protagonist's struggle to find her voice and understand her place in the world is portrayed with depth and authenticity. Roddis appreciates how the book tackles complex themes like religion, family, and self-expression, making it a relatable and impactful read. The blend of personal and universal issues makes it a standout work in young adult literature.

Quick quotes

    The Poet X is a terrific testimony to Elizabeth Acevedo's skilful story-telling as well as her clear talent for poetry.

    The novel is written in verse, but it never feels like a gimmick; instead, it enhances the narrative and the emotional impact.

    The protagonist's journey is both compelling and authentic, resonating with readers on multiple levels.

Literary Fusions · 2019-11-19
great 4.00

The book is both beautiful and heart-wrenching, offering a deep and real look into a teenager's view of herself and her relationships. The emotional depth and authenticity make it a powerful read.

The reviewer at Literary Fusions describes 'The Poet X' as a beautiful yet heart-wrenching exploration of a teenager's journey. The book's emotional depth and authenticity are praised, making it a powerful and relatable read. The protagonist's struggles with identity, religion, and family are portrayed in a way that resonates deeply with the reader. The reviewer appreciates how the book tackles these complex themes with honesty and sensitivity, making it a standout work in young adult literature. The blend of personal and universal issues makes it a compelling and impactful read.

Quick quotes

    The Poet X is beautiful and heart-wrenching at the same time.

    It's a deep and REAL look into a teenager's view of herself, her relationships, and her place in the world.

    The emotional depth and authenticity make it a powerful and relatable read.

The Quiet Pond · 2019-04-23
fantastic 4.75

The book is a tour de force, with Acevedo's words being a force to be reckoned with. It is one of the best books the reviewer has read so far this year.

The reviewer at The Quiet Pond describes 'The Poet X' as a tour de force, with Elizabeth Acevedo's words being a powerful and impactful force to be reckoned with. The book is praised as one of the best the reviewer has read so far this year. The protagonist's journey to find her voice and understand her place in the world is portrayed with depth and authenticity. The reviewer appreciates how the book tackles complex themes like religion, family, and self-expression, making it a relatable and impactful read. The blend of personal and universal issues makes it a standout work in young adult literature.

Quick quotes

    The Poet X is a tour de force, Acevedo's words a force to be reckoned with.

    One of the best books I have read this year so far.

    The protagonist's journey is portrayed with depth and authenticity, making it a relatable and impactful read.

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