The Poet X is a powerful coming-of-age novel written in verse, following Xiomara Batista, a Dominican-American teenager growing up in Harlem. Xiomara feels unheard in her strict religious household, where her mother expects her to be obedient and devoted. But when she discovers slam poetry, she finds a way to express her thoughts, frustrations, and dreams.

As Xiomara secretly joins her school’s poetry club, she begins to question the expectations placed on her—by her family, her culture, and society. Through poetry, she gains the confidence to speak her truth, navigate her first romance, and explore her identity in a world that often tries to silence her.

Why Read This Book

• A deeply emotional and beautifully written novel told through verse.
• Explores themes of identity, family expectations, faith, and self-expression.
• Captures the struggles of being a young woman caught between cultural traditions and personal aspirations.
• Winner of multiple prestigious awards, including the CILIP Carnegie Medal and the National Book Award for Young People's Literature.
• Perfect for fans of The Hate U Give and Clap When You Land.

About the Author

Elizabeth Acevedo is a Dominican-American poet and author known for her lyrical and compelling storytelling. A National Poetry Slam champion, she brings her passion for spoken word into her novels. Her other works include With the Fire on High and Clap When You Land, both of which explore themes of identity, family, and resilience.