In third grade, 42 percent of kids report reading for pleasure daily, but by the time they leave middle school, only 17 percent have maintained this habit (Berwick, 2023). Students who struggle with literacy may find books in verse to be less intimidating as they are typically in first person, immersive, impactful, and focused on contemporary concerns (Stringfellow, 2022). The visual accessibility, limited word count, and soothing white space on the page can support readers who struggle with longer works (Dowdy, 2023). Further, the language of poetry can help students develop “understandings of home, culture, and identity” (Wissman, 2019, p. 161). In addition to dedicating class time for student-selected independent reading, keeping a classroom library well-stocked with appealing books, including novels in verse, is key to engaging students. The following list includes brief descriptions of recent novels in verse with content warnings, themes, and reading and interest levels to help you navigate purchasing decisions.