NOVELS TOLD IN POETRY FORM

Though I tend to focus on adult fiction, I am always interested in any fiction that is accomplished and interesting. We all have our favorite genres, of course; I tend to especially enjoy short stories and novels. . .I read a great deal, both adults books, as well children's novels. Within the past several years I have become a serious fan, admirer of these short novels told in poetry form.

Most often these novels are found in the Juvenile section of the library, BUT this definitely should not repel readers: some of the best writing can be found in juvenile fiction! Let me share with you here some of my big favorites, beginning with a beautiful book I took on vacation and read while taking a cross-country flight - Reaching for the Sun by Tracie Vaughn Zimmer. this is a short 181 page novel of a Josie, a seventh grade who happens to have cerebral palsy; she lives with her mother and grandmother in a small farmhouse - her rather staid existence is altered as she becomes acquainted with a new neighbor who helps to open her world. A bounty of lovely garden & growth imagery awaits the reader in this affecting, transforming story of interlinked free verse poetry. Interestingly, those who read this book & are not poetry lovers will not realize this is lovely story is all poetry. . .those who love poetry will admire, appreciate, and cherish this. Try it-you'll probably never forget this experience.

I will keep you posted on other novels told in poetry form in just a bit.