The Poet X

 

    This national acclaimed novel tells the story of a young girl, Ximoara, who is the daughter of Dominican immigrants.  She is growing up with strict Catholic parents where she is conflicted between current society and the beliefs of her parents and church.  They believe in the silence of women, which is appalling to Ximoara.  She also begins to notice her culture of being shamed and the boys never taking blame.  She decides to join a poetry society after school to help her handle her emotions where she meets a boy named Aman.  She decides to kiss him one day, but is caught and brought to her parents where they insult her for her sin. Ximoara is immediately taken to the church to she can receive forgiveness.  She continues to stand up for her beliefs without shame.

    I love the fact that Ximoara is attempting to stand up for her beliefs, try to adapt to her new society, and still tries to include her family in the process.

    Young adults struggle with building relationships with their families, specifically parents as they grow up. This book highlights ways to stand up for yourself, but also offers the outlet for the reader to use poetry and journaling to learn how to handle emotions.

Acevedo, E. (2018).  The poet x.  Harperteen.