With every verse novel I read, I find myself drawn more and more to their power and how they get to the heart of a story.
Kai is clearly going through a rough time at home. It isn’t until you get through part of the story, that you understand what has happened. Jen, Kai’s sister has run away and the family have visitation days with her, where feelings are meant to be shared but what actually happens is more of a silent, bottling up of emotions.
Kai is placing blame on himself for Jen leaving and this blame is causing him to tug on his hair, be distracted in school and feel inferior at home and school.
When his teacher, Mr P, gets the class to begin writing poetry about themselves, Kai is reluctant but a boost from the teacher finds him pouring his heart onto the page and admitting his fault.
It is cathartic and allows Kai to see things more clearly.
Towards the end, there are some emotional scenes and they left me with tears rolling down my face. A beautiful, heartfelt story!
My Shelves Are Full 