The books Southern indie booksellers are recommending to readers everywhere!

Stories in Verse

All That Chandni Knows by Khushboo Patel

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All That Chandni Knows by Khushboo Patel
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I truly love a good novel written in verse, and this one is no exception. Chandni’s character carries the burden of a deep secret that she shouldn’t even have to carry. The emotional depth shines as she balances the weight of this secret and the everyday issues of being a middle schooler. Filled with honesty and heart, a great read.

All That Chandni Knows by Khushboo Patel, (List Price: $18.99, G.P. Putnam’s Sons Books for Young Readers, 9798217004485, March 2026)

Reviewed by Jess, Bookmarks in Winston-Salem, NC

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Garvey in the Dark by Nikki Grimes

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Garvey in the Dark by Nikki Grimes
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A sad and touching story in verse set during the first half of 2020. This book is both painful and necessary, I can’t stop thinking about what the kids have lived through and knowing they need books exactly like this to help them process. Thank you Ms. Grimes.

Garvey in the Dark by Nikki Grimes (List Price: $17.99, Wordsong, 9781635925265, October 2022)

Reviewed by Rayna Nielsen, Blue Cypress Books in New Orleans, Louisiana

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Unsettled by Reem Faruqi

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Unsettled
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I love a good novel-in-verse! This book is perfect for any young reader who has arrived at a new school and does not fit in with their new classmates. Nurah’s family has moved from Pakistan to Peachtree City, Georgia, so we get to see her tackle her culture shock and overcome her shyness in order to stand up not only for herself but for others in need.

Unsettled by Reem Faruqi (List Price: $16.99, HarperCollins, 9780063044708, 5/11/2021)

Reviewed by Kate Storhoff, Bookmarks in Winston-Salem, North Carolina

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