My Lit Box Reveal: The Poet X

“You have to find what sparks a light in your life so that you in your own way and illuminate the world.” – Oprah Winfrey

Our YA selection is an age-old story many young women can relate to, a balancing act of shrinking yourself to deflect unwanted attention all the while searching for that spark that helps you find your voice so you can be heard.

The Poet X by Elizabeth Acevedo introduces us to Xiomara Batista, her family and friends through verse that not only reflects the craft Ms. Acevedo is most wildly known for but also the thing that helps Xiomara find her voice. It’s hard not to root for Xiomara as she forges her path that challenges her mother’s strict religious beliefs and expectations and I wanted the items in this month’s box to celebrate her.

There are times in this novel where Xiomara is not afforded the luxury of just being a teenager as she is always on guard against unwanted advances as she and her body mature. But the way she defends herself and serves as her brother’s keeper proves that she is a force to be reckoned with and these “She is fierce” pencils from Could You Please proclaim that.

Teenagers often have the reputation of being difficult just for the hell of it. But every time Xiomara railed against what was expected of her, I didn’t see a child being reckless, I saw someone fighting for something. Whether it’s questioning her faith or sharing her writing with strangers, she rose to the occasion, and this “She believed she could, so she did” bookmark from Wonderflies acknowledges that.

From the beautifully illustrated cover to the last page of this book you’re immersed in poetry, so I had to pay homage to the craft by including a notebook. Whether it’s poetry, quotes, or journal entries, this notebook from Cat Snapp Studio will hold whatever it is you have to give.

Xiomara Batiste is a heroine in every sense of the word. She challenges her faith, family, and friends. She stands up in front of strangers and bears her soul. She truly is fierce.

Until next time.

Sanura is the laugh out loud, solo traveling, book-loving, owner and founder of My Lit Box. When she’s not reading, you’ll find her planning her next adventure. You can follow Sanura’s latest reads and travel on Twitter & Instagram.