The Poet X is a realistic fiction novel that is written in verse. It is about 15-year-old Xiomara Batista, a gifted poet who lives with her family in Harlem, NY. The novel is from Xiomara's point of view and reads like her personal journal of poetry describing her life, her views on religion, having to face constant sexism, her strict Dominican parents, her new forbidden boyfriend, and navigating the world as a young woman of color trying to find her voice.
Students can compare and contrast characters from The Poet X by Elizabeth Acevedo with a Venn Diagram!
Storyboard Text
The Poet X
PoetFemaleConflicts with MamíQuestions the ChurchTrouble in school Close with her teacherEndures sexual harassmentLoves AmanSearching for her voice
Character Comparison: Xiomara vs. Xavier (Twin)
Live with Mami & Papi in HarlemBest friends with CaridadTwins! Try to be there for each other
Loves science and wins awardsMaleMamí is much easier on himLoves the Church and actively participatesExcels in school Endures homophobiaLoves CodySearching for the courage to be true to himself