Once Upon Tomorrow
By Karen Comer Lothian Children's Books 2026 Reviewed by Dimity Powell Verse novels possess a certain magic that levels up emotion and crystalises conception. Award-winning Aussie author, Karen Comer's Once Upon Tomorrow is just such a lyrical foray into the past, the questionable future and
The Belly of a Wolf
By Julianne Negri Reviewed by Lara Cain Gray Julianne Negri is a CBCA Notable author with middle grade and picture book works in her portfolio. The Belly of a Wolf is her debut YA novel. Written in verse, it explores the devastating
The Kindness Project
By Deborah Abela Reviewed by Helen Gearing Deborah Abela has written over 30 books for children, including the bestselling Max Remy series and the CBCA Notable The Book of Wondrous Possibilities. Abela is also a Writer Ambassador for Room to Read, an
In the Key of Code
by Aimee Lucido reviewed by Mia Macrossan This debut novel combines computers, music and poetry into an original package for young middle grade readers. Told in verse that often roams across the page, takes over, dominates or quivers in a corner, this story
New Reading List – Verse Novels
Verse novels have seen a resurgence in the last couple of years with several new writers choosing to write in verse and winning awards and prizes for their work. While previously novels written in verse were perhaps for a niche readership
Leave Taking
by Lorraine Marwood illustrated by Peter Carnavas reviewed by Danielle Freeland Lorraine Marwood has delivered something very special in this verse novel. When Toby’s parents decide to pack up and leave their family’s farm to start again after the death of their only daughter,
