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Wellness > Mental Health

5 Poetry Books Every Young Adult Needs to Read

This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at U Maine chapter.

So I’ve been really into reading lately, specifically poetry. I feel that each poem can tell a story with just a few short words, and sometimes can really change your perspective on life. Of course this is a short list and hopefully my library will expand in the future (my bank account included). You can find really good prices for these books and others on barnesandnoble.com. If you’re not sure if it’s worth the cost, BAM (books a million) is also a great store to go to read a couple pages and see if you’re interested. If you’re anything like me, you’ll get stuck there for hours entrapped in the books. I also find it helpful to share books with my friends so that we’re not all buying the same ones. These short “reviews,” if you will, are completely opinion based and meant to share the positive impacts these reads have given me. Happy reading lovelies!

 

1. Milk and Honey by Rupi Kaur

If you haven’t heard of this book, you’re living under a rock. Rupi Kaur became quite famous because of this piece which is still being sold everywhere in the states and nationally. She explores the topics of romantic relationships, family relationships, love, life, and even some deeper ideas. Many of the poems are very heart wrenching and sad but also give you a feeling of comfort in the ups and downs of relationships and the struggles we all face in life. This book is a must have for young women and is helpful in finding and appreciating the beauty in your individuality.

 

2. The Sun and Her Flowers by Rupi Kaur

This book by the same author is Rupi Kaur’s second most famous book. She continues to empower women through her words and help her readers to not feel alone in their situation. Strongly suggest reading both beautiful pieces of work by her as well as exploring her other writing.

 

3. Beautiful and Damned by R. M. Drake

I have to admit I haven’t read his work yet but his book Gravity is on its way to me in the mail right now! His book Beautiful & Damned is most likely inspired by The Beautiful and Damned novel by F. Scott Fitzgerald (same author of The Great Gatsby). @rmdrk on instagram is always posting his unbelievable work with his followers. Even if you don’t buy any of his poetry, I strongly suggest you check out his page. Even one of his poems can be incredibly powerful.

 

4. A Beautiful Composition of Broken by R. H. Sin

Reuben Holmes Sin is a male author who writes his poems with an appreciation for women and empowers them through his writing. He lives with his wife in New York who he constantly is raving about online. His love for her is inspiring. In this book he shares his feelings of hardship from both a male and female perspective, and truly warms your heart with his words. He also has other poetry books that I’d advise you to check out, his work is simply breathtaking and unforgettable.

 

5. The Princess Saves Herself in this One by Amanda Lovelace

Amanda writes this empowering poetry book that is based on the death of her mother and sister. She also touches on many different topics relating to self love, friendship, sexual assault, and grief. She works through the book in three parts: the princess, the damsel, the queen, and you. Her experience through her grief and process of self-love is inspiring and powerful to say the least.

Alpha Phi. Fitness. Aspiring business leader and loyal Miley Cyrus fan.
Mary is a fourth year Ecology and Environmental Science major at the University of Maine, with a concentration in sustainability. Mary loves to read, spend time with her Alpha Phi sisters, cuddle with her cat, and drink coffee. She hopes to save the environment and adopt alllll the kitties.