Best Stories in Verse Books of 2025

The One and Only Ruby by Katherine Applegate is a heartwarming middle-grade novel that continues the story of the adorable baby elephant from The One and Only Ivan and The One and Only Bob. The novel features a first-person narrative that highlights the literary devices and story elements used by the author. The book explores the ecological devastation of the ivory trade, the difficulties of being taken away from your homeland, and the horrors of circuses and zoos. Nonetheless, the joy of friendship and the kindness of humans towards animals provide a balance. Overall, this book is a special sequel for animal lovers and an excellent choice for young readers in grades 5 to 8.

The Wonderful Things You Will Be by Emily Winfield Martin is a New York Times bestseller that celebrates the dreams, acceptance, and love that parents have for their children. The book's rhythmic rhyme expresses all the loving things that parents think of when they look at their children. The book is beautifully illustrated with a stunning gatefold that opens at the end. The Wonderful Things You Will Be has a loving and truthful message that will endure for lifetimes and makes a great gift for any occasion. Overall, this book is a go-to gift for new parents and a potential bedtime favorite for many children.

This children's book, titled "Kindergarten, Here I Come!" is a delightful collection of poems that captures the essence of the kindergarten experience. The poems cover everything from the first day of school to the hundredth-day-of-school party, with each moment introduced through a light and humorous poem, accompanied by charming illustrations. The book also includes a sheet of stickers that kids will surely love. Written by D. J. Steinberg and illustrated by Mark Chambers, this book is a perfect tool for parents and kindergarten teachers to introduce children to the joys of school. Overall, "Kindergarten, Here I Come!" is a must-have for any child embarking on their kindergarten journey.

If Animals Kissed Good Night is an adorable children's book that imagines how animals would kiss their loved ones good night. The book is part of a series that includes other titles such as If Animals Said I Love You and If Animals Celebrated Christmas. From giraffes stretching their necks high to sloths moving slowly, every creature shares love in a unique way. The illustrations using soft colors are captivating and the characters radiate unconditional love. This book is a charming bedtime selection that will surely send readers off to a gentle goodnight after a kiss, of course.

Ricky, the Rock That Couldn't Roll by New Paige Press is a heartwarming and hilarious story about the importance of friendship and the power of perseverance. The book follows the story of Ricky, a rock who can't roll because he's flat on one side, and his rock friends who set out to help him roll. Written in verse, this sweet and imaginative picture book teaches children about inclusivity, compassion, and friendship. The book is a great read for children ages 3-11 and is the first of a series featuring the "You Rock Group." Overall, this book is a delightful and empowering read for children.

The book, "How to Catch a Mermaid" by Adam Wallace, is a delightful addition to the How to Catch series. It offers a fun and imaginative under-the-sea adventure for kids aged 4-10. The book is filled with clever rhymes, STEAM-based traps, and plenty of laughs that make it perfect for at-home and classroom read-alouds. Andy Elkerton's illustrations beautifully capture the whimsical and enchanting world of mermaids. Whether as a stocking stuffer or a birthday gift, this book is a must-have for children who love mermaids.

8 Little Planets: A Solar System Book for Kids with Unique Planet Cutouts is a delightful and fact-filled planetary tale from the creator of the Baby University series, Chris Ferrie. The book takes young readers on a journey through the solar system, celebrating the uniqueness of each planet. With playful verse, vibrant and joyful art, and a fun die-cut shape, this book is sure to have astronomers of all ages celebrating their own uniqueness while they party with the planets. Lizzy Doyle's illustrations are cute and engaging, adding to the overall fun of the book. This book is a great addition to any child's library and a perfect tool for teaching kids about our solar system.

How to Catch a Dinosaur is a fun and exciting addition to the How to Catch series by Adam Wallace and Andy Elkerton. The book follows the Catch Club Kids as they try to capture a dinosaur in time for the school science fair and prove that they still exist. The story blends STEAM concepts with humor and chaos, making it perfect for young readers, parents, and educators. The book is a great gift for any occasion and is sure to delight any dinosaur fan. Overall, How to Catch a Dinosaur is a dinomite adventure that will have kids roaring with laughter.

"Oh, Baby, the Places You'll Go!" is a delightful introduction to the world of Dr. Seuss for babies and expectant parents. Author Tish Rabe has adapted Ted Geisel's work into a simple rhymed verse, featuring beloved Seuss characters like the Cat in the Hat, Horton the Elephant, and the Grinch. The book includes a brief introduction by Audrey Geisel, revealing how she and Ted were fascinated by the idea that babies could hear sounds while still in the womb. This book is a perfect way to nurture a love of reading and Dr. Seuss in the very youngest children. It is a wonderful gift for baby showers and newborns.

The Little Blue Box of Bright and Early Board Books by Dr. Seuss is a perfect gift for new mothers or happy occasions. It includes board book editions of classic Dr. Seuss titles like Hop on Pop; Oh, the Thinks You Can Think!; Ten Apples Up On Top!; and The Shape of Me and Other Stuff. These books are ideal for babies to nurture their literacy skills and even chew on! Theodor Seuss Geisel, aka Dr. Seuss, is one of the most beloved children's book authors of all time. His iconic characters, stories, and art style have been a lasting influence on generations of children and adults. Overall, this collection is a great way to introduce young children to Dr. Seuss's world of storytelling and imagination.