The 25th Poet Laureate of the United States, Arthur Sze, once said, “Poetry helps us slow down, deepen our attention, connect and live more fully.” This April, we’re taking his words to heart.
National Poetry Month is the perfect moment to pause, breathe, and let language work its quiet magic. Whether you’re drawn to timeless classics, bold contemporary voices, or even witty poetic parodies, this month’s reading list has something to spark your imagination.
So take a break with us—discover a new poet, revisit an old favorite, or explore a style you’ve never tried before.
Explore Poetry on Hoopla and Libby
April Poetry Picks
Classics & Icons
- Poetry of Robert Frost by Robert Frost A journey through New England landscapes and the quiet questions of everyday life.
- Collected Poems of Langston Hughes by Langston Hughes A powerful, musical, and essential voice of the Harlem Renaissance.
Contemporary Voices
- Maybe the Saddest Thing by Marcus Wicker Energetic, inventive poems that blend pop culture with personal reflection.
- Book of Longing by Leonard Cohen Meditative, intimate work from the legendary songwriter and poet.
- The Trouble with Poetry – and Other Poems by Billy Collins Witty, accessible poems that celebrate the small moments.
- If My Body Could Speak by Blythe Baird A bold, honest collection exploring identity, resilience, and healing.
- Dearly: New Poems by Margaret Atwood A thoughtful, poignant look at memory, aging, and the natural world.
- She Falls Again by Rosanna Deerchild A moving exploration of Indigenous identity, womanhood, and survival.
- Words Like Thunder: New and Used Anishinaabe Prayers by Lois Beardslee A lyrical blend of poetry and storytelling rooted in Anishinaabe tradition.
For Something a Little Different
- The Best of Ogden Nash by Ogden Nash Lighthearted, clever verse perfect for readers who enjoy humor in poetry.
- The Poet X by Elizabeth Acevedo A stunning novel-in-verse about finding your voice and claiming your story.
Whether you’re dipping your toes into poetry for the first time or returning as a longtime fan, we hope these books bring inspiration, comfort, and a moment of stillness to your April.
Blind Date Books
Looking for a surprise pick? Try one of our Blind Date Books this month.
Earn Extra Points for Race 200
Every poetry book title you read in April helps you uncover more “fossils” and brings our community dinosaur one bone closer to completion.