Truth Is: A Novel in Verse

Truth is pregnant and separated from the father. She fears what her mother will think, as her mother also had a baby young, something she reminds Truth of every. Single. Day. Truth’s best friend urges Truth to tell her mother, but Truth is tired of being told what to do and how to live her life, so she does some research on her options, deciding that an abortion is her best choice. In the meantime, Truth works on her poetry, preparing a heartbreakingly personal piece to share at a poetry slam, while hoping to gain a place at the university, even though she’s heard so many times that she is just not smart enough. When her piece goes viral, everyone knows about her choice, but the truth is, she doesn’t care. Her decision wasn’t easy, but it was hers.

Through poetry and journal entries and prompts, readers see life through Truth’s eyes. It is bleak and it is sad, but she remains hopeful in spite of the difficulties. Her journey from judgmental and privileged best friend to new supportive, loving friends brings hope and healing to Truth’s senior year. The exploration of choice, mother/child relationships, and finding freedom is powerful.