The Pools

Lexie and Chester's love story is unlike any you've ever read: a contemporary fairy tale of depression, anxiety, loss, and the first love that consumes you. A stunning poetic achievement. Kathleen Glasgow, #1 New York Times bestselling author of Girl in Pieces

E. Lockhart writes with a courage that intimidates and inspires me. With The Pools, she s done it again! Jason Reynolds, #1 New York Times bestselling author of Long Way Down

"The cinematic, poetic writing features scenes of heartbreak, horror, and devotion, culminating in a gorgeous Technicolor finale. Come for the romance; stay for the artistry." Kirkus Reviews, starred review

"Lockhart narrates in an inspired combination of free verse, found poems, and more formal poetic structures. The effect is mesmerizing and dramatic, allowing this tender and unusual love story to unfold like a medieval ballad meant to be read aloud or told and retold." The Horn Book, starred review

"A lyrical, genre-blending exploration of devotion and grief, using a mix of ­poetry and prose to propel a fairy-­tale ­inspired romance....An ethereal weave of folklore and modern yearning." School Library Journal

"Striking....a brisk and cleverly conceived novel that successfully straddles realism and fantasy." Publishers Weekly

"Lockhart explores loneliness, first love, and mental health with poetic tenderness....Sure to float well with fans of verse and slightly askew fantasy." Booklist

"Lockhart relies on the detached assurance of fairy tales and a deft emotional touch to take the improbable and make it improbably beautiful." BookPage