Content area
Historical novels in verse have made a significant contribution to children's literature. Novels in verse appeal to teenage readers especially. There is some debate as to whether many of these novels should be classified as poetry. Historical fiction in general is growing and is in much demand. The Introduction of this dissertation covers a general discussion of novels in verse for young readers and the complicated parameters of this growing genre. Then historical fiction for young readers is discussed, with a focus on historical novels in verse. The complexities of combining history and fiction are explored. Examples from published historical novels in verse are studied for a further look at this genre. I then explore my own experience writing a historical novel in verse for young readers about slavery, relating the experience to the context of the above discussions.
Finally, Kindling, Ashes: A Novel in Verse follows the Introduction. This historical novel in verse is set mainly between 1740 and 1741 in New Jersey. I attempted to create a variety of personal experiences and unique voices. It is my hope that the characters' stories pull the reader into their inner worlds of thought as well as provide a look into a past community in conflict. All of the events and characters are fictional. Any similarities to real people are coincidental. I feel strongly, though, that these characters and their stories are relevant to the past and the present.