Dear Mothman: A Novel in Verse

Poet and author Robin Gow’s moving middle-grade novel-in-verse about a young trans boy dealing with the loss of his friend by writing to his favorite cryptid, Mothman A few months ago, Noah’s best friend and the only other trans boy in his school, Lewis, passed away in a car accident. Feeling lost and alone, Noah starts writing letters to Mothman, Lewis’s favorite cryptid, wondering if he would understand how Noah feels. At first, Noah isn’t sure whether he actually believes in Mothman—not like Lewis did. But when strange things start to happen around his wooded home, Noah wonders whether there might be something to the stories. He decides to make his science fair project about Mothman, despite his teacher’s urging to study something “real.” As Noah’s mind begins to open, so does his world. He makes friends with a group of girls in his grade and finally feels like he belongs. But most people are not so accepting, and he has no evidence to prove that Mothman exists. With the science fair looming closer, Noah decides to risk everything, trek into the woods, and find Mothman himself. Moving and lyrical, Dear Mothman is a story about finding belonging and hope in the most unexpected places. “A hauntingly moving examination of grief, friendship, and identity, reminiscent of my favorite classics. Robin Gow has a magic with words, stirring and shining a light on the deepest of emotions, leaving behind goosebumps (and tears) for Noah’s story. This book is a gift.” —Kacen Callender, author of the National Book Award winner King and the Dragonflies

About the Author :
Robin Gow is a poet, educator, and witch from rural Pennsylvania. It is the Director of the Education Institute at Bradbury-Sullivan LGBT Community Center and author of critically acclaimed books for children and young adults including Dear Mothman, Ode to My First Car, and A Million Quiet Revolutions. Fae lives with his partner and their many lovely pets. Fae enjoys wandering in the woods and any kind of arts and crafts.

Review :
“A hauntingly moving examination of grief, friendship, and identity, reminiscent of my favorite classics. Robin Gow has a magic with words, stirring and shining a light on the deepest of emotions, leaving behind goosebumps (and tears) for Noah’s story. This book is a gift.” “Dear Mothman gives us all the chance to step out of the shadows—when we’re ready. Gow has crafted a story full of secrets, sadness, and the gentle thrill of knowing who you are.” “This tender story explores the emotional journey of navigating loss and feelings of being different. It illuminates the power of friendship, imagination, and compassion to make a person feel celebrated for exactly who they are. An important heart-book that will make young readers feel seen and understood.” ***STARRED REVIEW*** “At times thrilling and always moving, Gow's middle-grade debut is unquestionably a must-have for all collections.” ***STARRED REVIEW*** “A ­triumphant coming-of-age story about gender identity, strength, and friendship, as well as the different ways that people ­discover who they are.” Gow captures the complexity of emotions that arise amid grief and self-discovery. . .Poignant and sincere. “Gow beautifully blends verse with epistolary storytelling in this touching novel of a trans kid trying to search for answers about identity and belonging.” “Noah’s journey through grief and coming out to the world is authentically messy and joyful.”