Once there were three cousins. Two were eleven years old and one was seven years old. They moved to a cottage in Mexico for the first time. One day, they decided to have a picnic near the lake in front of their home. Then it started getting very sunny! They heard flaps like a bird flapping its wings, and it was a group of different types of butterflies. One even landed in the youngest’s hair. The butterflies then made themselves a home in the girls’ garden!
Then the girls cleaned up and went inside their home. They opened the windows because it got really hot in their house. Then all of a sudden some butterflies were flying in through the windows! The middle girl (me, Raquel) got cold and closed all the windows. It was already night!
Then they decided to bake a cake the next day after breakfast. They made this three-layer, pastel, purple cake with a little garden on top, but then a few butterflies landed on the cake. The girls loved how it looked so they made paper butterflies and got some toothpicks to hold the butterflies still. The girls loved how it turned out and took many pictures!
Then they took it to their friend who was a baker and they took care of butterflies. He owned his own bakery! They gave it to him and everyone wanted it. Everyone tried to offer hundreds of dollars for it but it was there for a day in a fridge but then was sold to someone. Then they made more for other customers. This cake is for any occasion: weddings, birthdays, anniversaries, and baby showers! Their cake became internet famous all over the world!
by Jesús, 826 Valencia
In this superhero story, Spyman is on an important mission—saving donuts from becoming bagels!
by Natalie, 826 Valencia
A recipe for how to create a legendary rapper.
by Kenneth Vasquez, Age 10, 826 Valencia
A student reflects on their love of soccer.
by Dahlia-Rose, 826NYC
A field guide to Queen Anne’s Lace and a day in the life from a flower’s perspective.
by Erriyanna, 826michigan
An epic poem about a younger sister. English and Spanish versions included.
by Yaretzi, 826LA
In this resolution inspired by the "Include Someone" lesson and Cartoon Network storyboard, we learn how a thoughtful surprise can brighten a friend's day.
by Clara, 826 Valencia
A detailed design for a new school that students would love, complete with outdoor spaces for tennis and ice-skating!
by Felix E., 826 Valencia
A student's fear is conquered after a startling discovery.
by Brayan Luna, 826michigan
In this poem, a student vividly recounts watching The Undertaker perform a signature chokeslam on WrestleMania. Written in Spanish and English.
by Matthew, 826CHI
Originally written and recorded as a podcast, these two unlikely heroes and the technological crisis of year 3016 will have you gripping the edge of your seat!
by Keila S.O., 826michigan
An “I Am From” poem about growing up in Detroit.
by Kelis, 826michigan
This student describes what it would be like to become the first female president, campaigning on education for all, friendlier attitudes, more food and housing, and snow days!
by Selene Freudenberg, 826michigan
This hero’s journey leads an unlikely suspect into a land of books with a plot-disrupting villain who must be destroyed in order to save a multitude of characters, including Harry Potter!
by Meredith, 826michigan
A poem about globe-sized dreams.
by Damian A., Grade 4, 826CHI
A student describes their bear-y fun imaginary friend.
by Levi, 826NYC
An origin story for healthy food, involving an epic battle between purveyor of high-fructose corn syrup, Ronald McDonald, and a heroic band of chefs.
by Fatima, 826michigan
A list poem about a beautiful room and a beautiful family in both English and Spanish.
by Jack, Grade 5, 826 New Orleans
In this transcript, a student shares three clear actions to stand up to bullies.
by Antoni L., 826DC
In this poem, the author discusses their origins through metaphor.
Dominick Contreras Rodriguez, age 9, 826 Valencia
A student traces his identity through food and family.
by Simone, 826michigan
A poem about appreciating trees and why we should study them.
by Natalie, 826CHI
A spirit named Janet haunts a dance studio as five young dancers arm themselves with a vacuum, a bottle, and the internet.
by Marisa, 826NYC
A student reports on Islamophobia, using research and interviews to explore this mindset and its damaging repercussions.
by Yarely, 826michigan
A poem about grandma. English and Spanish versions included.
by Kevin, 826LA
A letter from the author to the author on appreciating both the unconventional and conventional parts of oneself.
by Robert, 826CHI
A poem that explores the struggles of mine workers.
by Penelope, 826 Valencia
In this superhero story, Super Duper Scarlet must save San Fran Superland from Doctor Nefario!
Noah Jean Marie, Age 9, 826 NYC
A poet captures the freedom of dancing.
by K.M., 826DC
In this piece, a student describes the challenges of being a superhero and reflects on their power to shine.
Perla Ortega, Age 9, 826 Valencia
A poet sweetly appreciates a teacher for her kindness.
by Liliana, 826DC
This student’s heartbreaking personal narrative describes what it can feel like to have your parents get divorced.
by Alan, 826DC
This poem describes the thoughts of hunger.
by Kayamaghi, 826NYC
A lab experiment goes wrong and a humble scientist must save Superhero Land from a super speedy villain!
by Kaitlyn, 826NYC
A creation myth reimagined in a poem.
by Kelis, 826NYC
On the planet Mars, Zoe must defeat the supervillain Zygorn to avenge her family! Wait—was it all a dream?
by Pearl L., Age 10, 826DC
A story about Rory the dragon, the defender of all genders.
by Ehmely, 826CHI
A crucial missive for anyone playing a high-stakes game of "Hide and Seek".
by Ramatoulie, 826DC
A student shares memories of transitioning from Gambia to a new home in the United States, complete with a snowy encounter.
by Athena, 826NYC
An "I Am From" superhero persona poem.
by Kevin J. Ortiz, 826DC
A personal narrative about a trip to Ocean City, a lonely puppy, and sharing our fears with others.
by Charlie, 826michigan
A very scientific retelling of why dinosaurs went extinct.
by Claire, 826CHI
A poem about “unfinding” what was known and learning to explore.
by Vanessa, 826CHI
A story about a mermaid named Luna and the epic battle to save Benzo, a rainbow-colored kingdom, using the power of love.
by Hope L.C., Age 10, 826DC
A silly story about dragon fruits -- no wait, fruit dragons!
by Ava Tassinari, 826 Boston
A story about a bullying incident on the school bus.
Ms. Lowe’s Fourth Grade Class at Roberto Clemente Learning Academy in Detroit, Michigan
An example of a "Neighborhood Poem" created as a class as part of 826Michigan's Rare Air/Aire Raro Young Authors' Book Project.
by Alyssa, Kevin, Gustavo, Jocelyn, and Gabriel, 826LA
In science class, Victoria the Manticore makes fun of Carla the Witch for using magic, and a few bystanders step in to take a stand against bullying.
by Stefany Moreira, Vivi Small, Ana Rosas, Eugenia Rosas, and Jason Carrillo, 826NYC
This poem describes a warmer, tastier world run by young people.
by Elaine, 826 Boston
A diary entry reflecting on a secret mission to Mars!
by Will, 826michigan
A student imagines life in the future.
by Aiden Spence, Grade 3, 826NYC
This poem describes all of the reasons why green is the best color.
by Robert, 826CHI
A collection of haikus spanning books and cosmology.
by Juna, 826michigan
A poem about taking the world in—and letting go.
by Athena, 826NYC
In this poem, a student explores both the seen and unseen powers of a superhero.
by Marco, 826LA
A screenplay about a plane crash and an epic journey to Mexico, with a twist!
by Rechab T., 826DC
This poem takes a surreal approach to describing a scene.
by Sumaya, 826 MSP
This poem uses analogies to describe different objects the writer would like to be.
Nur Schlenker, Age 10, 826 Valencia
A student paints two images, one of Halloween night, and the second of home.
by Walter Linares, Age 11, 826 Valencia
The secrets of a spy in a red venom suit unfold...
by Norah, Grade 5, 826DC
A student describes her mystical worm imaginary friend.
by Oscar, 826CHI
The story of a lifetime—literally.
by Jekaya, 826 Boston
A student reflects on what it takes to stand up to bullies and speak up for others.
by Abdikabir, age 8, 826 MSP
This poem uses the 1st person point-of-view to show what life looks like for a timber rattlesnake.
by Maria, 826 Valencia
This student gives thanks to ordinary objects in an ode.
by Maribel O.G., Grade 4, 826 Valencia
In this story, a student gets to know a new teacher and discovers that things are not always as they seem.
by Caira N., Grade 5, 826NYC
A student lists all the reasons why her school is the best!
by Javier, 826DC
A student wishes for unexpected pops of color.
Dylan Sanderson, Grade 5, 826 NYC
A student dreams of the most joyful place in the world--somewhere with their family and money!
by Olivia, 826NYC
An elegy for corn.
Elsie, 826 New Orleans
In this poem, a student celebrates individuality.
by Mohamed F., 826 MSP
This poem uses descriptive language to leave the reader clues about the animal it is depicting.
by Girod, 826 New Orleans
This celebratory poem uses similes to list all of the things the writer loves about themself.
by Keila, 826michigan
An "I A From" poem. English and Spanish versions included.
by Ana, 826DC
A student learns an important lesson about staying calm while recounting a trip to Olive Garden that spiraled out of control!
by Victor, 826 Valencia
An ode to Beans, Rice, and Chicken.
Nasir Farmer, Age 8, 826 Boston
Our protagonist attempts to evade a boogieman invasion.
by Daphne, 826 Valencia
A girl named Chloe embarks on a heroic mission after discovering a new super-identity: Fluffy Justice!
by Ximena Torres, Age 9, 826 Valencia
A poem about the lessons your family can teach you.
by Uma, 826NYC
A witty set of foolproof pickup lines.
by Charm R., Grade 5, 826 New Orleans
This poem tells the story of a courageous little bird.
by Johny, 826 LA
A riveting interview with Godzilla, Superman, and Dragonbolt—a cast of characters that will try to outdo one another before this TV special is up.
by Salma, Grade 5, 826 Boston
A student reminds herself of the many ways she shines
by Violeta, 826CHI
A monster's routine trip for tuna sandwich ingredients results in a broken arm!
by Abdinasir, 826 MSP
This poem shares what someone might experience on Halloween.
by Lina, 826 Valencia
A mischievous recipe calling for 3 tablespoons of candy, 10 gallons of not laughing, and 100 gallons of mother.
by Jonathan Rivera Navarro, 826 Valencia
This poem celebrates and mourns a taco.
by Christian, 826 New Orleans
This poem uses personification to introduce the audience to an olive and its cousin, Jeff.
by Elian de Leon, 826NYC
A poem that focuses on color and translates it into sensory details.
by Ayelen C., Age 9, 826 Valencia
A student's sweet letter to their grandmother.
by Joseline, 826DC
A personal narrative about a teensie, tiny bit of jealousy for a new baby sister turning into love.
by Quinn, 826CHI
A piece that explores the dynamic nature of love and might just become your next Valentine's Day card.
by Lyric White, age 10, 826 Valencia
A magical mountain quest to save a mermaid.
Ren, 826 New Orleans
In this poem, a student explores what summer means to them.
by Donald W., Grade 4, 826michigan
A student describes their very helpful imaginary friend.
by Caleigh, 826LA
A letter offering a concise yet compelling list of all that awaits in LA.
by Jeffrey, 826DC
In this "I Wish" poem, written in both Spanish and English, a student dreams of a more colorful world.
by Milo, 826NYC
A creative origin story in which a programmer simultaneously creates life and biology in a program.
by Joshua, 826CHI
Alien monsters and a young boy forge a friendship over a dramatic series of events.
by Jalen, 826NYC
A series of superhero haiku inspired by engineering secret lairs.
by Lux, 826NYC
A student reflects on their experiences with bullying and how they’ll take a stand in the future.
by Angel Flores Vazquez, 826 Valencia
This poem illustrates the effectiveness of descriptive language.
by Faisa, age 9, 826 MSP
This poem writes from the perspective of a Prairie Shooting Star flower, detailing a day in its life.
by Talia, 826NYC
A creative field guide to Sea Lettuce.
by Camilla S.R., Grade 5, 826 Valencia
A student describes her imaginary friend from Funky Town.
by Naomi, 826michigan
A (mostly) love letter to a kiwi with delicious imagery.
by Alexa, 826michigan
A poem that tastes like pepperoni pizza.
by Marisa, 826michigan
A series of tweets about an adventurous cat named Marcus. #SuperCat #Meow
by Muawiye, 826 Boston
In this resolution inspired by the "Include Someone" lesson and Cartoon Network storyboard, we learn that the act of inclusion begins with feeling empathy.
by Giannyl Guerrero Cabral, 826 Boston
A practical list of ways anyone can stop bullying.
Vivien Norton, Age 12, 826michigan
A poet explores their love for writing with their friend.
by Kayla, 826LA
This author reflects on an act of kindness to someone in need.
by Elena Chambers, 826michigan
Thinking of Cherry Coke lip gloss, community, and dancing, this narrator celebrates life from their front stoop.
by Emma D., Grade 4, 826LA
A plea to the next President to provide better access to mental health treatment for youth.
by Eric, 826CHI
This student recounts a fictional chat with George Washington about the American Revolution over a meal.
by Winta, 826DC
A concise but essential list of survival tips in the event of a sweet disaster.
by Smila H., Age 10, 826LA
A powerful acrostic poem that shares an encouraging message.
by Kathryn, 826NYC
A very scientific origin poem about french fries, starting with an argument between the sun and the moon.
by Madison, 826 New Orleans
This poem leaves the reader descriptive clues to help them guess the mystery food.
by Chelsea, 826NYC
An academically-inclined student passes on their favorite tips for having fun before fifth grade starts.
by Marie, 826CHI
A monkey named Chesley saves the animals of the forest from an evil Master!
Raven, 826 New Orleans
You guessed it—an ode to cookies.
by Zari P., Grade 4, 826DC
A playful "I am" poem that explores what's possible.
by Ciaran, 826NYC
A creative field guide to a Mourning Cloak butterfly who lives in New York City.
by Salimatou, 826NYC
Together, a princess with superpowers and an orphan-turned-sidekick must save the king and queen of kingdom Atarica!
by Camila R.G., Grade 4, 826LA
In this letter, a student asks the next U.S. President to help the homeless.
by Ivan Newton Ponce, 826 Valencia
This poem uses sensory details to describe the writer's favorite places.
by Natalia, 826CHI
A story told by her grandfather leads Betty on a journey where fiction and reality collide.
by Victor, 826 Valencia
This student gives thanks to ordinary objects in an ode.
by Zaid Rodriguez, 826 Valencia
This story immerses the reader in sensory details to tell the tale of what lies behind a mysterious door.
by Alongkorn, 826 New Orleans
In this resolution inspired by the "Include Someone" lesson and Cartoon Network storyboard, we learn that unlike wasabi gummies, there is no expiration date for making amends.
by Luis Cornejo, age 9, 826 Valencia
A student recalls the first time they saw a ghost.
by Dy’Stonie V., Grade 5, 826 New Orleans
A poem that highlights the bond between grandparent, grandchild, and a sweet perfume.
by Reyes, 826NYC
A creative field guide to the eastern gray squirrel.
by Jaceon B., Grade 4, 826 New Orleans
A student describes their butter covered imaginary friend.
by Maia Sears, 826michigan
This student describes exciting things the future will bring, like elevators that can reach space!
by Emmanuel, 826DC
A personal narrative about a tender first sighting between brothers on a family trip to El Salvador.
by Marvin, Grade 5, 826CHI
A troubled ghost haunts a boy’s dreams.
by Yanni, 826NYC
This poem is written in the style of William Carlos Williams’ “This is Just to Say” and celebrates small acts of unapologetic joy.
by L.M., 826CHI
The story of a lonely ghost named Annabeth, a plan to kidnap children on Halloween, and an unlikely encounter that reveals the true nature of friendship.
Roberto Misael Aguilera, Age 9, 826 Valencia
Discover the fearful T-Rex Koala--koala by day, monster by night!
by Benny, 826 Boston
Inspired by Jeff Kinney's Diary of a Wimpy Kid, this piece contains a series of journal entries and rules for a new sport by fictitious NASA operative Agent Smitty.
by Alfredo Enriquez-Aguilar, 826 Valencia
Have you ever wanted to care for a dragon? This poem teaches you how.
by Marisol, 826michigan
A young girl's poem about all the life she sees in her yard. English and Spanish versions included.
by Hanako M., Age 10, 826michigan
A "sense"-sational poem about the flowers in their yard.
by Noel, 826 Valencia
The creation story of a new school, reimagined to improve learning. (Paid for by Taylor Swift with free water bottles, an Italian restaurant, a movie theater, and a comfortable and safe environment.)
by Luana Anticona Nolasco, age 10, 826 Valencia
An eerie encounter with a shapeshifter after a grocery run.