From the forthcoming anthology, Poets in Revolt!, this poem expresses the realization that a cage is not the only obstacle to a bird's freedom.

In this letter from the Essential Words lesson, 10th grader Tala asks essential workers what motivates them to keep going during these difficult times, offering her own views on hope for the future.

A student reflects on a small moment and single sacrifice that transformed her outlook on giving.

Two students across one city bond by writing letters to each other about the people they love most.

A poem about the complexity of love exchanged during the holidays.

This poem uses metaphors and similes to explore many dualities of the narrator's life.

A freshman describes their first day of school on their own.

In this letter from the Essential Words lesson, a sophomore at South High School in Minneapolis gives thanks to Children’s Hospital employees.

Peek into the mind of a student who considers artistic influences in her life.

When Instagram becomes an unsightly battlefield.

In this rousing poem, a student asserts her strength and worth as a woman.

A student explores the paradox of how technology is used amongst teenagers.

This piece reminds us that a smile is not always what it seems.

A student reflects on his life, stemming from the life of his father.

A poem to the next president of the U.S. demanding change and advocating for transgender rights.

In this memoir, the narrator recounts the struggle of being the bigger person in a very small space.

A powerful poem that lifts up Black women.

A bilingual poem that expresses the love of one's culture and people

Through redefining a label, a student reclaims a piece of their identity.

A student is lifted up by the dance of her ancestors.

Even though we may look different, we remain united with one another.

In this heartfelt exchange of letters, two students bond over food, videos games, and some scary adventures.

Discover what one student experiences when they tuck their phone away for a whole day.

A memoir that questions the idea of home and how it changes with time.

Using dialogue and detailed description, this poet investigates whose voices are heard and whose voices are left behind when injustice occurs.

A student recalls their journey on how they discovered their LGBTQIA+ identity.

A poem for lovers of love and the moon.

Living in the digital world can create unwanted attachments, as one student laments.

This student’s powerful piece reveals the essence of racial injustice.

A soccer-filled, feud-fueled memoir.

Two students write to each other about where they came from, what they love, and a few mishaps along the way in an exchange of letters.

The written word is a powerful tool, and this poem shares a few reasons why the author continues to write.

A compilation of letters written by three students across one city filled with thoughts on books, sports, music, family, and musings on Valentine’s Day.

In this poem, a student’s experiences in two countries meld together as she seeks out her true home.

A student considers realistic happy endings and the representation of LGBTQIA+ youth through the analysis of two webcomics.

One student explores their online persona and the lasting importance of conscientious social media practices.

Liner notes that showcase the meaning and musicality of the Jimmy Ruffin song “What Becomes of the Brokenhearted.”

A personal essay that explores the different shades of the Black Lives Matter movement.

A neighborhood ode filled with sights and sounds of the poet's street.

The stunning and vulnerable poem processes feelings of loss, grief, and hope for the future.

This poet rejects judgement based on the color of one’s skin.

This poem gives insight to what it's like growing up Black in America.

A student reflects on her origins to deconstruct social borders and seize her boundless future.

A family interview reveals a mother's painful past and shines a light on her persistence.

A poem about staying true to yourself during a challenging transition

A bilingual "I am" poem filled with conviction and courage.

In an exchange of letters, three students across one city share stories about where they came from and the places that matter most.

In this poem, a student reflects on their roots and their desire to grow.

This narrative calls us to see the world through the perspectives of others.

A student compellingly argues that immigrants deserve respect and to be free of discrimination.

A story about how Marcus becomes Marcela.

This poem personifies Earth as a mother coping with the brutalities of climate change.