Grade 9
Fantasy/SciFi, NarrativeWritingKyla Edwards, originally from Brooklyn, NY, attends New Harmony High. She is a Youtuber, entrepreneur, and aspires to be a millionaire. She has a passion for architecture and has plans on going to the University of California, Los Angeles.
“And that is what Kolantia used to be, the sinking city of New Orleans,” my history teacher, Mr. Thomas, said. All week he had been teaching us that our civilization wasn’t always like it is now and how environmental issues brought us to where we are today. I looked out the window, as a great blue whale passed by. I always liked them, but they were rare these days.
Ringg! “Alright, don’t forget the homework, 1-7.”
Everybody, including me, scrammed out without paying attention to what he said.
My mom had been waiting outside in the sub for 2 hours because I made a mistake and told her that this Friday was a half-a-day, when it was actually next Friday. I knew she was mad, which is why I was trying to hurry.
“Chanel, wait!” Louis said while running down the hall. Louis was tall and chocolate. He always had a fresh haircut with a crisp lining, and his puff was always perfect. Just the right amount of curls and the right amount of fluff.
“You left your headset in class. How were you going to go outside without it?” Louis said laughing.
“I don’t even know. I’m in such a rush, I nearly drowned myself,” I said.
“Well, I’m glad you didn’t,” said Louis. I blushed, put on the headset, and ran into the sublimator where Louis locked it and made sure it was airtight. I looked at him and he gave me a thumbs up.
I opened the last door and a ton of oily water pushed me against the cushion in front of the door.
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by Jeff Carver, New Harmony High, New Orleans & Kyley Pulphus, 826 New Orleans
Young writers imagine a world that has lost their home city due to various threats: environmental, cultural, and supernatural.
by Samantha Wint, Grade 9, 826 Valencia
This poem uses metaphors and similes to explore many dualities of the narrator's life.
by Aniah, 826 MSP
A student is lifted up by the dance of her ancestors.
by Jazmine & Vanessa, 826CHI
Over a series of letters, two compassionate and resilient students develop a deep friendship sealed in writing.
by Jazlyn Moses, 826 National
One student explores their online persona and the lasting importance of conscientious social media practices.
by Caroline, 826 Valencia
A student explores U.S. soccer player Megan Rapinoe’s decision to kneel in protest during the national anthem.
by Sammie, Grade 9, 826 MSP
In this letter from the Essential Words lesson, a freshman at South High School in Minneapolis thanks care workers for supporting our local and national communities during this global pandemic.
by Elizabeth W, 826 Valencia
Even though we may look different, we remain united with one another.
by David & Daniel, 826CHI
In this heartfelt exchange of letters, two students bond over food, videos games, and some scary adventures.
by Jason, 826michigan
Making bottle flipping look like child's play, this piece outlines rules for the new, competitive Fantasy Sport "Pencils".
by Bianca Morcho, 826 MSP
A personal essay that explores the different shades of the Black Lives Matter movement.
by Rey, Grade 9, 826 MSP
Aliens give this student superpowers to help him fulfill his greatest dream.
by Mercury, 826CHI
A student explores the representation of LGBTQIA+ minorities and youth in US pop culture.
by Navayah, 826 MSP
Through redefining a label, a student reclaims a piece of their identity.
by Kevin G, 826 Valencia
This narrative calls us to see the world through the perspectives of others.
by Kalyn Jackson, 826 New Orleans
Through this short story, Kalyn explores ideas of home and change in an altered world.
by Shayne Williams
Discover what one student experiences when they tuck their phone away for a whole day.
by Lucas Hu, 826 Boston
A poem about staying true to yourself during a challenging transition
by Steysi Hailee, 826LA
A student reflects on a small moment and single sacrifice that transformed her outlook on giving.
by Anjum, 826CHI
A shout-out poem to some things missed (Hyderabad) and celebrated (Mom).
by Salma Khalif, 826 MSP
A powerful poem that lifts up Black women.
by Pretty S, 826 Valencia
Peek into the mind of a student who considers artistic influences in her life.
by William, 826LA
A teen discovers the power of books to transport him to another world, and shares his excitement about becoming a published author.
by Sabrin, Grade 9, 826 MSP
In this letter from the Essential Words lesson, 9th grader Sabrin discusses how she feels both happy and sad, and thanks nurses nationwide for bringing her peace through their work.
by Christopher, Bryan, & Jahir, 826CHI
In an exchange of letters, three students across one city share stories about where they came from and the places that matter most.
by Johnny Vasquez, 826 MSP
A family interview reveals a mother's painful past and shines a light on her persistence.
by Christian Z., Age 14, 826 Valencia
A poet recounts his day out at the Yerba Buena Gardens.
by Fahima Dahir, 826 MSP
A poem about the strength and limitations of language and shared culture.
by Mariah Valenzuela, Minneapolis, MN
From the forthcoming anthology, Poets in Revolt!, this poet uses her voice to speak up for those who have been silenced in the indigenous community.
by Charles, 826 MSP
A student reflects on his life, stemming from the life of his father.
by Jonas K., 826 National
A student explores the paradox of how technology is used amongst teenagers.
Yashasa Fluker, Grade 9, 826 New Orleans
A student describes the eeriness of liminal spaces.
by Lisbeth M.F., 826NYC
A story about how Marcus becomes Marcela.
by Samuel Wang, Grade 10, 826NYC
A poem about the complexity of love exchanged during the holidays.
Amara, 826 New Orleans
An ode celebrating an important figure in this student’s life.
by Vanessa Ramon-Ibarra, 826DC
Living in the digital world can create unwanted attachments, as one student laments.
by Maggie Munday Odom, Kailua, HI
This poem personifies Earth as a mother coping with the brutalities of climate change.
by Gilbert, 826LA
One teen writes a letter to his 14-year-old self, citing his past fears but looking towards his present, a brighter future.
by Henry, Matthew, & Santiago, 826CHI
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.
by Ryker, 826michigan
Liner notes that showcase the meaning and musicality of the Jimmy Ruffin song “What Becomes of the Brokenhearted.”
by Calvin, 826michigan
A laugh-out-loud personal narrative about a crush. Has your heart ever beat so fast it might get a speeding ticket and a $500 fine?
by Byanna & Kayla, 826CHI
Two students across one city bond by writing letters to each other about the people they love most.
by Anonymous, Grade 8, 826 Boston
In this poem, a student reflects on identity.
by Sian Laing
When Instagram becomes an unsightly battlefield.
by Soraya, 826NYC
This student’s powerful piece reveals the essence of racial injustice.
by Pia, 826NYC
A student reimagines food justice: Fruit Woman must convince Junk Food Man and Cheesecake Boy to eat their fruits and vegetables.
by Chris O., Age 15, 826 Valencia
A freshman describes their first day of school on their own.
by Reuben & Giselle, 826CHI
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.
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