There was an iron ball
surrounded by darkness and
the only light was the stars.
Then one day, the sun and the moon came to
visit. Light shone and the sky came. The sun
dropped its suitcase full of dirt and it spread all
over. The moon dropped its suitcase full of water
and wet the land. They liked what they’ve done
and decided to stay. They called this place
“Earth”.
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by Khari Garris, New York, NY
A student remembers what life was like before the COVID-19 pandemic, and imagines a brighter day when schools reopen.
by Claire, 826CHI
A poem about “unfinding” what was known and learning to explore.
by Valary K., Grade 6, 826 MSP
A story about a mysterious tunnel that leaves you on the edge of your seat!
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 Kayamaghi, 826NYC
A lab experiment goes wrong and a humble scientist must save Superhero Land from a super speedy villain!
by Armaan, 826CHI
This author recounts the beginning of a family tradition: the best homemade sandwich ever!
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 Lyric White, age 10, 826 Valencia
A magical mountain quest to save a mermaid.
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 Naomi, 826michigan
A (mostly) love letter to a kiwi with delicious imagery.
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 Stefany Moreira, Vivi Small, Ana Rosas, Eugenia Rosas, and Jason Carrillo, 826NYC
This poem describes a warmer, tastier world run by young people.
by Uma Cantone, 826NYC
Ever wonder what would happen if the sky fell? This student uses metaphor to explore new beginnings.
by Natalie, 826 Valencia
A recipe for how to create a legendary rapper.
by Marie, 826CHI
A monkey named Chesley saves the animals of the forest from an evil Master!
by Dahlia-Rose, 826NYC
A field guide to Queen Anne’s Lace and a day in the life from a flower’s perspective.
A writer's fake news article about a miracle drug that can cure anything.
A writer's fake news article about a miracle drug that can cure anything.
by Victor, 826 Valencia
This student gives thanks to ordinary objects in an ode.
by Kathryn, 826NYC
A very scientific origin poem about french fries, starting with an argument between the sun and the moon.
by Olivia, 826NYC
An elegy for corn.
by Natalia, 826CHI
A story told by her grandfather leads Betty on a journey where fiction and reality collide.
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 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 Mady, 826 Valencia
A student examines the mermaid industry today through a historical lens that begins in the late-nineteenth century, turning fantasy into a profession.
by Victor, 826 Valencia
An ode to Beans, Rice, and Chicken.
by Kevin, 826LA
A letter from the author to the author on appreciating both the unconventional and conventional parts of oneself.
by Destiny, 826NYC
In this poem, a student contrasts conflicting perspectives on the construction of the Dakota Access Pipeline.
by Walter Linares, Age 11, 826 Valencia
The secrets of a spy in a red venom suit unfold...
by Athena, 826NYC
An "I Am From" superhero persona poem.
Dominick Contreras Rodriguez, age 9, 826 Valencia
A student traces his identity through food and family.
by Salimatou, 826NYC
Together, a princess with superpowers and an orphan-turned-sidekick must save the king and queen of kingdom Atarica!
by Lina, 826 Valencia
A mischievous recipe calling for 3 tablespoons of candy, 10 gallons of not laughing, and 100 gallons of mother.
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 K.M., 826DC
In this piece, a student describes the challenges of being a superhero and reflects on their power to shine.
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 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 Felix E., 826 Valencia
A student's fear is conquered after a startling discovery.
by Jacore, 826 Valencia
An intriguing and educational essay discussing environmental consciousness and the devastating effects of global warming.
by Faisa Y., Grade 6, 826MSP
A student describes their comfort fairy imaginary friend.
by Angelina Do, Grade 6, 826 Valencia
A poem about living in the space between two cultures.
by Madison, 826 New Orleans
This poem leaves the reader descriptive clues to help them guess the mystery food.
by Ehmely, 826CHI
A crucial missive for anyone playing a high-stakes game of "Hide and Seek".
by Zari P., Grade 4, 826DC
A playful "I am" poem that explores what's possible.
by Aiden Spence, Grade 3, 826NYC
This poem describes all of the reasons why green is the best color.
by John, 826NYC
A creative commentary on food justice in which Digestive Man defends local farms from Corn Boy and the Factory Farmers!
by Luis, 826LA
A rap song dedicated to the Marvel comic writer Stan Lee and his inspired creations like the Hulk, Deadpool, Iron Man, and The Fantastic Four.
Jaylin Guevarro, Grade 6, 826NYC
A poet admires their loved one through this warming ode.
by Meredith, 826michigan
A poem about globe-sized dreams.
by Uma, 826NYC
A witty set of foolproof pickup lines.
by Milo, 826NYC
A creative origin story in which a programmer simultaneously creates life and biology in a program.
by Claire Leiva, Grade 6, 826michigan
A poem about the writer's favorite animal--corgis!
by Jin, 826LA
This student says thank you to her Mom, her hero, for a life full love and beef noodles!
by Khloe Fewster, 826 Valencia
This poem uses repetition to give advice for when you're feeling unsure of yourself.
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 Salma, Grade 5, 826 Boston
A student reminds herself of the many ways she shines
by Joseline, 826DC
A personal narrative about a teensie, tiny bit of jealousy for a new baby sister turning into love.
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 Ivan Newton Ponce, 826 Valencia
This poem uses sensory details to describe the writer's favorite places.
by Hope L.C., Age 10, 826DC
A silly story about dragon fruits -- no wait, fruit dragons!
by Norah, Grade 5, 826DC
A student describes her mystical worm imaginary friend.
by Daphne, 826 Valencia
A girl named Chloe embarks on a heroic mission after discovering a new super-identity: Fluffy Justice!
by Eric, 826CHI
This student recounts a fictional chat with George Washington about the American Revolution over a meal.
by Ayana A., Grade 6, 826NYC
by Jeffrey, 826DC
In this "I Wish" poem, written in both Spanish and English, a student dreams of a more colorful world.
by Wayne Gillyard, 826 Valencia
This poem shares the writer's love of all things yellow.
by Elaine, 826 Boston
A diary entry reflecting on a secret mission to Mars!
by Elsy, 826LA
Song lyrics about memories of cake and pizza, friendship, and giving 1,000 opinions.
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 Javier, 826DC
A student wishes for unexpected pops of color.
by Marco, 826LA
A screenplay about a plane crash and an epic journey to Mexico, with a twist!
by Juna, 826michigan
A poem about taking the world in—and letting go.
by 826NYC students Ash Doliber, Sidney Edelson, Ella Holland, Mavis Lu, Justin Nemeroff, Bird Rzepniewski, and Isabella Wu
This collaborative poem explores the many sides and senses of laughter.
by Amaya, 826michigan
A letter devoted to a favorite fruit that’s sweet and sour just like this student’s favorite candy: Sour Patch Kids!
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 Harrison, 826michigan
A recursive poem that helps students explore the potential connections between math fractals and verse.
by Dy’Stonie V., Grade 5, 826 New Orleans
A poem that highlights the bond between grandparent, grandchild, and a sweet perfume.
by Girod, 826 New Orleans
This celebratory poem uses similes to list all of the things the writer loves about themself.
by Renee, 826NYC
A poem that explores all that a tree can stand for.
by Leslie, 826NYC
In this imaginative narrative about food justice, Golden Girl and LoLo go up against the evil Chemical Bug so kids everywhere can eat healthy fruits and vegetables.
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 Jesús, 826 Valencia
In this superhero story, Spyman is on an important mission—saving donuts from becoming bagels!
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 Evelyn Escamilla, 826 Valencia
This poem uses metaphors and similes to describe happiness.
by Abdinasir, 826 MSP
This poem shares what someone might experience on Halloween.
by Alondra, 826CHI
An epic story of a princess who seeks acceptance among the stars.
by Jalen, 826NYC
A series of superhero haiku inspired by engineering secret lairs.
by Andres Santisteban-Perez, age 12, 826 Valencia
When playing video games night turned into a nightmare.
by Kelis, 826NYC
On the planet Mars, Zoe must defeat the supervillain Zygorn to avenge her family! Wait—was it all a dream?
by Elena Chambers, 826michigan
Thinking of Cherry Coke lip gloss, community, and dancing, this narrator celebrates life from their front stoop.
by Smila H., Age 10, 826LA
A powerful acrostic poem that shares an encouraging message.
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 Gael, 826CHI
A short but powerful poem about the circular nature of history.
Nur Schlenker, Age 10, 826 Valencia
A student paints two images, one of Halloween night, and the second of home.
by Sumaya, 826 MSP
This poem uses analogies to describe different objects the writer would like to be.
by Sophia, 826CHI
In this poem, a student makes some noise about resilience and beating the odds.
Elsie, 826 New Orleans
In this poem, a student celebrates individuality.
by Yarely, 826michigan
A poem about grandma. English and Spanish versions included.
Perla Ortega, Age 9, 826 Valencia
A poet sweetly appreciates a teacher for her kindness.
by Charm R., Grade 5, 826 New Orleans
This poem tells the story of a courageous little bird.
by Simone, 826michigan
A poem about appreciating trees and why we should study them.
by Kevin J. Ortiz, 826DC
A personal narrative about a trip to Ocean City, a lonely puppy, and sharing our fears with others.
by Luana Anticona Nolasco, age 10, 826 Valencia
An eerie encounter with a shapeshifter after a grocery run.
by Christian, 826michigan
In this resolution inspired by the "Include Someone" lesson and Cartoon Network storyboard, we learn that sometimes the easiest way to make someone feel included is by lending a hand.
by Kaiya S., Grade 6, 826DC
The harrowing tale of a super spy student vs. the villainous Mr.X.
by Mohamed F., 826 MSP
This poem uses descriptive language to leave the reader clues about the animal it is depicting.
by Kyle I., Grade 6, Kansas City, MO
A gender-fluid student's call to action to the next U.S. president to protect LGBTQIA+ rights.
by Gael, 826CHI
A poem about becoming a dancer.
Jerieliz Garcia & Jaiden Vinti, 826NYC
Two poets braid together their reflections on where they come from.
by Kevin, 826NYC
A wizened middle schooler offers the benefits of sixth grade to younger readers, sprinkling in a few tips to survive and thrive in their year ahead.
by Satis, 826 Valencia
A student argues for the importance of transgender rights in response to current events.
by Marvin, Grade 5, 826CHI
A troubled ghost haunts a boy’s dreams.
by Jose Martin Gomez, 826 Valencia
This poem celebrates a special person in the writer's life.
by Winta, 826DC
A concise but essential list of survival tips in the event of a sweet disaster.
by Marisol, 826michigan
A young girl's poem about all the life she sees in her yard. English and Spanish versions included.
by Keila, 826michigan
An "I A From" poem. English and Spanish versions included.
by Jaceon B., Grade 4, 826 New Orleans
A student describes their butter covered imaginary friend.
by Kayla, 826LA
This author reflects on an act of kindness to someone in need.
by Charlie, 826michigan
A very scientific retelling of why dinosaurs went extinct.
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.
by Liliana, 826DC
This student’s heartbreaking personal narrative describes what it can feel like to have your parents get divorced.
by Chelsea, 826NYC
An academically-inclined student passes on their favorite tips for having fun before fifth grade starts.
by Erriyanna, 826michigan
An epic poem about a younger sister. English and Spanish versions included.
by Luis, 826LA
This student writes a letter to a hero with a sweet double kick: Jackie Chan!
by Maia Sears, 826michigan
This student describes exciting things the future will bring, like elevators that can reach space!
by Angel Flores Vazquez, 826 Valencia
This poem illustrates the effectiveness of descriptive language.
by Robert, 826CHI
A collection of haikus spanning books and cosmology.
by Charlotte, 826CHI
A poem about spring!
by Jekaya, 826 Boston
A student reflects on what it takes to stand up to bullies and speak up for others.
by Oscar, 826CHI
The story of a lifetime—literally.
by Camilla S.R., Grade 5, 826 Valencia
A student describes her imaginary friend from Funky Town.
by Reyes, 826NYC
A creative field guide to the eastern gray squirrel.
by Krisbel D.L.M., Grade 6, 826 Valencia
A letter to the next President asking them to support immigration laws that will allow them to see their family.
by Joshua, 826CHI
Alien monsters and a young boy forge a friendship over a dramatic series of events.
by Caira N., Grade 5, 826NYC
A student lists all the reasons why her school is the best!
by Saeed, 826NYC
Food justice advocacy is reimagined by this student as an epic battle rages between Nutriman, Captain Nutritional, and Junkster in a school cafeteria!
by Brigid, 826CHI
A poem about facing fear—and learning how to shine.
by Ari, 826CHI
In the Realm of Virtues, a search for attention and significance teaches these characters an important lesson about what it means to be human!
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 Maria, 826 Valencia
This student gives thanks to ordinary objects in an ode.
by Kenneth Vasquez, Age 10, 826 Valencia
A student reflects on their love of soccer.
by Chelsea, 826NYC
A creative field guide to Daddy Longlegs.
by Isabella, 826CHI
A student describes a scrumptious five-course meal—everything except the vegetables, that is!
by Ximena Torres, Age 9, 826 Valencia
A poem about the lessons your family can teach you.
by Penelope, 826 Valencia
In this superhero story, Super Duper Scarlet must save San Fran Superland from Doctor Nefario!
by Lux, 826NYC
A student reflects on their experiences with bullying and how they’ll take a stand in the future.
by Pearl L., Age 10, 826DC
A story about Rory the dragon, the defender of all genders.
by Emmanuel, 826DC
A personal narrative about a tender first sighting between brothers on a family trip to El Salvador.
by Marisa, 826michigan
A series of tweets about an adventurous cat named Marcus. #SuperCat #Meow
Roberto Misael Aguilera, Age 9, 826 Valencia
Discover the fearful T-Rex Koala--koala by day, monster by night!
by Hanako M., Age 10, 826michigan
A "sense"-sational poem about the flowers in their yard.
by Talia, 826NYC
A creative field guide to Sea Lettuce.
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 Giovanna, 826NYC
An informative how-to on using a pen that can manipulate time and space.
by Janelle Suazo, age 12, 826 Valencia
A school dare gone horribly wrong!
by Athena, 826NYC
In this poem, a student explores both the seen and unseen powers of a superhero.
by Charlotte, 826CHI
A collection of haikus spanning sushi to surviving the sixth grade.
by Jack, Grade 5, 826 New Orleans
In this transcript, a student shares three clear actions to stand up to bullies.
by Guinevre, 826CHI
A persuasive letter with a few ideas on how to improve cafeteria lunches at school.
by Keila S.O., 826michigan
An “I Am From” poem about growing up in Detroit.
by Marisa, 826NYC
A student reports on Islamophobia, using research and interviews to explore this mindset and its damaging repercussions.
by Robert, 826CHI
A poem that explores the struggles of mine workers.
by Najah, Grade 6, 826 MSP
A student appreciates and reflects on her mother's kindness over the years.
by Violeta, 826CHI
A monster's routine trip for tuna sandwich ingredients results in a broken arm!