Breathe in pesticides killing dreams
Breathe out seeding dandelions in the wind
Breathe in white privilege
Breathe out a warm fire roasting s’mores
Breathe in fear shadowing minds
Breathe out children playing in fields full of butterfly milkweed
Breathe in wolves with their blood leaking out into the snow
Breathe out while sitting high up in a tree, letting it all go
by Jonathan Rivera Navarro, 826 Valencia
This poem celebrates and mourns a taco.
by Alfredo Enriquez-Aguilar, 826 Valencia
Have you ever wanted to care for a dragon? This poem teaches you how.
by Salimatou, 826NYC
Together, a princess with superpowers and an orphan-turned-sidekick must save the king and queen of kingdom Atarica!
by Daphne, 826 Valencia
A girl named Chloe embarks on a heroic mission after discovering a new super-identity: Fluffy Justice!
by Lyric White, age 10, 826 Valencia
A magical mountain quest to save a mermaid.
by Jack, Grade 5, 826 New Orleans
In this transcript, a student shares three clear actions to stand up to bullies.
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 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 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 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 Zari P., Grade 4, 826DC
A playful "I am" poem that explores what's possible.
by Marisa, 826NYC
A student reports on Islamophobia, using research and interviews to explore this mindset and its damaging repercussions.
by Sophia, 826CHI
In this poem, a student makes some noise about resilience and beating the odds.
by Armaan, 826CHI
This author recounts the beginning of a family tradition: the best homemade sandwich ever!
by Luana Anticona Nolasco, age 10, 826 Valencia
An eerie encounter with a shapeshifter after a grocery run.
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 Elaine, 826 Boston
A diary entry reflecting on a secret mission to Mars!
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 Reyes, 826NYC
A creative field guide to the eastern gray squirrel.
by Wayne Gillyard, 826 Valencia
This poem shares the writer's love of all things yellow.
by Jin, 826LA
This student says thank you to her Mom, her hero, for a life full love and beef noodles!
by Kathryn, 826NYC
A very scientific origin poem about french fries, starting with an argument between the sun and the moon.
by Walter Linares, Age 11, 826 Valencia
The secrets of a spy in a red venom suit unfold...
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 Javier, 826DC
A student wishes for unexpected pops of color.
by Simone, 826michigan
A poem about appreciating trees and why we should study them.
by Robert, 826CHI
A collection of haikus spanning books and cosmology.
by Oscar, 826CHI
The story of a lifetime—literally.
by Renee, 826NYC
A poem that explores all that a tree can stand for.
by Ehmely, 826CHI
A crucial missive for anyone playing a high-stakes game of "Hide and Seek".
by Victor, 826 Valencia
An ode to Beans, Rice, and Chicken.
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 Alan, 826DC
This poem describes the thoughts of hunger.
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 Elena Chambers, 826michigan
Thinking of Cherry Coke lip gloss, community, and dancing, this narrator celebrates life from their front stoop.
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 Brigid, 826CHI
A poem about facing fear—and learning how to shine.
by Aiden Spence, Grade 3, 826NYC
This poem describes all of the reasons why green is the best color.
by Alexa, 826michigan
A poem that tastes like pepperoni pizza.
by Winta, 826DC
A concise but essential list of survival tips in the event of a sweet disaster.
by Natalia, 826CHI
A story told by her grandfather leads Betty on a journey where fiction and reality collide.
by Chelsea, 826NYC
A creative field guide to Daddy Longlegs.
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 Ana, 826DC
A student learns an important lesson about staying calm while recounting a trip to Olive Garden that spiraled out of control!
by Jekaya, 826 Boston
A student reflects on what it takes to stand up to bullies and speak up for others.
by Caleigh, 826LA
A letter offering a concise yet compelling list of all that awaits in LA.
by Marisa, 826michigan
A series of tweets about an adventurous cat named Marcus. #SuperCat #Meow
by Victor, 826 Valencia
This student gives thanks to ordinary objects in an ode.
by Destiny, 826NYC
In this poem, a student contrasts conflicting perspectives on the construction of the Dakota Access Pipeline.
by Rechab T., 826DC
This poem takes a surreal approach to describing a scene.
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 Emmanuel, 826DC
A personal narrative about a tender first sighting between brothers on a family trip to El Salvador.
by Yarely, 826michigan
A poem about grandma. English and Spanish versions included.
by Alondra, 826CHI
An epic story of a princess who seeks acceptance among the stars.
by Uma Cantone, 826NYC
Ever wonder what would happen if the sky fell? This student uses metaphor to explore new beginnings.
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 Luis, 826LA
This student writes a letter to a hero with a sweet double kick: Jackie Chan!
by Dy’Stonie V., Grade 5, 826 New Orleans
A poem that highlights the bond between grandparent, grandchild, and a sweet perfume.
by Milo, 826NYC
A creative origin story in which a programmer simultaneously creates life and biology in a program.
by Athena, 826NYC
In this poem, a student explores both the seen and unseen powers of a superhero.
by Talia, 826NYC
A creative field guide to Sea Lettuce.
by Kelis, 826NYC
On the planet Mars, Zoe must defeat the supervillain Zygorn to avenge her family! Wait—was it all a dream?
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 Will, 826michigan
A student imagines life in the future.
by Marisol, 826michigan
A young girl's poem about all the life she sees in her yard. English and Spanish versions included.
by Natalie, 826 Valencia
A recipe for how to create a legendary rapper.
by Violeta, 826CHI
A monster's routine trip for tuna sandwich ingredients results in a broken arm!
by Najah, Grade 6, 826 MSP
A student appreciates and reflects on her mother's kindness over the years.
by Satis, 826 Valencia
A student argues for the importance of transgender rights in response to current events.
by John, 826NYC
A creative commentary on food justice in which Digestive Man defends local farms from Corn Boy and the Factory Farmers!
by Chelsea, 826NYC
An academically-inclined student passes on their favorite tips for having fun before fifth grade starts.
by Abdinasir, 826 MSP
This poem shares what someone might experience on Halloween.
by Mohamed F., 826 MSP
This poem uses descriptive language to leave the reader clues about the animal it is depicting.
by Penelope, 826 Valencia
In this superhero story, Super Duper Scarlet must save San Fran Superland from Doctor Nefario!
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 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 Khloe Fewster, 826 Valencia
This poem uses repetition to give advice for when you're feeling unsure of yourself.
by Elsy, 826LA
Song lyrics about memories of cake and pizza, friendship, and giving 1,000 opinions.
by Ciaran, 826NYC
A creative field guide to a Mourning Cloak butterfly who lives in New York City.
by Keila S.O., 826michigan
An “I Am From” poem about growing up in Detroit.
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 Faisa, age 9, 826 MSP
This poem writes from the perspective of a Prairie Shooting Star flower, detailing a day in its life.
by Erriyanna, 826michigan
An epic poem about a younger sister. English and Spanish versions included.
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 Jeffrey, 826DC
In this "I Wish" poem, written in both Spanish and English, a student dreams of a more colorful world.
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 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 Angelina Do, Grade 6, 826 Valencia
A poem about living in the space between two cultures.
by Olivia, 826NYC
An elegy for corn.
by Jose Martin Gomez, 826 Valencia
This poem celebrates a special person in the writer's life.
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 Elian de Leon, 826NYC
A poem that focuses on color and translates it into sensory details.
by Dahlia-Rose, 826NYC
A field guide to Queen Anne’s Lace and a day in the life from a flower’s perspective.
by 826NYC students
This collaborative poem explores the many sides and senses of laughter.
by Kayamaghi, 826NYC
A lab experiment goes wrong and a humble scientist must save Superhero Land from a super speedy villain!
by Salma, Grade 5, 826 Boston
A student reminds herself of the many ways she shines
by Kevin, 826LA
A letter from the author to the author on appreciating both the unconventional and conventional parts of oneself.
Ren, 826 New Orleans
In this poem, a student explores what summer means to them.
by Charm R., Grade 5, 826 New Orleans
This poem tells the story of a courageous little bird.
by Luis Cornejo, age 9, 826 Valencia
A student recalls the first time they saw a ghost.
by Angel Flores Vazquez, 826 Valencia
This poem illustrates the effectiveness of descriptive language.
by Claire, 826CHI
A poem about “unfinding” what was known and learning to explore.
by Harrison, 826michigan
A recursive poem that helps students explore the potential connections between math fractals and verse.
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 Gael, 826CHI
A short but powerful poem about the circular nature of history.
by Meredith, 826michigan
A poem about globe-sized dreams.
by Jesús, 826 Valencia
In this superhero story, Spyman is on an important mission—saving donuts from becoming bagels!
by Felix E., 826 Valencia
A student's fear is conquered after a startling discovery.
by Athena, 826NYC
An "I Am From" superhero persona poem.
by Emma D., Grade 4, 826LA
A plea to the next President to provide better access to mental health treatment for youth.
by Evelyn Escamilla, 826 Valencia
This poem uses metaphors and similes to describe happiness.
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 Jalen, 826NYC
A series of superhero haiku inspired by engineering secret lairs.
by Naomi, 826michigan
A (mostly) love letter to a kiwi with delicious imagery.
by Joseline, 826DC
A personal narrative about a teensie, tiny bit of jealousy for a new baby sister turning into love.
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 Madison, 826 New Orleans
This poem leaves the reader descriptive clues to help them guess the mystery food.
Elsie, 826 New Orleans
In this poem, a student celebrates individuality.
by Ivan Newton Ponce, 826 Valencia
This poem uses sensory details to describe the writer's favorite places.
by Giovanna, 826NYC
An informative how-to on using a pen that can manipulate time and space.
by Marie, 826CHI
A monkey named Chesley saves the animals of the forest from an evil Master!
by Charlotte, 826CHI
A collection of haikus spanning sushi to surviving the sixth grade.
by Liliana, 826DC
This student’s heartbreaking personal narrative describes what it can feel like to have your parents get divorced.
by Uma, 826NYC
A witty set of foolproof pickup lines.
by Guinevre, 826CHI
A persuasive letter with a few ideas on how to improve cafeteria lunches at school.
by Hanako M., Age 10, 826michigan
A "sense"-sational poem about the flowers in their yard.
by Quinn, 826CHI
A piece that explores the dynamic nature of love and might just become your next Valentine's Day card.
by Kaitlyn, 826NYC
A creation myth reimagined in a poem.
by Gael, 826CHI
A poem about becoming a dancer.
by Jacore, 826 Valencia
An intriguing and educational essay discussing environmental consciousness and the devastating effects of global warming.
by Fatima, 826michigan
A list poem about a beautiful room and a beautiful family in both English and Spanish.
by Ximena Torres, Age 9, 826 Valencia
A poem about the lessons your family can teach you.
by Charlie, 826michigan
A very scientific retelling of why dinosaurs went extinct.
by Robert, 826CHI
A poem that explores the struggles of mine workers.
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 Damian A., Grade 4, 826CHI
A student describes their bear-y fun imaginary friend.
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 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 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.
by Ava Tassinari, 826 Boston
A story about a bullying incident on the school bus.
by Kenneth Vasquez, Age 10, 826 Valencia
A student reflects on their love of soccer.
by Kevin J. Ortiz, 826DC
A personal narrative about a trip to Ocean City, a lonely puppy, and sharing our fears with others.
Raven, 826 New Orleans
You guessed it—an ode to cookies.
by Joshua, 826CHI
Alien monsters and a young boy forge a friendship over a dramatic series of events.
by Lux, 826NYC
A student reflects on their experiences with bullying and how they’ll take a stand in the future.
by Christian, 826 New Orleans
This poem uses personification to introduce the audience to an olive and its cousin, Jeff.
by Marco, 826LA
A screenplay about a plane crash and an epic journey to Mexico, with a twist!
by Marvin, 826CHI
A troubled young man ends up in another boy’s dreams.
by Kayla, 826LA
This author reflects on an act of kindness to someone in need.
by Girod, 826 New Orleans
This celebratory poem uses similes to list all of the things the writer loves about themself.
by Sumaya, 826 MSP
This poem uses analogies to describe different objects the writer would like to be.
by Antoni L., 826DC
In this poem, the author discusses their origins through metaphor.
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 Giannyl Guerrero Cabral, 826 Boston
A practical list of ways anyone can stop bullying.
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 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.
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 Eric, 826CHI
This student recounts a fictional chat with George Washington about the American Revolution over a meal.
by Maia Sears, 826michigan
This student describes exciting things the future will bring, like elevators that can reach space!
by Smila H., Age 10, 826LA
A powerful acrostic poem that shares an encouraging message.
by Andres Santisteban-Perez, age 12, 826 Valencia
When playing video games night turned into a nightmare.
by K.M., 826DC
In this piece, a student describes the challenges of being a superhero and reflects on their power to shine.
by Isabella, 826CHI
A student describes a scrumptious five-course meal—everything except the vegetables, that is!
by Camila R.G., Grade 4, 826LA
In this letter, a student asks the next U.S. President to help the homeless.
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 Keila, 826michigan
An "I A From" poem. English and Spanish versions included.
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 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 Janelle Suazo, age 12, 826 Valencia
A school dare gone horribly wrong!
by Maria, 826 Valencia
This student gives thanks to ordinary objects in an ode.
by Charlotte, 826CHI
A poem about spring!
by Claire Leiva, Grade 6, 826michigan
A poem about the writer's favorite animal--corgis!
by Lina, 826 Valencia
A mischievous recipe calling for 3 tablespoons of candy, 10 gallons of not laughing, and 100 gallons of mother.