Grades 5–6
Memoir, NarrativeWritingEmmanuel has lived in Washington, DC for the past decade. He is eleven years old. His favorite things to do are play soccer and exercise. When he gets older he wants to be a soccer player or be in the military. He lives with his dad, mom, and three brothers. His favorite book is The Giver and his favorite movie is Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets.
One morning, I heard a motorcycle turn on and a rooster singing so that everybody could wake up. I jumped out of my bed because I’m a light sleeper, and I did my morning routine. My room was so clean that I didn’t need to worry about it. So I brushed my teeth, took a shower, and changed my clothes.
When I went outside, it was so hot that an ice cream would melt in ten seconds. I overheard my parents and aunt whispering. I felt left out because they always tell me where they are going, or what they are planning. At the same time, I thought it wasn’t important, so I went to feed the chicken and rooster to entertain myself.
Two hours later, my dad and my aunt’s husband left and didn’t say where they were going. I started to get worried like a parent looking for his lost child. I couldn’t stop thinking about where they were. I ate to distract myself. I was in the middle of the stairs when I thought, “What if something happened to them? What if they got lost?” I blinked twice, and the bad thinking went away.
I saw my mom and aunt cooking, and I asked, “Can I eat some?”
“Sure,” said my mom.
While I was eating, my mom and aunt went downstairs. At first it was silent but, five minutes later, I heard people laughing. My older brother came running and told me, “Come downstairs fast as a jaguar.”
As I was going downstairs, I saw that my dad’s eyes were watery, and I asked him, “What happened?”
“Nothing, I’m just happy,” he told me and pointed to a young man.
I looked at the young man’s face. When I saw his face clearly, I remembered something. Two weeks before I went to El Salvador, my parents showed me a picture of him and told me he was my older stepbrother. I was so happy that I wanted to cry for joy, but I was strong. It was my first time meeting him. I hugged him. I told him a lot of things, but the best thing I told him was, “We finally see each other, brother.”
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From 826DC, what if how you see yourself is not how the world sees you? Inspired by socially charged photojournalism and mentor texts that include Junot Diaz and Claudia Rankine, students spanning ages ten to sixteen tackle questions about who they are and the world they live in. Having to Tell Your Mother Is the Hardest Part is a collection of personal narratives that encompasses the fears, dreams, and hopes of young writers, ranging from concerns about immigration to soccer tournament victories to a community that unites after an earthquake to the story behind a name, as well as critical responses to the 2016 United States presidential election. Filled with joy and sadness, young writers reflect on the encounters between themselves and the world around them, musing over misunderstandings and broken connections, and parsing out the meaning of identity in a multicultural and multilingual world.
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 Aiden Spence, Grade 3, 826NYC
This poem describes all of the reasons why green is the best color.
by Kayla, 826LA
This author reflects on an act of kindness to someone in need.
by Javier, 826DC
A student wishes for unexpected pops of color.
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 Stefany Moreira, Vivi Small, Ana Rosas, Eugenia Rosas, and Jason Carrillo, 826NYC
This poem describes a warmer, tastier world run by young people.
by Dy’Stonie V., Grade 5, 826 New Orleans
A poem that highlights the bond between grandparent, grandchild, and a sweet perfume.
by Hanako M., Age 10, 826michigan
A "sense"-sational poem about the flowers in their yard.
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 Jose Martin Gomez, 826 Valencia
This poem celebrates a special person in the writer's life.
by Elsy, 826LA
Song lyrics about memories of cake and pizza, friendship, and giving 1,000 opinions.
by Kathryn, 826NYC
A very scientific origin poem about french fries, starting with an argument between the sun and the moon.
by Caira N., Grade 5, 826NYC
A student lists all the reasons why her school is the best!
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 Felix E., 826 Valencia
A student's fear is conquered after a startling discovery.
by Najah, Grade 6, 826 MSP
A student appreciates and reflects on her mother's kindness over the years.
by Marco, 826LA
A screenplay about a plane crash and an epic journey to Mexico, with a twist!
by Kevin, 826LA
A letter from the author to the author on appreciating both the unconventional and conventional parts of oneself.
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 Angelina Do, Grade 6, 826 Valencia
A poem about living in the space between two cultures.
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 Abdinasir, 826 MSP
This poem shares what someone might experience on Halloween.
by Erriyanna, 826michigan
An epic poem about a younger sister. English and Spanish versions included.
by Elaine, 826 Boston
A diary entry reflecting on a secret mission to Mars!
by Destiny, 826NYC
In this poem, a student contrasts conflicting perspectives on the construction of the Dakota Access Pipeline.
by Charm R., Grade 5, 826 New Orleans
This poem tells the story of a courageous little bird.
by Salimatou, 826NYC
Together, a princess with superpowers and an orphan-turned-sidekick must save the king and queen of kingdom Atarica!
by Keila, 826michigan
An "I A From" poem. English and Spanish versions included.
by Lux, 826NYC
A student reflects on their experiences with bullying and how they’ll take a stand in the future.
by Armaan, 826CHI
This author recounts the beginning of a family tradition: the best homemade sandwich ever!
by Brigid, 826CHI
A poem about facing fear—and learning how to shine.
by Keila S.O., 826michigan
An “I Am From” poem about growing up in Detroit.
by Penelope, 826 Valencia
In this superhero story, Super Duper Scarlet must save San Fran Superland from Doctor Nefario!
by Zari P., Grade 4, 826DC
A playful "I am" poem that explores what's possible.
by Chelsea, 826NYC
A creative field guide to Daddy Longlegs.
by Claire, 826CHI
A poem about “unfinding” what was known and learning to explore.
by Renee, 826NYC
A poem that explores all that a tree can stand for.
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 Marisa, 826NYC
A student reports on Islamophobia, using research and interviews to explore this mindset and its damaging repercussions.
Perla Ortega, Age 9, 826 Valencia
A poet sweetly appreciates a teacher for her kindness.
by Charlotte, 826CHI
A collection of haikus spanning sushi to surviving the sixth grade.
by Talia, 826NYC
A creative field guide to Sea Lettuce.
Roberto Misael Aguilera, Age 9, 826 Valencia
Discover the fearful T-Rex Koala--koala by day, monster by night!
by Valary K., Grade 6, 826 MSP
A story about a mysterious tunnel that leaves you on the edge of your seat!
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 Dahlia-Rose, 826NYC
A field guide to Queen Anne’s Lace and a day in the life from a flower’s perspective.
by Naomi, 826michigan
A (mostly) love letter to a kiwi with delicious imagery.
by Natalia, 826CHI
A story told by her grandfather leads Betty on a journey where fiction and reality collide.
by Olivia, 826NYC
An elegy for corn.
Elsie, 826 New Orleans
In this poem, a student celebrates individuality.
by Joshua, 826CHI
Alien monsters and a young boy forge a friendship over a dramatic series of events.
by Lina, 826 Valencia
A mischievous recipe calling for 3 tablespoons of candy, 10 gallons of not laughing, and 100 gallons of mother.
by Kevin J. Ortiz, 826DC
A personal narrative about a trip to Ocean City, a lonely puppy, and sharing our fears with others.
by Winta, 826DC
A concise but essential list of survival tips in the event of a sweet disaster.
by Girod, 826 New Orleans
This celebratory poem uses similes to list all of the things the writer loves about themself.
Nur Schlenker, Age 10, 826 Valencia
A student paints two images, one of Halloween night, and the second of home.
by Satis, 826 Valencia
A student argues for the importance of transgender rights in response to current events.
by Claire Leiva, Grade 6, 826michigan
A poem about the writer's favorite animal--corgis!
by Joseline, 826DC
A personal narrative about a teensie, tiny bit of jealousy for a new baby sister turning into love.
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 Guinevre, 826CHI
A persuasive letter with a few ideas on how to improve cafeteria lunches at school.
by Elena Chambers, 826michigan
Thinking of Cherry Coke lip gloss, community, and dancing, this narrator celebrates life from their front stoop.
by Oscar, 826CHI
The story of a lifetime—literally.
by Juna, 826michigan
A poem about taking the world in—and letting go.
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 Charlotte, 826CHI
A poem about spring!
by Sumaya, 826 MSP
This poem uses analogies to describe different objects the writer would like to be.
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 Ehmely, 826CHI
A crucial missive for anyone playing a high-stakes game of "Hide and Seek".
by Marvin, Grade 5, 826CHI
A troubled ghost haunts a boy’s dreams.
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 Ivan Newton Ponce, 826 Valencia
This poem uses sensory details to describe the writer's favorite places.
by Uma Cantone, 826NYC
Ever wonder what would happen if the sky fell? This student uses metaphor to explore new beginnings.
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 Zaid Rodriguez, 826 Valencia
This story immerses the reader in sensory details to tell the tale of what lies behind a mysterious door.
by Uma, 826NYC
A witty set of foolproof pickup lines.
by Faisa Y., Grade 6, 826MSP
A student describes their comfort fairy imaginary friend.
by Liliana, 826DC
This student’s heartbreaking personal narrative describes what it can feel like to have your parents get divorced.
by Daphne, 826 Valencia
A girl named Chloe embarks on a heroic mission after discovering a new super-identity: Fluffy Justice!
by Andres Santisteban-Perez, age 12, 826 Valencia
When playing video games night turned into a nightmare.
by Jin, 826LA
This student says thank you to her Mom, her hero, for a life full love and beef noodles!
by Jekaya, 826 Boston
A student reflects on what it takes to stand up to bullies and speak up for others.
by Reyes, 826NYC
A creative field guide to the eastern gray squirrel.
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 Hope L.C., Age 10, 826DC
A silly story about dragon fruits -- no wait, fruit dragons!
by Violeta, 826CHI
A monster's routine trip for tuna sandwich ingredients results in a broken arm!
Dominick Contreras Rodriguez, age 9, 826 Valencia
A student traces his identity through food and family.
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 Robert, 826CHI
A collection of haikus spanning books and cosmology.
by Kaiya S., Grade 6, 826DC
The harrowing tale of a super spy student vs. the villainous Mr.X.
by Kelis, 826NYC
On the planet Mars, Zoe must defeat the supervillain Zygorn to avenge her family! Wait—was it all a dream?
by Camilla S.R., Grade 5, 826 Valencia
A student describes her imaginary friend from Funky Town.
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 Kenneth Vasquez, Age 10, 826 Valencia
A student reflects on their love of soccer.
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 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 Luis, 826LA
This student writes a letter to a hero with a sweet double kick: Jackie Chan!
by Athena, 826NYC
In this poem, a student explores both the seen and unseen powers of a superhero.
by Maia Sears, 826michigan
This student describes exciting things the future will bring, like elevators that can reach space!
by Kayamaghi, 826NYC
A lab experiment goes wrong and a humble scientist must save Superhero Land from a super speedy villain!
by Marisa, 826michigan
A series of tweets about an adventurous cat named Marcus. #SuperCat #Meow
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 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 Alondra, 826CHI
An epic story of a princess who seeks acceptance among the stars.
by Kaitlyn, 826NYC
A creation myth reimagined in a poem.
by Janelle Suazo, age 12, 826 Valencia
A school dare gone horribly wrong!
by Angel Flores Vazquez, 826 Valencia
This poem illustrates the effectiveness of descriptive language.
by Khloe Fewster, 826 Valencia
This poem uses repetition to give advice for when you're feeling unsure of yourself.
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 Norah, Grade 5, 826DC
A student describes her mystical worm imaginary friend.
by K.M., 826DC
In this piece, a student describes the challenges of being a superhero and reflects on their power to shine.
by Yarely, 826michigan
A poem about grandma. English and Spanish versions included.
by Athena, 826NYC
An "I Am From" superhero persona poem.
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 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 Robert, 826CHI
A poem that explores the struggles of mine workers.
by Wayne Gillyard, 826 Valencia
This poem shares the writer's love of all things yellow.
by Sophia, 826CHI
In this poem, a student makes some noise about resilience and beating the odds.
by Smila H., Age 10, 826LA
A powerful acrostic poem that shares an encouraging message.
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.
by Charlie, 826michigan
A very scientific retelling of why dinosaurs went extinct.
by Marie, 826CHI
A monkey named Chesley saves the animals of the forest from an evil Master!
by Marisol, 826michigan
A young girl's poem about all the life she sees in her yard. English and Spanish versions included.
by Milo, 826NYC
A creative origin story in which a programmer simultaneously creates life and biology in a program.
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 Chelsea, 826NYC
An academically-inclined student passes on their favorite tips for having fun before fifth grade starts.
by Eric, 826CHI
This student recounts a fictional chat with George Washington about the American Revolution over a meal.
by Natalie, 826 Valencia
A recipe for how to create a legendary rapper.
by Mohamed F., 826 MSP
This poem uses descriptive language to leave the reader clues about the animal it is depicting.
by Evelyn Escamilla, 826 Valencia
This poem uses metaphors and similes to describe happiness.
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 Walter Linares, Age 11, 826 Valencia
The secrets of a spy in a red venom suit unfold...
by Simone, 826michigan
A poem about appreciating trees and why we should study them.
Jaylin Guevarro, Grade 6, 826NYC
A poet admires their loved one through this warming ode.
by Giovanna, 826NYC
An informative how-to on using a pen that can manipulate time and space.
by Ximena Torres, Age 9, 826 Valencia
A poem about the lessons your family can teach you.
by Jaceon B., Grade 4, 826 New Orleans
A student describes their butter covered imaginary friend.
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 Madison, 826 New Orleans
This poem leaves the reader descriptive clues to help them guess the mystery food.
by Jalen, 826NYC
A series of superhero haiku inspired by engineering secret lairs.
by Harrison, 826michigan
A recursive poem that helps students explore the potential connections between math fractals and verse.
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 Lyric White, age 10, 826 Valencia
A magical mountain quest to save a mermaid.
by Gael, 826CHI
A poem about becoming a dancer.
by Maria, 826 Valencia
This student gives thanks to ordinary objects in an ode.
by Pearl L., Age 10, 826DC
A story about Rory the dragon, the defender of all genders.
by Meredith, 826michigan
A poem about globe-sized dreams.
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 John, 826NYC
A creative commentary on food justice in which Digestive Man defends local farms from Corn Boy and the Factory Farmers!
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 Salma, Grade 5, 826 Boston
A student reminds herself of the many ways she shines
by Jeffrey, 826DC
In this "I Wish" poem, written in both Spanish and English, a student dreams of a more colorful world.
by Jacore, 826 Valencia
An intriguing and educational essay discussing environmental consciousness and the devastating effects of global warming.
by Victor, 826 Valencia
This student gives thanks to ordinary objects in an ode.
by Luana Anticona Nolasco, age 10, 826 Valencia
An eerie encounter with a shapeshifter after a grocery run.
by Ayana A., Grade 6, 826NYC
by Gael, 826CHI
A short but powerful poem about the circular nature of history.
Jerieliz Garcia & Jaiden Vinti, 826NYC
Two poets braid together their reflections on where they come from.
by Isabella, 826CHI
A student describes a scrumptious five-course meal—everything except the vegetables, that is!
by Jack, Grade 5, 826 New Orleans
In this transcript, a student shares three clear actions to stand up to bullies.
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