Grades 5–6
Memoir, NarrativeWritingJoseline is currently eleven years old. She lives in Washington, DC. She loves to draw to calm herself down and sing to entertain herself. When she grows up, she wants to be a doctor.
Summer makes me think of surprises and mysteries and fun.
It was a hot day in July 2012, and I was about to enter my apartment building that reminded me of an old king owl because it was so old. I walked up the stairs to the apartment and knocked on the door. My sister’s grandma opened it. I looked inside. Nothing had really changed in the living room. I walked towards the bedroom, and I opened the door. I saw my mom and my sister. They looked like two deer hibernating in the winter. My sister was asleep, but I didn’t even realize that until later because was lost in thought.
I felt really anxious, nervous, happy, and a teensie, tiny bit jealous and sad because I was an only child, and I knew things were going to change. I felt kind of ashamed for thinking and feeling this. I was like a three-flavored ice cream, you never know which flavor you like best and which one you hate the most.
I finally lost my thoughts because I heard my TV turn on. I put my stuff down and walked towards the bed. When I got there, my sister opened her little baby eyes that looked like two puddles of ice water. I remember that my negative feelings were gone exactly in that moment. I knew that my sister was going to be the best sister in the world. I lifted my head to look at my mom. She was smiling, and I asked, “Can I carry her?”
My mom answered, “No! You’re not ready to carry her. You’re too young.”
I rolled my eyes and thought: It’s not fair that whenever my mom wants to make me do something she always tells me, “I don’t know why you don’t want to do it when you’re old enough,” but whenever I want to do something, then I’m never old enough. Despite that, I love my sister.
Now my sister is four and a half years old, and I try my best to protect her, prepare her for life, and love her to all my ability.
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 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 Talia, 826NYC
A creative field guide to Sea Lettuce.
by Robert, 826CHI
A poem that explores the struggles of mine workers.
by Kelsey F., Grade 5, 826 Valencia
This poem shares an honest look at a big feeling: anxiety
by Uma Cantone, 826NYC
Ever wonder what would happen if the sky fell? This student uses metaphor to explore new beginnings.
by Norah, Grade 5, 826DC
A student describes her mystical worm imaginary friend.
by Caira N., Grade 5, 826NYC
A student lists all the reasons why her school is the best!
by Marco, 826LA
A screenplay about a plane crash and an epic journey to Mexico, with a twist!
by Jose Martin Gomez, 826 Valencia
This poem celebrates a special person in the writer's life.
by Naomi, 826michigan
A (mostly) love letter to a kiwi with delicious imagery.
by Girod, 826 New Orleans
This celebratory poem uses similes to list all of the things the writer loves about themself.
by Marisa, 826NYC
A student reports on Islamophobia, using research and interviews to explore this mindset and its damaging repercussions.
by Smila H., Age 10, 826LA
A powerful acrostic poem that shares an encouraging message.
by Luana Anticona Nolasco, age 10, 826 Valencia
An eerie encounter with a shapeshifter after a grocery run.
by Abdinasir, 826 MSP
This poem shares what someone might experience on Halloween.
by Elaine, 826 Boston
A diary entry reflecting on a secret mission to Mars!
by Marvin, Grade 5, 826CHI
A troubled ghost haunts a boy’s dreams.
by Felix E., 826 Valencia
A student's fear is conquered after a startling discovery.
by Brigid, 826CHI
A poem about facing fear—and learning how to shine.
Raquel Campos, Age 10, 826 Valencia
Three friends, inspired by a stream of butterflies, bake a beautiful cake.
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 Simone, 826michigan
A poem about appreciating trees and why we should study them.
Perla Ortega, Age 9, 826 Valencia
A poet sweetly appreciates a teacher for her kindness.
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.
by Jekaya, 826 Boston
A student reflects on what it takes to stand up to bullies and speak up for others.
Roberto Misael Aguilera, Age 9, 826 Valencia
Discover the fearful T-Rex Koala--koala by day, monster by night!
by Najah, Grade 6, 826 MSP
A student appreciates and reflects on her mother's kindness over the years.
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 Mohamed F., 826 MSP
This poem uses descriptive language to leave the reader clues about the animal it is depicting.
by Kevin J. Ortiz, 826DC
A personal narrative about a trip to Ocean City, a lonely puppy, and sharing our fears with others.
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!
Vivien Norton, Age 12, 826michigan
A poet explores their love for writing with their friend.
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 Yasmeen Whitney, Age 9, 826 Valencia
This poem declares a student's love for snow globes!
by Walter Linares, Age 11, 826 Valencia
The secrets of a spy in a red venom suit unfold...
by Charlotte, 826CHI
A collection of haikus spanning sushi to surviving the sixth grade.
by Zari P., Grade 4, 826DC
A playful "I am" poem that explores what's possible.
by Ivan Newton Ponce, 826 Valencia
This poem uses sensory details to describe the writer's favorite places.
by Liliana, 826DC
This student’s heartbreaking personal narrative describes what it can feel like to have your parents get divorced.
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 Lyric White, age 10, 826 Valencia
A magical mountain quest to save a mermaid.
by Natalia, 826CHI
A story told by her grandfather leads Betty on a journey where fiction and reality collide.
by Aiden Spence, Grade 3, 826NYC
This poem describes all of the reasons why green is the best color.
by Armaan, 826CHI
This author recounts the beginning of a family tradition: the best homemade sandwich ever!
by Salimatou, 826NYC
Together, a princess with superpowers and an orphan-turned-sidekick must save the king and queen of kingdom Atarica!
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 Keila, 826michigan
An "I Am From" poem. English and Spanish versions included.
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 Sophia, 826CHI
In this poem, a student makes some noise about resilience and beating the odds.
Jerieliz Garcia & Jaiden Vinti, 826NYC
Two poets braid together their reflections on where they come from.
by Dahlia-Rose, 826NYC
A field guide to Queen Anne’s Lace and a day in the life from a flower’s perspective.
by Luis, 826LA
This student writes a letter to a hero with a sweet double kick: Jackie Chan!
by Eric, 826CHI
This student recounts a fictional chat with George Washington about the American Revolution over a meal.
by Marie, 826CHI
A monkey named Chesley saves the animals of the forest from an evil Master!
by Angelina Do, Grade 6, 826 Valencia
A poem about living in the space between two cultures.
by Juna, 826michigan
A poem about taking the world in—and letting go.
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 Angel Flores Vazquez, 826 Valencia
This poem illustrates the effectiveness of descriptive language.
Dylan Sanderson, Grade 5, 826NYC
A student dreams of the most joyful place in the world--somewhere with their family and money!
by Sumaya, 826 MSP
This poem uses analogies to describe different objects the writer would like to be.
by Ximena Torres, Age 9, 826 Valencia
A poem about the lessons your family can teach you.
by Uma, 826NYC
A witty set of foolproof pickup lines.
by Keila S.O., 826michigan
An “I Am From” poem about growing up in Detroit.
by Winta, 826DC
A concise but essential list of survival tips in the event of a sweet disaster.
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.
Elsie, 826 New Orleans
In this poem, a student celebrates individuality.
by Hanako M., Age 10, 826michigan
A "sense"-sational poem about the flowers in their yard.
by Kelis, 826NYC
On the planet Mars, Zoe must defeat the supervillain Zygorn to avenge her family! Wait—was it all a dream?
by Carolyn Danielle Wong, Age 9, 826 Valencia
In this poem, the writer showcases self-love and joy.
by Penelope, 826 Valencia
In this superhero story, Super Duper Scarlet must save San Fran Superland from Doctor Nefario!
by Andres Santisteban-Perez, age 12, 826 Valencia
When playing video games night turned into a nightmare.
by Ehmely, 826CHI
A crucial missive for anyone playing a high-stakes game of "Hide and Seek".
by Daphne, 826 Valencia
A girl named Chloe embarks on a heroic mission after discovering a new super-identity: Fluffy Justice!
by Juliana Anderson, Grade 6, 826 MSP
This action-packed sci-fi story will keep you on the edge of your seat!
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 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 Claire Leiva, Grade 6, 826michigan
A poem about the writer's favorite animal—corgis!
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 Jesús, 826 Valencia
In this superhero story, Spyman is on an important mission—saving donuts from becoming bagels!
by Jacore, 826 Valencia
An intriguing and educational essay discussing environmental consciousness and the devastating effects of global warming.
Jaylin Guevarro, Grade 6, 826NYC
A poet admires their loved one through this warming ode.
by Oscar, 826CHI
The story of a lifetime—literally.
by Yarely, 826michigan
A poem about grandma. English and Spanish versions included.
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 Chelsea, 826NYC
An academically-inclined student passes on their favorite tips for having fun before fifth grade starts.
by Kathryn, 826NYC
A very scientific origin poem about french fries, starting with an argument between the sun and the moon.
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 Alondra, 826CHI
An epic story of a princess who seeks acceptance among the stars.
by Meredith, 826michigan
A poem about globe-sized dreams.
by Jalen, 826NYC
A series of superhero haiku inspired by engineering secret lairs.
by K.M., 826DC
In this piece, a student describes the challenges of being a superhero and reflects on their power to shine.
by Charm R., Grade 5, 826 New Orleans
This poem tells the story of a courageous little bird.
by Valary K., Grade 6, 826 MSP
A story about a mysterious tunnel that leaves you on the edge of your seat!
by Guinevre, 826CHI
A persuasive letter with a few ideas on how to improve cafeteria lunches at school.
by Dy’Stonie V., Grade 5, 826 New Orleans
A poem that highlights the bond between grandparent, grandchild, and a sweet perfume.
by Victor, 826 Valencia
An ode to Beans, Rice, and Chicken.
by Violeta, 826CHI
A monster's routine trip for tuna sandwich ingredients results in a broken arm!
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 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 Robert, 826CHI
A collection of haikus spanning books and cosmology.
by Camilla S.R., Grade 5, 826 Valencia
A student describes her imaginary friend from Funky Town.
by Khloe Fewster, 826 Valencia
This poem uses repetition to give advice for when you're feeling unsure of yourself.
by Jeffrey, 826DC
In this "I Wish" poem, written in both Spanish and English, a student dreams of a more colorful world.
by Elsy, 826LA
Song lyrics about memories of cake and pizza, friendship, and giving 1,000 opinions.
by Reyes, 826NYC
A creative field guide to the eastern gray squirrel.
by Renee, 826NYC
A poem that explores all that a tree can stand for.
by Kayla, 826LA
This author reflects on an act of kindness to someone in need.
by Charlotte, 826CHI
A poem about spring!
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 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 Harrison, 826michigan
A recursive poem that helps students explore the potential connections between math fractals and verse.
by Natalie, 826 Valencia
A recipe for how to create a legendary rapper.
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 Wayne Gillyard, 826 Valencia
This poem shares the writer's love of all things yellow.
by Marisa, 826michigan
A series of tweets about an adventurous cat named Marcus. #SuperCat #Meow
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 Madison, 826 New Orleans
This poem leaves the reader descriptive clues to help them guess the mystery food.
by Athena, 826NYC
In this poem, a student explores both the seen and unseen powers of a superhero.
by Kaiya S., Grade 6, 826DC
The harrowing tale of a super spy student vs. the villainous Mr.X.
by Emmanuel, 826DC
A personal narrative about a tender first sighting between brothers on a family trip to El Salvador.
by Kevin, 826LA
A letter from the author to the author on appreciating both the unconventional and conventional parts of oneself.
by Marisol, 826michigan
A young girl's poem about all the life she sees in her yard. English and Spanish versions included.
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 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 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 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 Pearl L., Age 10, 826DC
A story about Rory the dragon, the defender of all genders.
by Joshua, 826CHI
Alien monsters and a young boy forge a friendship over a dramatic series of events.
by Destiny, 826NYC
In this poem, a student contrasts conflicting perspectives on the construction of the Dakota Access Pipeline.
by Elena Chambers, 826michigan
Thinking of Cherry Coke lip gloss, community, and dancing, this narrator celebrates life from their front stoop.
by Chelsea, 826NYC
A creative field guide to Daddy Longlegs.
Nur Schlenker, Age 10, 826 Valencia
A student paints two images, one of Halloween night, and the second of home.
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 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 Kenneth Vasquez, Age 10, 826 Valencia
A student reflects on their love of soccer.
by Crystal Colorado, Age 12, 826 Valencia
This poem will take you to the beach and make you wonder if it was all a dream.
Dominick Contreras Rodriguez, age 9, 826 Valencia
A student traces his identity through food and family.
by Gael, 826CHI
A poem about becoming a dancer.
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 Ayana A., Grade 6, 826NYC
A student describes their fuzzy imaginary friend.
by Gael, 826CHI
A short but powerful poem about the circular nature of history.
by Maria, 826 Valencia
This student gives thanks to ordinary objects in an ode.
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 Salma, Grade 5, 826 Boston
A student reminds herself of the many ways she shines
by Satis, 826 Valencia
A student argues for the importance of transgender rights in response to current events.
by Claire, 826CHI
A poem about “unfinding” what was known and learning to explore.
by Lux, 826NYC
A student reflects on their experiences with bullying and how they’ll take a stand in the future.
by Victor, 826 Valencia
This student gives thanks to ordinary objects in an ode.
by Janelle Suazo, age 12, 826 Valencia
A school dare gone horribly wrong!
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 Faisa Y., Grade 6, 826MSP
A student describes their comfort fairy imaginary friend.
by John, 826NYC
A creative commentary on food justice in which Digestive Man defends local farms from Corn Boy and the Factory Farmers!
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 Maia Sears, 826michigan
This student describes exciting things the future will bring, like elevators that can reach space!
by Lina, 826 Valencia
A mischievous recipe calling for 3 tablespoons of candy, 10 gallons of not laughing, and 100 gallons of mother.
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 Jin, 826LA
This student says thank you to her Mom, her hero, for a life full love and beef noodles!
by Kaitlyn, 826NYC
A creation myth reimagined in a poem.
by Erriyanna, 826michigan
An epic poem about a younger sister. English and Spanish versions included.
by Charlie, 826michigan
A very scientific retelling of why dinosaurs went extinct.
by Milo, 826NYC
A creative origin story in which a programmer simultaneously creates life and biology in a program.
by Kayamaghi, 826NYC
A lab experiment goes wrong and a humble scientist must save Superhero Land from a super speedy villain!
by Jaceon B., Grade 4, 826 New Orleans
A student describes their butter covered imaginary friend.
by Athena, 826NYC
An "I Am From" superhero persona poem.
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 Giovanna, 826NYC
An informative how-to on using a pen that can manipulate time and space.
by Hope L.C., Age 10, 826DC
A silly story about dragon fruits -- no wait, fruit dragons!
by Olivia, 826NYC
An elegy for corn.
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