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 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 Winta, 826DC
A concise but essential list of survival tips in the event of a sweet disaster.
by Jacore, 826 Valencia
An intriguing and educational essay discussing environmental consciousness and the devastating effects of global warming.
by Luana Anticona Nolasco, age 10, 826 Valencia
An eerie encounter with a shapeshifter after a grocery run.
by Talia, 826NYC
A creative field guide to Sea Lettuce.
by Destiny, 826NYC
In this poem, a student contrasts conflicting perspectives on the construction of the Dakota Access Pipeline.
by Andres Santisteban-Perez, age 12, 826 Valencia
When playing video games night turned into a nightmare.
by Charlie, 826michigan
A very scientific retelling of why dinosaurs went extinct.
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 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 Kelis, 826NYC
On the planet Mars, Zoe must defeat the supervillain Zygorn to avenge her family! Wait—was it all a dream?
by Mohamed F., 826 MSP
This poem uses descriptive language to leave the reader clues about the animal it is depicting.
by Lyric White, age 10, 826 Valencia
A magical mountain quest to save a mermaid.
by Robert, 826CHI
A collection of haikus spanning books and cosmology.
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 Armaan, 826CHI
This author recounts the beginning of a family tradition: the best homemade sandwich ever!
by Gael, 826CHI
A short but powerful poem about the circular nature of history.
by Yasmeen Whitney, Age 9, 826 Valencia
This poem declares a student's love for snow globes!
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 Kayamaghi, 826NYC
A lab experiment goes wrong and a humble scientist must save Superhero Land from a super speedy villain!
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 Marco, 826LA
A screenplay about a plane crash and an epic journey to Mexico, with a twist!
by Uma, 826NYC
A witty set of foolproof pickup lines.
by Felix E., 826 Valencia
A student's fear is conquered after a startling discovery.
by Claire, 826CHI
A poem about “unfinding” what was known and learning to explore.
by Reyes, 826NYC
A creative field guide to the eastern gray squirrel.
by Jalen, 826NYC
A series of superhero haiku inspired by engineering secret lairs.
by Sumaya, 826 MSP
This poem uses analogies to describe different objects the writer would like to be.
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 Oscar, 826CHI
The story of a lifetime—literally.
by Athena, 826NYC
An "I Am From" superhero persona poem.
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 Brigid, 826CHI
A poem about facing fear—and learning how to shine.
by Girod, 826 New Orleans
This celebratory poem uses similes to list all of the things the writer loves about themself.
by Guinevre, 826CHI
A persuasive letter with a few ideas on how to improve cafeteria lunches at school.
by Jin, 826LA
This student says thank you to her Mom, her hero, for a life full love and beef noodles!
by Satis, 826 Valencia
A student argues for the importance of transgender rights in response to current events.
by Maria, 826 Valencia
This student gives thanks to ordinary objects in an ode.
by Walter Linares, Age 11, 826 Valencia
The secrets of a spy in a red venom suit unfold...
by Janelle Suazo, age 12, 826 Valencia
A school dare gone horribly wrong!
by Marvin, Grade 5, 826CHI
A troubled ghost haunts a boy’s dreams.
by Charlotte, 826CHI
A collection of haikus spanning sushi to surviving the sixth grade.
by Naomi, 826michigan
A (mostly) love letter to a kiwi with delicious imagery.
by Elaine, 826 Boston
A diary entry reflecting on a secret mission to Mars!
by Renee, 826NYC
A poem that explores all that a tree can stand for.
by Elena Chambers, 826michigan
Thinking of Cherry Coke lip gloss, community, and dancing, this narrator celebrates life from their front stoop.
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 Salma, Grade 5, 826 Boston
A student reminds herself of the many ways she shines
by Abdinasir, 826 MSP
This poem shares what someone might experience on Halloween.
Jaylin Guevarro, Grade 6, 826NYC
A poet admires their loved one through this warming ode.
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 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 Athena, 826NYC
In this poem, a student explores both the seen and unseen powers of a superhero.
by Angel Flores Vazquez, 826 Valencia
This poem illustrates the effectiveness of descriptive language.
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 Jesús, 826 Valencia
In this superhero story, Spyman is on an important mission—saving donuts from becoming bagels!
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 Khloe Fewster, 826 Valencia
This poem uses repetition to give advice for when you're feeling unsure of yourself.
Vivien Norton, Age 12, 826michigan
A poet explores their love for writing with their friend.
by Kenneth Vasquez, Age 10, 826 Valencia
A student reflects on their love of soccer.
by Angelina Do, Grade 6, 826 Valencia
A poem about living in the space between two cultures.
by Daphne, 826 Valencia
A girl named Chloe embarks on a heroic mission after discovering a new super-identity: Fluffy Justice!
by Lux, 826NYC
A student reflects on their experiences with bullying and how they’ll take a stand in the future.
by Sophia, 826CHI
In this poem, a student makes some noise about resilience and beating the odds.
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 Gael, 826CHI
A poem about becoming a dancer.
by Evelyn Escamilla, 826 Valencia
This poem uses metaphors and similes to describe happiness.
by Aiden Spence, Grade 3, 826NYC
This poem describes all of the reasons why green is the best color.
by Keila, 826michigan
An "I Am From" poem. English and Spanish versions included.
by Ehmely, 826CHI
A crucial missive for anyone playing a high-stakes game of "Hide and Seek".
by Jose Martin Gomez, 826 Valencia
This poem celebrates a special person in the writer's life.
by Olivia, 826NYC
An elegy for corn.
by Smila H., Age 10, 826LA
A powerful acrostic poem that shares an encouraging message.
Jerieliz Garcia & Jaiden Vinti, 826NYC
Two poets braid together their reflections on where they come from.
by Marisol, 826michigan
A young girl's poem about all the life she sees in her yard. English and Spanish versions included.
by Giovanna, 826NYC
An informative how-to on using a pen that can manipulate time and space.
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 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 Harrison, 826michigan
A recursive poem that helps students explore the potential connections between math fractals and verse.
by Penelope, 826 Valencia
In this superhero story, Super Duper Scarlet must save San Fran Superland from Doctor Nefario!
by Uma Cantone, 826NYC
Ever wonder what would happen if the sky fell? This student uses metaphor to explore new beginnings.
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 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!
Nur Schlenker, Age 10, 826 Valencia
A student paints two images, one of Halloween night, and the second of home.
by Camilla S.R., Grade 5, 826 Valencia
A student describes her imaginary friend from Funky Town.
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 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 Najah, Grade 6, 826 MSP
A student appreciates and reflects on her mother's kindness over the years.
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 Eric, 826CHI
This student recounts a fictional chat with George Washington about the American Revolution over a meal.
Dylan Sanderson, Grade 5, 826NYC
A student dreams of the most joyful place in the world--somewhere with their family and money!
by Lina, 826 Valencia
A mischievous recipe calling for 3 tablespoons of candy, 10 gallons of not laughing, and 100 gallons of mother.
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 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 Liliana, 826DC
This student’s heartbreaking personal narrative describes what it can feel like to have your parents get divorced.
Raquel Campos, Age 10, 826 Valencia
Three friends, inspired by a stream of butterflies, bake a beautiful cake.
by Kevin, 826LA
A letter from the author to the author on appreciating both the unconventional and conventional parts of oneself.
by Maia Sears, 826michigan
This student describes exciting things the future will bring, like elevators that can reach space!
by K.M., 826DC
In this piece, a student describes the challenges of being a superhero and reflects on their power to shine.
by Victor, 826 Valencia
This student gives thanks to ordinary objects in an ode.
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 Elsy, 826LA
Song lyrics about memories of cake and pizza, friendship, and giving 1,000 opinions.
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 Claire Leiva, Grade 6, 826michigan
A poem about the writer's favorite animal—corgis!
by Hanako M., Age 10, 826michigan
A "sense"-sational poem about the flowers in their yard.
by Chelsea, 826NYC
A creative field guide to Daddy Longlegs.
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 Luis, 826LA
This student writes a letter to a hero with a sweet double kick: Jackie Chan!
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 Javier, 826DC
A student wishes for unexpected pops of color.
by Jaceon B., Grade 4, 826 New Orleans
A student describes their butter covered imaginary friend.
by Joshua, 826CHI
Alien monsters and a young boy forge a friendship over a dramatic series of events.
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 Carolyn Danielle Wong, Age 9, 826 Valencia
In this poem, the writer showcases self-love and joy.
by Alondra, 826CHI
An epic story of a princess who seeks acceptance among the stars.
by Dahlia-Rose, 826NYC
A field guide to Queen Anne’s Lace and a day in the life from a flower’s perspective.
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 Natalia, 826CHI
A story told by her grandfather leads Betty on a journey where fiction and reality collide.
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 Marisa, 826michigan
A series of tweets about an adventurous cat named Marcus. #SuperCat #Meow
by Faisa, age 9, 826 MSP
This poem writes from the perspective of a Prairie Shooting Star flower, detailing a day in its life.
Roberto Misael Aguilera, Age 9, 826 Valencia
Discover the fearful T-Rex Koala--koala by day, monster by night!
by Victor, 826 Valencia
An ode to Beans, Rice, and Chicken.
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 Marie, 826CHI
A monkey named Chesley saves the animals of the forest from an evil Master!
by Isabella, 826CHI
A student describes a scrumptious five-course meal—everything except the vegetables, that is!
by Ivan Newton Ponce, 826 Valencia
This poem uses sensory details to describe the writer's favorite places.
by Ayana A., Grade 6, 826NYC
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.
by Jack, Grade 5, 826 New Orleans
In this transcript, a student shares three clear actions to stand up to bullies.
Elsie, 826 New Orleans
In this poem, a student celebrates individuality.
by Wayne Gillyard, 826 Valencia
This poem shares the writer's love of all things yellow.
by Salimatou, 826NYC
Together, a princess with superpowers and an orphan-turned-sidekick must save the king and queen of kingdom Atarica!
Dominick Contreras Rodriguez, age 9, 826 Valencia
A student traces his identity through food and family.
by Robert, 826CHI
A poem that explores the struggles of mine workers.
by Ximena Torres, Age 9, 826 Valencia
A poem about the lessons your family can teach you.
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 Juna, 826michigan
A poem about taking the world in—and letting go.
by Meredith, 826michigan
A poem about globe-sized dreams.
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 Jekaya, 826 Boston
A student reflects on what it takes to stand up to bullies and speak up for others.
by Kevin J. Ortiz, 826DC
A personal narrative about a trip to Ocean City, a lonely puppy, and sharing our fears with others.
Perla Ortega, Age 9, 826 Valencia
A poet sweetly appreciates a teacher for her kindness.
by Kathryn, 826NYC
A very scientific origin poem about french fries, starting with an argument between the sun and the moon.
by John, 826NYC
A creative commentary on food justice in which Digestive Man defends local farms from Corn Boy and the Factory Farmers!
by Kayla, 826LA
This author reflects on an act of kindness to someone in need.
by Milo, 826NYC
A creative origin story in which a programmer simultaneously creates life and biology in a program.
by Caira N., Grade 5, 826NYC
A student lists all the reasons why her school is the best!
by Madison, 826 New Orleans
This poem leaves the reader descriptive clues to help them guess the mystery food.
by Charlotte, 826CHI
A poem about spring!
by Erriyanna, 826michigan
An epic poem about a younger sister. English and Spanish versions included.
by Yarely, 826michigan
A poem about grandma. English and Spanish versions included.
by Faisa Y., Grade 6, 826MSP
A student describes their comfort fairy imaginary friend.
by Hope L.C., Age 10, 826DC
A silly story about dragon fruits -- no wait, fruit dragons!
by Valary K., Grade 6, 826 MSP
A story about a mysterious tunnel that leaves you on the edge of your seat!
by Jeffrey, 826DC
In this "I Wish" poem, written in both Spanish and English, a student dreams of a more colorful world.
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 Kaiya S., Grade 6, 826DC
The harrowing tale of a super spy student vs. the villainous Mr.X.
by Keila S.O., 826michigan
An “I Am From” poem about growing up in Detroit.
by Kaitlyn, 826NYC
A creation myth reimagined in a poem.
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 Norah, Grade 5, 826DC
A student describes her mystical worm imaginary friend.
by Chelsea, 826NYC
An academically-inclined student passes on their favorite tips for having fun before fifth grade starts.
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