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