Zany fractured fairy tales. Melancholy poetry. Editorial cartoons about free speech. 826DC's first anthology, You Will Be Able to Say a Thousand Words, collects the best student work published during the organization's first five years of programming. The anthology includes work from students ages six to eighteen across all programs, showcasing a dynamic range of creative and expository writing—from newspaper advice columns and op-eds to recipe-inspired memoirs to concrete poetry. Experience the expanse of emotions and ideas from 826DC students in this best of the best collection.
by Kathryn, 826NYC
A very scientific origin poem about french fries, starting with an argument between the sun and the moon.
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 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 Alan, 826DC
This poem describes the thoughts of hunger.
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 Marie, 826CHI
A monkey named Chesley saves the animals of the forest from an evil Master!
by Jack, Grade 5, 826 New Orleans
In this transcript, a student shares three clear actions to stand up to bullies.
by Alfredo Enriquez-Aguilar, 826 Valencia
Have you ever wanted to care for a dragon? This poem teaches you how.
by Elian de Leon, 826NYC
A poem that focuses on color and translates it into sensory details.
by Liliana, 826DC
This student’s heartbreaking personal narrative describes what it can feel like to have your parents get divorced.
by Madison, 826 New Orleans
This poem leaves the reader descriptive clues to help them guess the mystery food.
by Maia Sears, 826michigan
This student describes exciting things the future will bring, like elevators that can reach space!
by Sherilyn, 826LA
A story about what to do when one witnesses bullying.
by Reyes, 826NYC
A creative field guide to the eastern gray squirrel.
by Athena, 826NYC
An "I Am From" superhero persona poem.
by Yarely, 826michigan
A poem about grandma. English and Spanish versions included.
by Natalie, 826 Valencia
A recipe for how to create a legendary rapper.
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 Erriyanna, 826michigan
An epic poem about a younger sister. English and Spanish versions included.
by Walter Linares, Age 11, 826 Valencia
The secrets of a spy in a red venom suit unfold...
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 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 Alex, 826michigan
Percy Jackson’s story retold—in a single tweet!
by Uma, 826NYC
A witty set of foolproof pickup lines.
by Dahlia-Rose, 826NYC
A field guide to Queen Anne’s Lace and a day in the life from a flower’s perspective.
by Juna, 826michigan
A poem about taking the world in—and letting go.
by Lux, 826NYC
A student reflects on their experiences with bullying and how they’ll take a stand in the future.
Elsie, 826 New Orleans
In this poem, a student celebrates individuality.
by Sumaya, 826 MSP
This poem uses analogies to describe different objects the writer would like to be.
by Sebastian, 826 Valencia
In this story, a student finds a surprise within a Takis bag and makes a wish for a dream school.
by Jeffrey, 826DC
In this "I Wish" poem, written in both Spanish and English, a student dreams of a more colorful world.
by Marvin, 826CHI
A troubled young man ends up in another boy’s dreams.
by Ciaran, 826NYC
A creative field guide to a Mourning Cloak butterfly who lives in New York City.
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 Chelsea, 826NYC
An academically-inclined student passes on their favorite tips for having fun before fifth grade starts.
by Ava Tassinari, 826 Boston
A story about a bullying incident on the school bus.
by Lyric White, age 10, 826 Valencia
A magical mountain quest to save a mermaid.
by Quinn, 826CHI
A piece that explores the dynamic nature of love and might just become your next Valentine's Day card.
by Kelis, 826NYC
On the planet Mars, Zoe must defeat the supervillain Zygorn to avenge her family! Wait—was it all a dream?
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 Felix E., 826 Valencia
A student's fear is conquered after a startling discovery.
by Dy’Stonie V., Grade 5, 826 New Orleans
A poem that highlights the bond between grandparent, grandchild, and a sweet perfume.
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 Giannyl Guerrero Cabral, 826 Boston
A practical list of ways anyone can stop bullying.
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 Emmanuel, 826DC
A personal narrative about a tender first sighting between brothers on a family trip to El Salvador.
by Charm R., Grade 5, 826 New Orleans
This poem tells the story of a courageous little bird.
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 Keila S.O., 826michigan
An “I Am From” poem about growing up in Detroit.
by Eric, 826CHI
This student recounts a fictional chat with George Washington about the American Revolution over a meal.
by Jekaya, 826 Boston
A student reflects on what it takes to stand up to bullies and speak up for others.
by Marisol, 826michigan
A young girl's poem about all the life she sees in her yard. English and Spanish versions included.
by Zoe Gomez, 826 New Orleans
Through a series of questions, this poem asks what if the world was different.
by Charlotte Velasquez, age 8, 826 Valencia
A school’s spooky secret comes to light. Does a hair-cutting monster really exist?
by Madhav, 826michigan
In this short epic, a pig and a snail pilot a NASA rocket and bring breaking news back to New York City.
by Damian A., Grade 4, 826CHI
A student describes their bear-y fun imaginary friend.
by Jonathan Rivera Navarro, 826 Valencia
This poem celebrates and mourns a taco.
by Simone, 826michigan
A poem about appreciating trees and why we should study them.
by Kayla, 826LA
This author reflects on an act of kindness to someone in need.
by Charlie, 826michigan
A very scientific retelling of why dinosaurs went extinct.
by Aanya K., Grade 3, 826 LA
In this set of diary entries, a student explores what makes a villain.
by Kevin J. Ortiz, 826DC
A personal narrative about a trip to Ocean City, a lonely puppy, and sharing our fears with others.
by Robert, 826CHI
A collection of haikus spanning books and cosmology.
by Luis Cornejo, age 9, 826 Valencia
A student recalls the first time they saw a ghost.
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.
Armani, 826 New Orleans
A poem about the magic of bath time.
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 Faisa, age 9, 826 MSP
This poem writes from the perspective of a Prairie Shooting Star flower, detailing a day in its life.
by Victor, 826 Valencia
An ode to Beans, Rice, and Chicken.
by Mohamed F., 826 MSP
This poem uses descriptive language to leave the reader clues about the animal it is depicting.
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 Lukas, 826 New Orleans
A student challenges the existence of Confederate monuments in New Orleans and builds the case for a monument to The Houma Nation instead.
by Rechab T., 826DC
This poem takes a surreal approach to describing a scene.
by Keila, 826michigan
An "I A 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 Angel Flores Vazquez, 826 Valencia
This poem illustrates the effectiveness of descriptive language.
by Zari P., Grade 4, 826DC
A playful "I am" poem that explores what's possible.
by Caleigh, 826LA
A letter offering a concise yet compelling list of all that awaits in LA.
by Robert, 826CHI
A poem that explores the struggles of mine workers.
by Salma, Grade 5, 826 Boston
A student reminds herself of the many ways she shines
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 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 Yasmeen W, Grade 3, 826 Valencia
In this descriptive short story, a student overcomes their fear of turning on their video.
by Antoni L., 826DC
In this poem, the author discusses their origins through metaphor.
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 Emma D., Grade 4, 826LA
A plea to the next President to provide better access to mental health treatment for youth.
by Marisa, 826michigan
A series of tweets about an adventurous cat named Marcus. #SuperCat #Meow
by Christian, 826 New Orleans
This poem uses personification to introduce the audience to an olive and its cousin, Jeff.
by Meredith, 826michigan
A poem about globe-sized dreams.
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 Jesús, 826 Valencia
In this superhero story, Spyman is on an important mission—saving donuts from becoming bagels!
by Nana-Wadieh, 826NYC
This student writes about accepting people the way they are and putting yourself in someone else’s shoes.
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 Marisa, 826NYC
A student reports on Islamophobia, using research and interviews to explore this mindset and its damaging repercussions.
Kendall, 826 New Orleans
An ode to an animal friend.
by Sabir, 826 MSP
In this shape poem, a student walks you through a typical day in her neighborhood.
by Milo, 826NYC
A creative origin story in which a programmer simultaneously creates life and biology in a program.
by Kenneth Vasquez, Age 10, 826 Valencia
A student reflects on their love of soccer.
by K.M., 826DC
In this piece, a student describes the challenges of being a superhero and reflects on their power to shine.
by Ehmely, 826CHI
A crucial missive for anyone playing a high-stakes game of "Hide and Seek".
by Kaitlyn, 826NYC
A creation myth reimagined in a poem.
Raven, 826 New Orleans
You guessed it—an ode to cookies.
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 Elena Chambers, 826michigan
Thinking of Cherry Coke lip gloss, community, and dancing, this narrator celebrates life from their front stoop.
by Esperanza R., Grade 3, 826 Valencia
A letter asking the next U.S. President to stop climate change and save our home.
by Olivia, 826NYC
An elegy for corn.
by Claire, 826CHI
A poem about “unfinding” what was known and learning to explore.
by Maria, 826 Valencia
This student gives thanks to ordinary objects in an ode.
by Elaine, 826 Boston
A diary entry reflecting on a secret mission to Mars!
by Oscar, 826CHI
The story of a lifetime—literally.
by Javier, 826DC
A student wishes for unexpected pops of color.
by Smila H., Age 10, 826LA
A powerful acrostic poem that shares an encouraging message.
by Salimatou, 826NYC
Together, a princess with superpowers and an orphan-turned-sidekick must save the king and queen of kingdom Atarica!
by Athena, 826NYC
In this poem, a student explores both the seen and unseen powers of a superhero.
by Jalen, 826NYC
A series of superhero haiku inspired by engineering secret lairs.
by Jude, 826michigan
A student describes life in the future, complete with 3-D pens and hologram television!
by Alexa, 826michigan
A poem that tastes like pepperoni pizza.
by Violeta, 826CHI
A monster's routine trip for tuna sandwich ingredients results in a broken arm!
by Ivan Newton Ponce, 826 Valencia
This poem uses sensory details to describe the writer's favorite places.
by Talia, 826NYC
A creative field guide to Sea Lettuce.
by Joseline, 826DC
A personal narrative about a teensie, tiny bit of jealousy for a new baby sister turning into love.
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.
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.
Ren, 826 New Orleans
In this poem, a student explores what summer means to them.
by Hanako M., Age 10, 826michigan
A "sense"-sational poem about the flowers in their yard.
by Kevin, 826LA
A letter from the author to the author on appreciating both the unconventional and conventional parts of oneself.
by Natalia, 826CHI
A story told by her grandfather leads Betty on a journey where fiction and reality collide.
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 Daphne, 826 Valencia
A girl named Chloe embarks on a heroic mission after discovering a new super-identity: Fluffy Justice!
by Naomi, 826michigan
A (mostly) love letter to a kiwi with delicious imagery.
by Marco, 826LA
A screenplay about a plane crash and an epic journey to Mexico, with a twist!
by Victor, 826 Valencia
This student gives thanks to ordinary objects in an ode.
by Aiden Spence, Grade 3, 826NYC
This poem describes all of the reasons why green is the best color.
by Kayamaghi, 826NYC
A lab experiment goes wrong and a humble scientist must save Superhero Land from a super speedy villain!
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 Ximena Torres, Age 9, 826 Valencia
A poem about the lessons your family can teach you.
by Camila R.G., Grade 4, 826LA
In this letter, a student asks the next U.S. President to help the homeless.
by Will, 826michigan
A student imagines life in the future.
by Girod, 826 New Orleans
This celebratory poem uses similes to list all of the things the writer loves about themself.
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 Fatima, 826michigan
A list poem about a beautiful room and a beautiful family in both English and Spanish.