Grades 3–5
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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.
Kendall, 826 New Orleans
An ode to an animal friend.
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 Kenneth Vasquez, Age 10, 826 Valencia
A student reflects on their love of soccer.
by Jesús, 826 Valencia
In this superhero story, Spyman is on an important mission—saving donuts from becoming bagels!
by Zari P., Grade 4, 826DC
A playful "I am" poem that explores what's possible.
by Olivia, 826NYC
An elegy for corn.
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 Charm R., Grade 5, 826 New Orleans
This poem tells the story of a courageous little bird.
by Victor, 826 Valencia
An ode to Beans, Rice, and Chicken.
by Athena, 826NYC
In this poem, a student explores both the seen and unseen powers of a superhero.
by Oscar, 826CHI
The story of a lifetime—literally.
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.
Nur Schlenker, Age 10, 826 Valencia
A student paints two images, one of Halloween night, and the second of home.
by Keila, 826michigan
An "I A From" poem. English and Spanish versions included.
by Ava Tassinari, 826 Boston
A story about a bullying incident on the school bus.
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 Edwin M.V., Age 8, 826 Valencia
A student bravely faces the first day of school.
by Girod, 826 New Orleans
This celebratory poem uses similes to list all of the things the writer loves about themself.
by Sabir, 826 MSP
In this shape poem, a student walks you through a typical day in her neighborhood.
by Madison, 826 New Orleans
This poem leaves the reader descriptive clues to help them guess the mystery food.
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 Mohamed F., 826 MSP
This poem uses descriptive language to leave the reader clues about the animal it is depicting.
by Jude, 826michigan
A student describes life in the future, complete with 3-D pens and hologram television!
by Erriyanna, 826michigan
An epic poem about a younger sister. English and Spanish versions included.
by Marisol, 826michigan
A young girl's poem about all the life she sees in her yard. English and Spanish versions included.
by Elian de Leon, 826NYC
A poem that focuses on color and translates it into sensory details.
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 Marisa, 826NYC
A student reports on Islamophobia, using research and interviews to explore this mindset and its damaging repercussions.
by Angel Flores Vazquez, 826 Valencia
This poem illustrates the effectiveness of descriptive language.
by Jaceon B., Grade 4, 826 New Orleans
A student describes their butter covered imaginary friend.
by Antoni L., 826DC
In this poem, the author discusses their origins through metaphor.
by Pearl L., Age 10, 826DC
A story about Rory the dragon, the defender of all genders.
by Alfredo Enriquez-Aguilar, 826 Valencia
Have you ever wanted to care for a dragon? This poem teaches you how.
by Donald W., Grade 4, 826michigan
A student describes their very helpful imaginary friend.
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!
Raven, 826 New Orleans
You guessed it—an ode to cookies.
by Elaine, 826 Boston
A diary entry reflecting on a secret mission to Mars!
by Kevin J. Ortiz, 826DC
A personal narrative about a trip to Ocean City, a lonely puppy, and sharing our fears with others.
by Emmanuel, 826DC
A personal narrative about a tender first sighting between brothers on a family trip to El Salvador.
by Ehmely, 826CHI
A crucial missive for anyone playing a high-stakes game of "Hide and Seek".
by Quinn, 826CHI
A piece that explores the dynamic nature of love and might just become your next Valentine's Day card.
by Reyes, 826NYC
A creative field guide to the eastern gray squirrel.
by Yasmeen W, Grade 3, 826 Valencia
In this descriptive short story, a student overcomes their fear of turning on their video.
by Naomi, 826michigan
A (mostly) love letter to a kiwi with delicious imagery.
by Chelsea, 826NYC
An academically-inclined student passes on their favorite tips for having fun before fifth grade starts.
by Camilla S.R., Grade 5, 826 Valencia
A student describes her imaginary friend from Funky Town.
by Natalia, 826CHI
A story told by her grandfather leads Betty on a journey where fiction and reality collide.
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 Lyric White, age 10, 826 Valencia
A magical mountain quest to save a mermaid.
by Kevin, 826LA
A letter from the author to the author on appreciating both the unconventional and conventional parts of oneself.
by Nana-Wadieh, 826NYC
This student writes about accepting people the way they are and putting yourself in someone else’s shoes.
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 Joshua, 826CHI
Alien monsters and a young boy forge a friendship over a dramatic series of events.
by Abdinasir, 826 MSP
This poem shares what someone might experience on Halloween.
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 Caleigh, 826LA
A letter offering a concise yet compelling list of all that awaits in LA.
by Alex, 826michigan
Percy Jackson’s story retold—in a single tweet!
by Matthew, Grade 3, 826 Boston
A student describes their mythic, Michael Jackson loving, imaginary friend!
by Alan, 826DC
This poem describes the thoughts of hunger.
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 Maria, 826 Valencia
This student gives thanks to ordinary objects in an ode.
by Milo, 826NYC
A creative origin story in which a programmer simultaneously creates life and biology in a program.
by Norah, Grade 5, 826DC
A student describes her mystical worm imaginary friend.
by Javier, 826DC
A student wishes for unexpected pops of color.
by Lux, 826NYC
A student reflects on their experiences with bullying and how they’ll take a stand in the future.
by Alexa, 826michigan
A poem that tastes like pepperoni pizza.
by Athena, 826NYC
An "I Am From" superhero persona poem.
by Sumaya, 826 MSP
This poem uses analogies to describe different objects the writer would like to be.
by Kelis, 826NYC
On the planet Mars, Zoe must defeat the supervillain Zygorn to avenge her family! Wait—was it all a dream?
Nasir Farmer, Age 8, 826 Boston
Our protagonist attempts to evade a boogieman invasion.
by Giannyl Guerrero Cabral, 826 Boston
A practical list of ways anyone can stop bullying.
by Salma, Grade 5, 826 Boston
A student reminds herself of the many ways she shines
by Yarely, 826michigan
A poem about grandma. English and Spanish versions included.
by Fatima, 826michigan
A list poem about a beautiful room and a beautiful family in both English and Spanish.
Elsie, 826 New Orleans
In this poem, a student celebrates individuality.
by Charlotte Velasquez, age 8, 826 Valencia
A school’s spooky secret comes to light. Does a hair-cutting monster really exist?
by Ciaran, 826NYC
A creative field guide to a Mourning Cloak butterfly who lives in New York City.
by Joseline, 826DC
A personal narrative about a teensie, tiny bit of jealousy for a new baby sister turning into love.
by Juna, 826michigan
A poem about taking the world in—and letting go.
by Violeta, 826CHI
A monster's routine trip for tuna sandwich ingredients results in a broken arm!
by Claire, 826CHI
A poem about “unfinding” what was known and learning to explore.
by Ximena Torres, Age 9, 826 Valencia
A poem about the lessons your family can teach you.
by Marie, 826CHI
A monkey named Chesley saves the animals of the forest from an evil Master!
by Uma, 826NYC
A witty set of foolproof pickup lines.
by Smila H., Age 10, 826LA
A powerful acrostic poem that shares an encouraging message.
by K.M., 826DC
In this piece, a student describes the challenges of being a superhero and reflects on their power to shine.
by Kaitlyn, 826NYC
A creation myth reimagined in a poem.
by Sebastian, 826 Valencia
In this story, a student finds a surprise within a Takis bag and makes a wish for a dream school.
Dominick Contreras Rodriguez, age 9, 826 Valencia
A student traces his identity through food and family.
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!
Perla Ortega, Age 9, 826 Valencia
A poet sweetly appreciates a teacher for her kindness.
by Luis Cornejo, age 9, 826 Valencia
A student recalls the first time they saw a ghost.
by Ayelen C., Age 9, 826 Valencia
A student's sweet letter to their grandmother.
by Caira N., Grade 5, 826NYC
A student lists all the reasons why her school is the best!
by Aiden Spence, Grade 3, 826NYC
This poem describes all of the reasons why green is the best color.
by Daphne, 826 Valencia
A girl named Chloe embarks on a heroic mission after discovering a new super-identity: Fluffy Justice!
by Esperanza R., Grade 3, 826 Valencia
A letter asking the next U.S. President to stop climate change and save our home.
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.
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 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 Aanya K., Grade 3, 826 LA
In this set of diary entries, a student explores what makes a villain.
by Rechab T., 826DC
This poem takes a surreal approach to describing a scene.
by Ivan Newton Ponce, 826 Valencia
This poem uses sensory details to describe the writer's favorite places.
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 Marisa, 826michigan
A series of tweets about an adventurous cat named Marcus. #SuperCat #Meow
Jade Latiker, Grade 3, 826 New Orleans
A student introduces two ghoulish friends.
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 Camila R.G., Grade 4, 826LA
In this letter, a student asks the next U.S. President to help the homeless.
by Felix E., 826 Valencia
A student's fear is conquered after a startling discovery.
by Robert, 826CHI
A poem that explores the struggles of mine workers.
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 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 Sherilyn, 826LA
A story about what to do when one witnesses bullying.
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 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!
Roberto Misael Aguilera, Age 9, 826 Valencia
Discover the fearful T-Rex Koala--koala by day, monster by night!
by Marco, 826LA
A screenplay about a plane crash and an epic journey to Mexico, with a twist!
by Brooklyn., Grade 3, 826michigan
A student's reflects on all the love in her life in hopes of inspiring others.
by Jack, Grade 5, 826 New Orleans
In this transcript, a student shares three clear actions to stand up to bullies.
by Luana Anticona Nolasco, age 10, 826 Valencia
An eerie encounter with a shapeshifter after a grocery run.
by Walter Linares, Age 11, 826 Valencia
The secrets of a spy in a red venom suit unfold...
by Hope L.C., Age 10, 826DC
A silly story about dragon fruits -- no wait, fruit dragons!
by Will, 826michigan
A student imagines life in the future.
by Jeffrey, 826DC
In this "I Wish" poem, written in both Spanish and English, a student dreams of a more colorful world.
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 Ana, 826DC
A student learns an important lesson about staying calm while recounting a trip to Olive Garden that spiraled out of control!
by Kayamaghi, 826NYC
A lab experiment goes wrong and a humble scientist must save Superhero Land from a super speedy villain!
by Keila S.O., 826michigan
An “I Am From” poem about growing up in Detroit.
by Elena Chambers, 826michigan
Thinking of Cherry Coke lip gloss, community, and dancing, this narrator celebrates life from their front stoop.
by Charlie, 826michigan
A very scientific retelling of why dinosaurs went extinct.
by Talia, 826NYC
A creative field guide to Sea Lettuce.
by Maia Sears, 826michigan
This student describes exciting things the future will bring, like elevators that can reach space!
by Jalen, 826NYC
A series of superhero haiku inspired by engineering secret lairs.
by Dahlia-Rose, 826NYC
A field guide to Queen Anne’s Lace and a day in the life from a flower’s perspective.
by Liliana, 826DC
This student’s heartbreaking personal narrative describes what it can feel like to have your parents get divorced.
Ren, 826 New Orleans
In this poem, a student explores what summer means to them.
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 Kathryn, 826NYC
A very scientific origin poem about french fries, starting with an argument between the sun and the moon.
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 Salimatou, 826NYC
Together, a princess with superpowers and an orphan-turned-sidekick must save the king and queen of kingdom Atarica!
by Jonathan Rivera Navarro, 826 Valencia
This poem celebrates and mourns a taco.
by Hanako M., Age 10, 826michigan
A "sense"-sational poem about the flowers in their yard.
by Kayla, 826LA
This author reflects on an act of kindness to someone in need.
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 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
This student gives thanks to ordinary objects in an ode.
by Damian A., Grade 4, 826CHI
A student describes their bear-y fun imaginary 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 Zoe Gomez, 826 New Orleans
Through a series of questions, this poem asks what if the world was different.
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 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 Penelope, 826 Valencia
In this superhero story, Super Duper Scarlet must save San Fran Superland from Doctor Nefario!
by Robert, 826CHI
A collection of haikus spanning books and cosmology.
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 Jekaya, 826 Boston
A student reflects on what it takes to stand up to bullies and speak up for others.
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.
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