Grades 3–5
Memoir, PoetryWritingYarely lives in a brick house in Detroit. She lives with her mom, dad, brothers, and two dogs. She’s grateful for her mom having a baby boy. Three words that describe her are smart, kind, and happy. Reading famous books inspires her to write.
Last winter my grandma came from Reno.
I was happy because I hadn’t seen her
in a long time.
When she comes, my mom cooks.
I also bake chocolate chip cookies,
then we all gather around.
It tastes like hot cocoa or when two dogs
are happy and wag their tails.
She also brings me chocolate
that looks like little rocks.
It is crunchy and colorful like
a rainbow.
The chocolate smells sweet.
My grandma smells like
her house in Reno.
My grandma’s laugh is like
my mom’s, sounding delightful.
When I run with my grandma,
I feel the rare air.
* * . *
El invierno pasado mi abuela vino de Reno.
Yo estaba feliz porque no la había visto
en mucho tiempo.
Cuando ella viene, mi mamá cocina.
Y yo también horneo galletas con trocitos de chocolate,
y luego todos nos reunimos.
Tiene el sabor de chocolate caliente o como cuando dos perros
están felices y mueven sus colas.
Ella también me trae chocolates
que se parecen a pequeñas rocas.
Son crujientes y de colores como
el arcoiris.
El chocolate huele a dulce.
Mi abuela huele a
su casa en Reno
La risa de mi abuela es igual
que la de mi mamá, agradable.
Cuando corro con mi abuela
siento el aire raro.
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by Brandan Pierce, 826michigan
by Brandan Pierce, 826michigan
In this project, students explore poetry as a way of explaining and defining the world around them via the people,…
Rare Air / Aire raro is 826michigan's Young Author's Book Project for the 2015–2016 school year written by the fourth-grade students of Ms. Lowe's class at Roberto Clemente Learning Academy in Detroit and it is FULL of firsts for us. It is the first YABP written in Detroit. The first YABP of poetry. And the first that is completely bilingual (English and Spanish). With a foreword by inaugural poet Richard Blanco, and introduction by volunteer and retired teacher Sandy Karolak, Rare Air / Aire raro is full of exceptional and charming poems on family, neighborhood, and memories. Poems were translated into Spanish by students, family members, and volunteers to allow for students to share their voices with their community. So join fourth-grade writers of Roberto Clemente Learning Academy in feeling the rare air in this beautiful book of bilingual poetry. A bilingual collection of poetry written by fourth graders at Roberto Clemente Learning Academy in Detroit.
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by Christian, 826 New Orleans
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by Kathryn, 826NYC
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by Luana Anticona Nolasco, age 10, 826 Valencia
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Perla Ortega, Age 9, 826 Valencia
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Ren, 826 New Orleans
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by Madhav, 826michigan
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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.
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A young girl's poem about all the life she sees in her yard. English and Spanish versions included.
by Eric, 826CHI
This student recounts a fictional chat with George Washington about the American Revolution over a meal.
by Lux, 826NYC
A student reflects on their experiences with bullying and how they’ll take a stand in the future.
by Kenneth Vasquez, Age 10, 826 Valencia
A student reflects on their love of soccer.
by Talia, 826NYC
A creative field guide to Sea Lettuce.
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by Giannyl Guerrero Cabral, 826 Boston
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On the planet Mars, Zoe must defeat the supervillain Zygorn to avenge her family! Wait—was it all a dream?
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A poem about the lessons your family can teach you.
by Alex, 826michigan
Percy Jackson’s story retold—in a single tweet!
by Keila, 826michigan
An "I Am From" poem. 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 Erriyanna, 826michigan
An epic poem about a younger sister. English and Spanish versions included.
by Camilla S.R., Grade 5, 826 Valencia
A student describes her imaginary friend from Funky Town.
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 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.
Jade Latiker, Grade 3, 826 New Orleans
A student introduces two ghoulish friends.
by Alan, 826DC
This poem describes the thoughts of hunger.
by Marisa, 826michigan
A series of tweets about an adventurous cat named Marcus. #SuperCat #Meow
by Kaitlyn, 826NYC
A creation myth reimagined in a poem.
by Caira N., Grade 5, 826NYC
A student lists all the reasons why her school is the best!
by Donald W., Grade 4, 826michigan
A student describes their very helpful imaginary friend.
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 Natalie, 826 Valencia
A recipe for how to create a legendary rapper.
by Jeffrey, 826DC
In this "I Wish" poem, written in both Spanish and English, a student dreams of a more colorful world.
by Simone, 826michigan
A poem about appreciating trees and why we should study them.
by Ehmely, 826CHI
A crucial missive for anyone playing a high-stakes game of "Hide and Seek".
by Ivan Newton Ponce, 826 Valencia
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by Ciaran, 826NYC
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by Kevin J. Ortiz, 826DC
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by Emma D., Grade 4, 826LA
A plea to the next President to provide better access to mental health treatment for youth.
by Fatima, 826michigan
A list poem about a beautiful room and a beautiful family in both English and Spanish.
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 Madison, 826 New Orleans
This poem leaves the reader descriptive clues to help them guess the mystery food.
by Brooklyn., Grade 3, 826michigan
A student's reflects on all the love in her life in hopes of inspiring others.
by Felix E., 826 Valencia
A student's fear is conquered after a startling discovery.
by Zoe Gomez, 826 New Orleans
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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 Rechab T., 826DC
This poem takes a surreal approach to describing a scene.
by Luis Cornejo, age 9, 826 Valencia
A student recalls the first time they saw a ghost.
by Victor, 826 Valencia
This student gives thanks to ordinary objects in an ode.
by Marvin, Grade 5, 826CHI
A troubled ghost haunts a boy’s dreams.
by Mohamed F., 826 MSP
This poem uses descriptive language to leave the reader clues about the animal it is depicting.
by Zaid Rodriguez, 826 Valencia
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by Smila H., Age 10, 826LA
A powerful acrostic poem that shares an encouraging message.
by Muawiye, 826 Boston
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by Quinn, 826CHI
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by Salma, Grade 5, 826 Boston
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by Charlotte Velasquez, age 8, 826 Valencia
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by Jalen, 826NYC
A series of superhero haiku inspired by engineering secret lairs.
by Matthew, Grade 3, 826 Boston
A student describes their mythic, Michael Jackson loving, imaginary friend!
by Oscar, 826CHI
The story of a lifetime—literally.
by Olivia, 826NYC
An elegy for corn.
by Jesús, 826 Valencia
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by Dy’Stonie V., Grade 5, 826 New Orleans
A poem that highlights the bond between grandparent, grandchild, and a sweet perfume.
by Yasmeen W, Grade 3, 826 Valencia
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by Marie, 826CHI
A monkey named Chesley saves the animals of the forest from an evil Master!
Nasir Farmer, Age 8, 826 Boston
Our protagonist attempts to evade a boogieman invasion.
by Elena Chambers, 826michigan
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by Sumaya, 826 MSP
This poem uses analogies to describe different objects the writer would like to be.
by Sabir, 826 MSP
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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 Sherilyn, 826LA
A story about what to do when one witnesses bullying.
by K.M., 826DC
In this piece, a student describes the challenges of being a superhero and reflects on their power to shine.
by Joshua, 826CHI
Alien monsters and a young boy forge a friendship over a dramatic series of events.
by Kevin, 826LA
A letter from the author to the author on appreciating both the unconventional and conventional parts of oneself.
by Dahlia-Rose, 826NYC
A field guide to Queen Anne’s Lace and a day in the life from a flower’s perspective.
Dylan Sanderson, Grade 5, 826NYC
A student dreams of the most joyful place in the world--somewhere with their family and money!
by Daphne, 826 Valencia
A girl named Chloe embarks on a heroic mission after discovering a new super-identity: Fluffy Justice!
Raven, 826 New Orleans
You guessed it—an ode to cookies.
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 Damian A., Grade 4, 826CHI
A student describes their bear-y fun imaginary friend.
by Emmanuel, 826DC
A personal narrative about a tender first sighting between brothers on a family trip to El Salvador.
by Charlie, 826michigan
A very scientific retelling of why dinosaurs went extinct.
by Joseline, 826DC
A personal narrative about a teensie, tiny bit of jealousy for a new baby sister turning into love.
Nur Schlenker, Age 10, 826 Valencia
A student paints two images, one of Halloween night, and the second of home.
by Robert, 826CHI
A poem that explores the struggles of mine workers.
by Jude, 826michigan
A student describes life in the future, complete with 3-D pens and hologram television!
by Marisa, 826NYC
A student reports on Islamophobia, using research and interviews to explore this mindset and its damaging repercussions.
by Jonathan Rivera Navarro, 826 Valencia
This poem celebrates and mourns a taco.
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 Walter Linares, Age 11, 826 Valencia
The secrets of a spy in a red venom suit unfold...
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 Liliana, 826DC
This student’s heartbreaking personal narrative describes what it can feel like to have your parents get divorced.
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 Winta, 826DC
A concise but essential list of survival tips in the event of a sweet disaster.
by Milo, 826NYC
A creative origin story in which a programmer simultaneously creates life and biology in a program.
by Violeta, 826CHI
A monster's routine trip for tuna sandwich ingredients results in a broken arm!
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 Angel Flores Vazquez, 826 Valencia
This poem illustrates the effectiveness of descriptive language.
by Victor, 826 Valencia
An ode to Beans, Rice, and Chicken.
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 Ava Tassinari, 826 Boston
A story about a bullying incident on the school bus.
by Caleigh, 826LA
A letter offering a concise yet compelling list of all that awaits in LA.
by Athena, 826NYC
An "I Am From" superhero persona poem.
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!
Elsie, 826 New Orleans
In this poem, a student celebrates individuality.
by Meredith, 826michigan
A poem about globe-sized dreams.
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 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!
Dominick Contreras Rodriguez, age 9, 826 Valencia
A student traces his identity through food and family.
by Camila R.G., Grade 4, 826LA
In this letter, a student asks the next U.S. President to help the homeless.
by Jack, Grade 5, 826 New Orleans
In this transcript, a student shares three clear actions to stand up to bullies.
by Keila S.O., 826michigan
An “I Am From” poem about growing up in Detroit.
by Uma, 826NYC
A witty set of foolproof pickup lines.
by Penelope, 826 Valencia
In this superhero story, Super Duper Scarlet must save San Fran Superland from Doctor Nefario!
by Jaceon B., Grade 4, 826 New Orleans
A student describes their butter covered imaginary friend.
by Javier, 826DC
A student wishes for unexpected pops of color.
by Zari P., Grade 4, 826DC
A playful "I am" poem that explores what's possible.
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 Hanako M., Age 10, 826michigan
A "sense"-sational poem about the flowers in their yard.
Noah Jean Marie, Age 9, 826NYC
A poet captures the freedom of dancing.
by Robert, 826CHI
A collection of haikus spanning books and cosmology.
by Athena, 826NYC
In this poem, a student explores both the seen and unseen powers of a superhero.
by Alfredo Enriquez-Aguilar, 826 Valencia
Have you ever wanted to care for a dragon? This poem teaches you how.
Kendall, 826 New Orleans
An ode to an animal friend.
Roberto Misael Aguilera, Age 9, 826 Valencia
Discover the fearful T-Rex Koala--koala by day, monster by night!
by Aanya K., Grade 3, 826 LA
In this set of diary entries, a student explores what makes a villain.
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 Abdinasir, 826 MSP
This poem shares what someone might experience on Halloween.
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 Nana-Wadieh, 826NYC
This student writes about accepting people the way they are and putting yourself in someone else’s shoes.
Armani, 826 New Orleans
A poem about the magic of bath time.
by Elaine, 826 Boston
A diary entry reflecting on a secret mission to Mars!
by Hope L.C., Age 10, 826DC
A silly story about dragon fruits -- no wait, fruit dragons!
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 Norah, Grade 5, 826DC
A student describes her mystical worm imaginary friend.
Vivien Norton, Age 12, 826michigan
A poet explores their love for writing with their friend.
by Edwin M.V., Age 8, 826 Valencia
A student bravely faces the first day of school.
by Salimatou, 826NYC
Together, a princess with superpowers and an orphan-turned-sidekick must save the king and queen of kingdom Atarica!
by Ayelen C., Age 9, 826 Valencia
A student's sweet letter to their grandmother.
by Esperanza R., Grade 3, 826 Valencia
A letter asking the next U.S. President to stop climate change and save our home.
by Charm R., Grade 5, 826 New Orleans
This poem tells the story of a courageous little bird.
by Reyes, 826NYC
A creative field guide to the eastern gray squirrel.
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