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.
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 Jack, Grade 5, 826 New Orleans
In this transcript, a student shares three clear actions to stand up to bullies.
by Jonathan Rivera Navarro, 826 Valencia
This poem celebrates and mourns a taco.
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 Faisa, age 9, 826 MSP
This poem writes from the perspective of a Prairie Shooting Star flower, detailing a day in its life.
by Jesús, 826 Valencia
In this superhero story, Spyman is on an important mission—saving donuts from becoming bagels!
by Edwin M.V., Age 8, 826 Valencia
A student bravely faces the first day of school.
Dominick Contreras Rodriguez, age 9, 826 Valencia
A student traces his identity through food and family.
by Zari P., Grade 4, 826DC
A playful "I am" poem that explores what's possible.
by Meredith, 826michigan
A poem about globe-sized dreams.
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 Fatima, 826michigan
A list poem about a beautiful room and a beautiful family in both English and Spanish.
by Keila, 826michigan
An "I A From" poem. English and Spanish versions included.
by Hope L.C., Age 10, 826DC
A silly story about dragon fruits -- no wait, fruit dragons!
by Camila R.G., Grade 4, 826LA
In this letter, a student asks the next U.S. President to help the homeless.
by Camilla S.R., Grade 5, 826 Valencia
A student describes her imaginary friend from Funky Town.
Ren, 826 New Orleans
In this poem, a student explores what summer means to them.
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 Elaine, 826 Boston
A diary entry reflecting on a secret mission to Mars!
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 Robert, 826CHI
A poem that explores the struggles of mine workers.
by Kevin J. Ortiz, 826DC
A personal narrative about a trip to Ocean City, a lonely puppy, and sharing our fears with others.
by Elian de Leon, 826NYC
A poem that focuses on color and translates it into sensory details.
by Clara, 826 Valencia
A detailed design for a new school that students would love, complete with outdoor spaces for tennis and ice-skating!
Armani, 826 New Orleans
A poem about the magic of bath time.
by Natalie, 826 Valencia
A recipe for how to create a legendary rapper.
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.
Nur Schlenker, Age 10, 826 Valencia
A student paints two images, one of Halloween night, and the second of home.
by Joseline, 826DC
A personal narrative about a teensie, tiny bit of jealousy for a new baby sister turning into love.
by Zoe Gomez, 826 New Orleans
Through a series of questions, this poem asks what if the world was different.
by Joshua, 826CHI
Alien monsters and a young boy forge a friendship over a dramatic series of events.
by Caleigh, 826LA
A letter offering a concise yet compelling list of all that awaits in LA.
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 Jaceon B., Grade 4, 826 New Orleans
A student describes their butter covered imaginary friend.
by Esperanza R., Grade 3, 826 Valencia
A letter asking the next U.S. President to stop climate change and save our home.
by Salma, Grade 5, 826 Boston
A student reminds herself of the many ways she shines
by Christian, 826 New Orleans
This poem uses personification to introduce the audience to an olive and its cousin, Jeff.
by Angel Flores Vazquez, 826 Valencia
This poem illustrates the effectiveness of descriptive language.
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 Juna, 826michigan
A poem about taking the world in—and letting go.
by Naomi, 826michigan
A (mostly) love letter to a kiwi with delicious imagery.
by Kayamaghi, 826NYC
A lab experiment goes wrong and a humble scientist must save Superhero Land from a super speedy villain!
by Athena, 826NYC
In this poem, a student explores both the seen and unseen powers of a superhero.
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 Norah, Grade 5, 826DC
A student describes her mystical worm imaginary friend.
by Eric, 826CHI
This student recounts a fictional chat with George Washington about the American Revolution over a meal.
by Penelope, 826 Valencia
In this superhero story, Super Duper Scarlet must save San Fran Superland from Doctor Nefario!
by Salimatou, 826NYC
Together, a princess with superpowers and an orphan-turned-sidekick must save the king and queen of kingdom Atarica!
by Marisol, 826michigan
A young girl's poem about all the life she sees in her yard. English and Spanish versions included.
by K.M., 826DC
In this piece, a student describes the challenges of being a superhero and reflects on their power to shine.
by Dy’Stonie V., Grade 5, 826 New Orleans
A poem that highlights the bond between grandparent, grandchild, and a sweet perfume.
by Sumaya, 826 MSP
This poem uses analogies to describe different objects the writer would like to be.
by Caira N., Grade 5, 826NYC
A student lists all the reasons why her school is the best!
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 Felix E., 826 Valencia
A student's fear is conquered after a startling discovery.
by Brooklyn., Grade 3, 826michigan
A student's reflects on all the love in her life in hopes of inspiring others.
by Kenneth Vasquez, Age 10, 826 Valencia
A student reflects on their love of soccer.
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 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 Charlotte Velasquez, age 8, 826 Valencia
A school’s spooky secret comes to light. Does a hair-cutting monster really exist?
by Ehmely, 826CHI
A crucial missive for anyone playing a high-stakes game of "Hide and Seek".
by Elena Chambers, 826michigan
Thinking of Cherry Coke lip gloss, community, and dancing, this narrator celebrates life from their front stoop.
by Quinn, 826CHI
A piece that explores the dynamic nature of love and might just become your next Valentine's Day card.
by Alan, 826DC
This poem describes the thoughts of hunger.
by Maria, 826 Valencia
This student gives thanks to ordinary objects in an ode.
by Smila H., Age 10, 826LA
A powerful acrostic poem that shares an encouraging message.
by Damian A., Grade 4, 826CHI
A student describes their bear-y fun imaginary friend.
by Giannyl Guerrero Cabral, 826 Boston
A practical list of ways anyone can stop bullying.
by Liliana, 826DC
This student’s heartbreaking personal narrative describes what it can feel like to have your parents get divorced.
by Lina, 826 Valencia
A mischievous recipe calling for 3 tablespoons of candy, 10 gallons of not laughing, and 100 gallons of mother.
by Ava Tassinari, 826 Boston
A story about a bullying incident on the school bus.
Perla Ortega, Age 9, 826 Valencia
A poet sweetly appreciates a teacher for her kindness.
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 Donald W., Grade 4, 826michigan
A student describes their very helpful imaginary friend.
by Marie, 826CHI
A monkey named Chesley saves the animals of the forest from an evil Master!
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 Hanako M., Age 10, 826michigan
A "sense"-sational poem about the flowers in their yard.
by Charm R., Grade 5, 826 New Orleans
This poem tells the story of a courageous little bird.
by Dahlia-Rose, 826NYC
A field guide to Queen Anne’s Lace and a day in the life from a flower’s perspective.
by Luana Anticona Nolasco, age 10, 826 Valencia
An eerie encounter with a shapeshifter after a grocery run.
by Marisa, 826NYC
A student reports on Islamophobia, using research and interviews to explore this mindset and its damaging repercussions.
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 Claire, 826CHI
A poem about “unfinding” what was known and learning to explore.
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 Yasmeen W, Grade 3, 826 Valencia
In this descriptive short story, a student overcomes their fear of turning on their video.
by Ciaran, 826NYC
A creative field guide to a Mourning Cloak butterfly who lives in New York City.
by Lux, 826NYC
A student reflects on their experiences with bullying and how they’ll take a stand in the future.
by Simone, 826michigan
A poem about appreciating trees and why we should study them.
by Kaitlyn, 826NYC
A creation myth reimagined in a poem.
by Nana-Wadieh, 826NYC
This student writes about accepting people the way they are and putting yourself in someone else’s shoes.
by Athena, 826NYC
An "I Am From" superhero persona poem.
by Keila S.O., 826michigan
An “I Am From” poem about growing up in Detroit.
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.
Kendall, 826 New Orleans
An ode to an animal friend.
Raven, 826 New Orleans
You guessed it—an ode to cookies.
by Reyes, 826NYC
A creative field guide to the eastern gray squirrel.
by Pearl L., Age 10, 826DC
A story about Rory the dragon, the defender of all genders.
by Marco, 826LA
A screenplay about a plane crash and an epic journey to Mexico, with a twist!
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 Sebastian, 826 Valencia
In this story, a student finds a surprise within a Takis bag and makes a wish for a dream school.
by Alex, 826michigan
Percy Jackson’s story retold—in a single tweet!
by Luis Cornejo, age 9, 826 Valencia
A student recalls the first time they saw a ghost.
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 Sherilyn, 826LA
A story about what to do when one witnesses bullying.
by Jeffrey, 826DC
In this "I Wish" poem, written in both Spanish and English, a student dreams of a more colorful world.
Roberto Misael Aguilera, Age 9, 826 Valencia
Discover the fearful T-Rex Koala--koala by day, monster by night!
by Aiden Spence, Grade 3, 826NYC
This poem describes all of the reasons why green is the best color.
by Winta, 826DC
A concise but essential list of survival tips in the event of a sweet disaster.
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 Alfredo Enriquez-Aguilar, 826 Valencia
Have you ever wanted to care for a dragon? This poem teaches you how.
Jade Latiker, Grade 3, 826 New Orleans
A student introduces two ghoulish friends.
by Alexa, 826michigan
A poem that tastes like pepperoni pizza.
by Kevin, 826LA
A letter from the author to the author on appreciating both the unconventional and conventional parts of oneself.
by Abdinasir, 826 MSP
This poem shares what someone might experience on Halloween.
by Madison, 826 New Orleans
This poem leaves the reader descriptive clues to help them guess the mystery food.
by Oscar, 826CHI
The story of a lifetime—literally.
by Ximena Torres, Age 9, 826 Valencia
A poem about the lessons your family can teach you.
by Sabir, 826 MSP
In this shape poem, a student walks you through a typical day in her neighborhood.
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 Milo, 826NYC
A creative origin story in which a programmer simultaneously creates life and biology in a program.
by Erriyanna, 826michigan
An epic poem about a younger sister. English and Spanish versions included.
Nasir Farmer, Age 8, 826 Boston
Our protagonist attempts to evade a boogieman invasion.
by Will, 826michigan
A student imagines life in the future.
Elsie, 826 New Orleans
In this poem, a student celebrates individuality.
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 Talia, 826NYC
A creative field guide to Sea Lettuce.
by Javier, 826DC
A student wishes for unexpected pops of color.
by Victor, 826 Valencia
This student gives thanks to ordinary objects in an ode.
by Daphne, 826 Valencia
A girl named Chloe embarks on a heroic mission after discovering a new super-identity: Fluffy Justice!
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 Walter Linares, Age 11, 826 Valencia
The secrets of a spy in a red venom suit unfold...
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 Emmanuel, 826DC
A personal narrative about a tender first sighting between brothers on a family trip to El Salvador.
by Natalia, 826CHI
A story told by her grandfather leads Betty on a journey where fiction and reality collide.
by Rechab T., 826DC
This poem takes a surreal approach to describing a scene.
by Aanya K., Grade 3, 826 LA
In this set of diary entries, a student explores what makes a villain.
by Robert, 826CHI
A collection of haikus spanning books and cosmology.
by Kelis, 826NYC
On the planet Mars, Zoe must defeat the supervillain Zygorn to avenge her family! Wait—was it all a dream?
by Jude, 826michigan
A student describes life in the future, complete with 3-D pens and hologram television!
by Jekaya, 826 Boston
A student reflects on what it takes to stand up to bullies and speak up for others.
by Maia Sears, 826michigan
This student describes exciting things the future will bring, like elevators that can reach space!
by Uma, 826NYC
A witty set of foolproof pickup lines.
by Ayelen C., Age 9, 826 Valencia
A student's sweet letter to their grandmother.
by Charlie, 826michigan
A very scientific retelling of why dinosaurs went extinct.
by Victor, 826 Valencia
An ode to Beans, Rice, and Chicken.
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 Kayla, 826LA
This author reflects on an act of kindness to someone in need.
by Marisa, 826michigan
A series of tweets about an adventurous cat named Marcus. #SuperCat #Meow
by Lyric White, age 10, 826 Valencia
A magical mountain quest to save a mermaid.
by Matthew, Grade 3, 826 Boston
A student describes their mythic, Michael Jackson loving, imaginary friend!
by Marvin, Grade 5, 826CHI
A troubled ghost haunts a boy’s dreams.
by Emma D., Grade 4, 826LA
A plea to the next President to provide better access to mental health treatment for youth.
by Mohamed F., 826 MSP
This poem uses descriptive language to leave the reader clues about the animal it is depicting.
by Antoni L., 826DC
In this poem, the author discusses their origins through metaphor.
by Kathryn, 826NYC
A very scientific origin poem about french fries, starting with an argument between the sun and the moon.
by Olivia, 826NYC
An elegy for corn.
by Jalen, 826NYC
A series of superhero haiku inspired by engineering secret lairs.
by Chelsea, 826NYC
An academically-inclined student passes on their favorite tips for having fun before fifth grade starts.
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 Girod, 826 New Orleans
This celebratory poem uses similes to list all of the things the writer loves about themself.
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