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.
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 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 Nathan Chavez, Grade 3, Oakland, CA
This poem shares a deep love for the one, the only, the GOAT of stone fruit. . . avocados!
by Liliana, 826DC
This student’s heartbreaking personal narrative describes what it can feel like to have your parents get divorced.
by Ivan Newton Ponce, 826 Valencia
This poem uses sensory details to describe the writer's favorite places.
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 Sumaya, 826 MSP
This poem uses analogies to describe different objects the writer would like to be.
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 Lux, 826NYC
A student reflects on their experiences with bullying and how they’ll take a stand in the future.
by Charm R., Grade 5, 826 New Orleans
This poem tells the story of a courageous little bird.
by Jude, 826michigan
A student describes life in the future, complete with 3-D pens and hologram television!
by Hanako M., Age 10, 826michigan
A "sense"-sational poem about the flowers in their yard.
by Jaceon B., Grade 4, 826 New Orleans
A student describes their butter covered imaginary friend.
by Travis Cao, Age 8, 826 Valencia
This poem shows the importance of saying thank you to yourself!
by Natalie, 826 Valencia
A recipe for how to create a legendary rapper.
by Marie, 826CHI
A monkey named Chesley saves the animals of the forest from an evil Master!
by Nana-Wadieh, 826NYC
This student writes about accepting people the way they are and putting yourself in someone else’s shoes.
Day M., Grade 4, 826 MSP
An ode to a poet's love for their culture and family.
by Joseline, 826DC
A personal narrative about a teensie, tiny bit of jealousy for a new baby sister turning into love.
Nasir Farmer, Age 8, 826 Boston
Our protagonist attempts to evade a boogieman invasion.
Dominick Contreras Rodriguez, age 9, 826 Valencia
A student traces his identity through food and family.
by Giannyl Guerrero Cabral, 826 Boston
A practical list of ways anyone can stop bullying.
by Marisol, 826michigan
A young girl's poem about all the life she sees in her yard. English and Spanish versions included.
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 Madison, 826 New Orleans
This poem leaves the reader descriptive clues to help them guess the mystery food.
Ren, 826 New Orleans
In this poem, a student explores what summer means to them.
by Edwin M.V., Age 8, 826 Valencia
A student bravely faces the first day of school.
by Will, 826michigan
A student imagines life in the future.
by Olivia, 826NYC
An elegy for corn.
by K.M., 826DC
In this piece, a student describes the challenges of being a superhero and reflects on their power to shine.
by Zoe Gomez, 826 New Orleans
Through a series of questions, this poem asks what if the world was different.
by Yasmeen Whitney, Age 9, 826 Valencia
This poem declares a student's love for snow globes!
by Charlie, 826michigan
A very scientific retelling of why dinosaurs went extinct.
by Dahlia-Rose, 826NYC
A field guide to Queen Anne’s Lace and a day in the life from a flower’s perspective.
by Simone, 826michigan
A poem about appreciating trees and why we should study them.
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 Joshua, 826CHI
Alien monsters and a young boy forge a friendship over a dramatic series of events.
by Yasmeen W, Grade 3, 826 Valencia
In this descriptive short story, a student overcomes their fear of turning on their video.
by Claire, 826CHI
A poem about “unfinding” what was known and learning to explore.
by Daphne, 826 Valencia
A girl named Chloe embarks on a heroic mission after discovering a new super-identity: Fluffy Justice!
by Kayla, 826LA
This author reflects on an act of kindness to someone in need.
by Hope L.C., Age 10, 826DC
A silly story about dragon fruits -- no wait, fruit dragons!
by Jacob P., age 11, 826 LA
An iPad, a ghost, and an unexpected friendship.
by Erriyanna, 826michigan
An epic poem about a younger sister. English and Spanish versions included.
by Zari P., Grade 4, 826DC
A playful "I am" poem that explores what's possible.
by Marco, 826LA
A screenplay about a plane crash and an epic journey to Mexico, with a twist!
by Sahni Yokley-Wash, age 9, 826 Valencia
Will this story's brave hero be able to survive a frightening forest adventure?
by Sabir, 826 MSP
In this shape poem, a student walks you through a typical day in her neighborhood.
by Luis Cornejo, age 9, 826 Valencia
A student recalls the first time they saw a ghost.
by Alexa, 826michigan
A poem that tastes like pepperoni pizza.
by Meredith, 826michigan
A poem about globe-sized dreams.
by Athena, 826NYC
In this poem, a student explores both the seen and unseen powers of a superhero.
by Jesús, 826 Valencia
In this superhero story, Spyman is on an important mission—saving donuts from becoming bagels!
by Kaitlyn, 826NYC
A creation myth reimagined in a poem.
by Penelope, 826 Valencia
In this superhero story, Super Duper Scarlet must save San Fran Superland from Doctor Nefario!
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 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 Kelis, 826NYC
On the planet Mars, Zoe must defeat the supervillain Zygorn to avenge her family! Wait—was it all a dream?
by Genesis Vela Vela, age 9, 826 Valencia
Learn about the food, culture, and history of Mexico… from Día De Los Muertos to dinosaurs!
by Christian, 826 New Orleans
This poem uses personification to introduce the audience to an olive and its cousin, Jeff.
by Victor, 826 Valencia
An ode to Beans, Rice, and Chicken.
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.
Raquel Campos, Age 10, 826 Valencia
Three friends, inspired by a stream of butterflies, bake a beautiful cake.
by Norah, Grade 5, 826DC
A student describes her mystical worm imaginary friend.
by Oscar, 826CHI
The story of a lifetime—literally.
by Lyric White, age 10, 826 Valencia
A magical mountain quest to save a mermaid.
by Ayelen C., Age 9, 826 Valencia
A student's sweet letter to their grandmother.
by Stacy Soe, Grade 4, 826 MSP
We are all reflections of the people we love most.
by Violeta, 826CHI
A monster's routine trip for tuna sandwich ingredients results in a broken arm!
by Kevin J. Ortiz, 826DC
A personal narrative about a trip to Ocean City, a lonely puppy, and sharing our fears with others.
by Ava Tassinari, 826 Boston
A story about a bullying incident on the school bus.
by Connor, Grade 5, Los Angeles, CA
Come adventure and defeat evil with a picklemobile full of superheroes!
Vivien Norton, Age 12, 826michigan
A poet explores their love for writing with their friend.
by Kayamaghi, 826NYC
A lab experiment goes wrong and a humble scientist must save Superhero Land from a super speedy villain!
by Girod, 826 New Orleans
This celebratory poem uses similes to list all of the things the writer loves about themself.
by Angel Flores Vazquez, 826 Valencia
This poem illustrates the effectiveness of descriptive language.
Kendall, 826 New Orleans
An ode to an animal friend.
Axel Fuentes-Cruz, age 9, 826 Valencia
Three friends meet a frightening fate in this terrifying tale.
by Fatima, 826michigan
A list poem about a beautiful room and a beautiful family in both English and Spanish.
by Dy’Stonie V., Grade 5, 826 New Orleans
A poem that highlights the bond between grandparent, grandchild, and a sweet perfume.
by Chelsea, Grade 5, 826NYC
A student passes on their favorite tips for having fun and surviving fifth grade.
by Marisa, 826michigan
A series of tweets about an adventurous cat named Marcus. #SuperCat #Meow
by Athena, 826NYC
An "I Am From" superhero persona poem.
by Lina, 826 Valencia
A mischievous recipe calling for 3 tablespoons of candy, 10 gallons of not laughing, and 100 gallons of mother.
by Alexander C. Hernandez, Grade 4, 826 Valencia
A story about a dog who gets a second chance.
by Winta, 826DC
A concise but essential list of survival tips in the event of a sweet disaster.
by Naomi, 826michigan
A (mostly) love letter to a kiwi with delicious imagery.
by Matthew, Grade 3, 826 Boston
A student describes their mythic, Michael Jackson loving, imaginary friend!
by Ehmely, 826CHI
A crucial missive for anyone playing a high-stakes game of "Hide and Seek".
by Keila, 826michigan
An "I Am From" poem. English and Spanish versions included.
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 Alan, 826DC
This poem describes the thoughts of hunger.
by Kenneth Vasquez, Age 10, 826 Valencia
A student reflects on their love of soccer.
by Alex, 826michigan
Percy Jackson’s story retold—in a single tweet!
by Keila S.O., 826michigan
An “I Am From” poem about growing up in Detroit.
Roberto Misael Aguilera, Age 9, 826 Valencia
Discover the fearful T-Rex Koala--koala by day, monster by night!
by Robert, 826CHI
A collection of haikus spanning books and cosmology.
by Emma D., Grade 4, 826LA
A plea to the next President to provide better access to mental health treatment for youth.
Perla Ortega, Age 9, 826 Valencia
A poet sweetly appreciates a teacher for her kindness.
by Quinn, 826CHI
A piece that explores the dynamic nature of love and might just become your next Valentine's Day card.
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 Emmanuel, 826DC
A personal narrative about a tender first sighting between brothers on a family trip to El Salvador.
Jade Latiker, Grade 3, 826 New Orleans
A student introduces two ghoulish friends.
by Salimatou, Grade 5, 826NYC
Together, a princess with superpowers and an orphan-turned-sidekick must save the king and queen of kingdom Atarica!
by Kelsey F., Grade 5, 826 Valencia
This poem shares an honest look at a big feeling: anxiety
by Elena Chambers, 826michigan
Thinking of Cherry Coke lip gloss, community, and dancing, this narrator celebrates life from their front stoop.
by Charlotte Velasquez, age 8, 826 Valencia
A school’s spooky secret comes to light. Does a hair-cutting monster really exist?
by Evelyn DiRocco, Grade 5, Andover, MA
Evil doesn't stand a chance against this young superhero.
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 Reyes, 826NYC
A creative field guide to the eastern gray squirrel.
by Maia Sears, 826michigan
This student describes exciting things the future will bring, like elevators that can reach space!
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 Marvin, Grade 5, 826CHI
A troubled ghost haunts a boy’s dreams.
Nur Schlenker, Age 10, 826 Valencia
A student paints two images, one of Halloween night, and the second of home.
by Elian de Leon, 826NYC
A poem that focuses on color and translates it into sensory details.
by Jonathan Rivera Navarro, 826 Valencia
This poem celebrates and mourns a taco.
by Esperanza R., Grade 3, 826 Valencia
A letter asking the next U.S. President to stop climate change and save our home.
by Maria, 826 Valencia
This student gives thanks to ordinary objects in an ode.
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 Pearl L., Age 10, 826DC
A story about Rory the dragon, the defender of all genders.
Noah Jean Marie, Age 9, 826NYC
A poet captures the freedom of dancing.
Raven, 826 New Orleans
You guessed it—an ode to cookies.
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 Jack, Grade 5, 826 New Orleans
In this transcript, a student shares three clear actions to stand up to bullies.
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 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.)
Miracle W., Age 9, 826DC
A speaker named Hershey paints their absurd and creative world.
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 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 Eric, 826CHI
This student recounts a fictional chat with George Washington about the American Revolution over a meal.
by Ximena Torres, Age 9, 826 Valencia
A poem about the lessons your family can teach you.
by Iman Abdullah, Grade 4, 826NYC
This joyful letter to everyone's favorite pop star sings! Are you "Ready For It?"
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 Abdinasir, 826 MSP
This poem shares what someone might experience on Halloween.
Neveah H., Grade 5, 826NYC
Brooklyn is the place to be over the summer! A young writer reflects on how summertime cookouts bring family and community together.
by Damian A., Grade 4, 826CHI
A student describes their bear-y fun imaginary friend.
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 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 Smila H., Age 10, 826LA
A powerful acrostic poem that shares an encouraging message.
by Antoni L., 826DC
In this poem, the author discusses their origins through metaphor.
by Walter Linares, Age 11, 826 Valencia
The secrets of a spy in a red venom suit unfold...
by Uma, 826NYC
A witty set of foolproof pickup lines.
by Felix E., 826 Valencia
A student's fear is conquered after a startling discovery.
by Marisa, 826NYC
A student reports on Islamophobia, using research and interviews to explore this mindset and its damaging repercussions.
by Elaine, 826 Boston
A diary entry reflecting on a secret mission to Mars!
by Sherilyn, 826LA
A story about how to act with kindness in the face of bullying.
by Ciaran, 826NYC
A creative field guide to a Mourning Cloak butterfly who lives in New York City.
by Victor, 826 Valencia
This student gives thanks to ordinary objects in an ode.
by Salma, Grade 5, 826 Boston
A student reminds herself of the many ways she shines
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 Kathryn, 826NYC
A very scientific origin poem about french fries, starting with an argument between the sun and the moon.
by Camilla S.R., Grade 5, 826 Valencia
A student describes her imaginary friend from Funky Town.
by Milo, 826NYC
A creative origin story in which a programmer simultaneously creates life and biology in a program.
by Robert, 826CHI
A poem that explores the struggles of mine workers.
Armani, 826 New Orleans
A poem about the magic of bath time.
by Caleigh, 826LA
A letter offering a concise yet compelling list of all that awaits in LA.
by Caira N., Grade 5, 826NYC
A student lists all the reasons why her school is the best!
by Jeffrey, 826DC
In this "I Wish" poem, written in both Spanish and English, a student dreams of a more colorful world.
by Javier, 826DC
A student wishes for unexpected pops of color.
Christina L., Grade 4, 826 MSP
We are a reflection of the people we love and who love us.
by Gabriella Mcclellan, Grade 5, 826michigan
This sci-fi piece shows the importance of talking things out with friends.
by Natalia, 826CHI
A story told by her grandfather leads Betty on a journey where fiction and reality collide.
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 Juna, 826michigan
A poem about taking the world in—and letting go.
by Talia, 826NYC
A creative field guide to Sea Lettuce.
by Rechab T., 826DC
This poem takes a surreal approach to describing a scene.
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 Aanikaa Ramesh, Grade 5, Camas, WA
Embrace your inner power!
by Kevin, 826LA
A letter from the author to the author on appreciating both the unconventional and conventional parts of oneself.
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 Donald W., Grade 4, 826michigan
A student describes their very helpful imaginary friend.
by Luana Anticona Nolasco, age 10, 826 Valencia
An eerie encounter with a shapeshifter after a grocery run.
Dylan Sanderson, Grade 5, 826NYC
A student dreams of the most joyful place in the world--somewhere with their family and money!
by Aanya K., Grade 3, 826 LA
In this set of diary entries, a student explores what makes a villain.
Nur Schlenker, age 10, 826 Valencia
Experience the sights and sounds of Halloween in this vivid poem.
by Alfredo Enriquez-Aguilar, 826 Valencia
Have you ever wanted to care for a dragon? This poem teaches you how.
by Aiden Spence, Grade 3, 826NYC
This poem describes all of the reasons why green is the best color.
by Camila R.G., Grade 4, 826LA
In this letter, a student asks the next U.S. President to help the homeless.
by Jalen, 826NYC
A series of superhero haiku inspired by engineering secret lairs.
Elsie, 826 New Orleans
In this poem, a student celebrates individuality.
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 Brooklyn., Grade 3, 826michigan
A student's reflects on all the love in her life in hopes of inspiring others.
by Ahlaam, Grade 4, 826 MSP
Burglars beware. . . a nine-year-old witch fights crime!
by Carolyn Danielle Wong, Age 9, 826 Valencia
In this poem, the writer showcases self-love and joy.
Rachel G., Grade 5, 826NYC
A young writer teaches us the value of learning about different cultures.
by Jekaya, 826 Boston
A student reflects on what it takes to stand up to bullies and speak up for others.
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 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.
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