Grade 12
Fantasy/SciFiWritingTina Nguyen is a seventeen-year-old from Dorchester, Massachusetts, who attends the John D. O’Bryant High School. Her main interests consist of social and climate justice, biology, the arts, and gardening. She aspires to continue her journey as a climate justice activist in her future professional life and wants to build a more equitable and green society and system for Massachusetts. She also hopes to pursue a side career of publishing creative writing pieces, and is currently involved in numerous literature clubs and organizations.
Pronouns: They/Them and She/Her (interchangeably)
Wentworth is an endearing character, resembling a short, chubby shark standing on shark-like legs with big, wide eyes and an “I ❤️ Tomatoes” T-shirt. Despite his intimidating appearance, he exudes childlike innocence and kindness, always eager to share and promote love and kindness. He’s a bit clueless about what’s happening most of the time, but makes up for it with his generous spirit and simple wisdom. Wentworth enjoys blowing bubbles, riding bicycles, and attempting to cook, although he’s a bit clumsy in the kitchen. Despite his habit of talking with his mouth open and occasionally spitting food, he’s quick to apologize and clean up. He lives in a fish tank but loves venturing onto land for activities like grocery shopping and biking. Wentworth’s special talents include breathing both underwater and on land, communicating with sea life and humans alike, and performing impressive acrobatics, like backflips and cartwheels. We met during a moment of vulnerability, when he jumped out of his tank to offer me companionship and advice during a rough patch. Now, we enjoy baking tomato-based recipes, cycling adventures, evening walks, and the occasional journaling session together. Wentworth has become not just a friend, but a cherished companion who brings joy and laughter into my life.
ABOUT THE PROJECT
With Paramount Pictures’ latest film IF as inspiration, children around the nation put pens to paper to bring their imaginary friends to life through writing. Together, 826 and Paramount Pictures published three books of youth writing inspired by the upcoming film, starring John Krasinski, Ryan Reynolds, Cailey Fleming, Louis Gossett Jr., Jon Stewart, Awkwafina, Maya Rudolph, and Steve Carell.
See the lesson that inspired the writing here. Learn more about the project here.
Lukoiy, Grade 12, Woodburn, Oregon
A young student channels the voices of the people that are voiceless through the ringing music of poetry.
Yamilet J., 826LA
A student reflects on the fear and wonder of becoming a mother.
by Maria, Grade 12, 826 Boston
In this public narrative, a student makes the case for creating community change by building youth centers in her neighborhood.
by Steysi Hailee, 826LA
A student reflects on a small moment and single sacrifice that transformed her outlook on giving.
by Melody Marcano, 826 Boston
In this poem, a student reflects on their roots and their desire to grow.
by Alphonsine M., 826LA
A student reflects on the journey and struggle of growing in the face of adversity.
by Jesus C., Grade 12, 826LA
A poet identifies with a trapped ocelot at the zoo.
by Timothy T., Age 17, 826 Valencia
A student tells the story of how his family has influenced his life.
by Salma Khalif, 826 MSP
A powerful poem that lifts up Black women.
by Jordan, 826 New Orleans
Crawfish, crayfish, or mudbugs. Whatever you call them, the writer of this poem doesn't like them.
by Terry Velasquez, Grade 12, The Bronx, NY
In this letter from the Essential Words lesson, a student shares gratitude for the dedication of nurses and gives “credit where credit is due.”
by Jana C., 826LA
A celebration of self and exploration of core values.
Cate H, Grade 12, 826CHI
A poet sets the stage to showcase her reflections on being trans.
by Kayla, 826 Boston
This poem offers a very-real answer to "What do you want to be when you grow up?"
by Daniela Martinez, Grade 12, 826 Boston
A poem exploring an electric, freeing moment shared on the dance floor.
by Jahruwach Hamilton, Grade 10, 826NYC
In this rousing poem, a student asserts her strength and worth as a woman.
by Jennifer Alcocer, The 826 Dallas Project
This personal narrative addresses the struggles of students graduating high school during the pandemic.
by Brandon R., 826LA
A student recounts the epic highs and lows of high school track and cross country.
by Isaiah, 826 New Orleans
This student reveals the mysterious origin story of the king cake. Hint: it includes Big Freedia, DJ Chicken Wing, and a massive party.
by Kayla Wayne, Grade 11, 826NYC
In this poem, a student reflects on their first encounter with forced assimilation.
by Earl Williams Jr., The 826 Dallas Project
A powerful poetic piece about the experience of being Black in America.
by Jizelle Villegas, Grade 12, 826 Dallas Project
The stunning and vulnerable poem processes feelings of loss, grief, and hope for the future.
by Cristina, 826CHI
A student recounts separation with a beloved friend through a nostalgic lens.
by Lukoiy, Grade 12, Woodburn, OR
A poet speaks out as a voice for change and all those who cannot speak.
by Helen, Grade 12, 826 MSP
In this letter from the Essential Words lesson, a senior at South High School in Minneapolis offers words of support to healthcare workers across the country, including her own mom.
by Janeth GM, Grade 12, Woodburn, Oregon
This touching poem honors the author’s personal superhero: her mother.
Talea W., Age 18, 826 Valencia
A poet imagines their identity and Blackness through the heat of summer.
by Alanis T., Age 17, 826 Boston
A student reflects on how her relationship's with her parents has influenced her life.
by Katya Torres, The 826 Dallas Project
This bilingual poem explores the harrowing story of a boy working while in school to save his mother.
by Julianna C. 826 Dallas Project
This narrative piece contemplates the struggle of immigrants during the pandemic.
by Leydi Di Villanueva, The 826 Dallas Project
This creative narrative imagines how the coronavirus views humanity during the pandemic.
by Camille, 826LA
A student finds her wings in unexpected places in this piece about the transition to college.
by Gisel J., 826LA
The power of public speaking shines through this student's memoir.
by Jarmani M., Age 18, 826 Boston
Jarmani reflects on the pain of being rejected from his top high school, but through that challenge, he finds motivation. He grows more focused, disciplined, and driven to succeed in all areas.
by Lisbeth M.F., 826NYC
A story about how Marcus becomes Marcela.
by Yojannie Pizarro, Age 17, 826 Boston
This poem explores the beauty of friendship.
by Kaleo V.C., Age 17, 826 Valencia
A student looks back on their first day of kindergarten and how they've changed.
by Sian Laing
When Instagram becomes an unsightly battlefield.
Antonia O., Age 17, 826LA
A young writer's ode to her mother's resilience and hard work.
Tariq C., Age 19, 826 Boston
A poet critiques the violent oppression of Africa and African people.
by Liana H., 826LA
The author of this piece shares her journey to feeling confident in her Salvadorean identity.
by Izzy T., 826 Valencia
A student reflects on memories of home and what binds her special community together.
by Ryan, Grade 12, 826 Boston
In this public narrative, a student illustrates the hardships his uncle has faced to argue for a path to citizenship.
by Lucas Hu, 826 Boston
A poem about staying true to yourself during a challenging transition
by Sarah X. Age 18, 826Boston
A rousing public narrative from an author coming to terms with their identity as a young Chinese American woman and what they represent: the community of Boston's Chinatown.
Virginia Walker, age 18, 826 Boston
A student writes to a grandfather she never met.
by Sarah X., Grade 12, 826 Boston
A student shares how they've uplifted their community.
by Henry F., Grade 12, 826CHI
In this poem, a student reflects on identity.
Annasian Walters, Grade 11-12, 826NYC
A student explores gratitude and love through sharing food.
by Karla Amayo, 826LA
This bilingual poem describes the happiness and comfort of visiting family in Mexico.
by Matthew Inoa, 826 NYC
In this letter from the Essential Words lesson, a student describes how essential workers are the pulse of New York, fueling the city’s hope.
by Soraya, 826NYC
This student’s powerful piece reveals the essence of racial injustice.
by Shayne Williams
Discover what one student experiences when they tuck their phone away for a whole day.
by Jesus Sanchez, The 826 Dallas Project
This creative short horror piece explores the mysteries and danger of a night in the woods.
by Fabian Gonzalez Rubio, Grade 12, Woodburn, Oregon
A baby Jesus doll comes to life in this whimsical story!
by Colin Y., Age 17, 826 Valencia
A student describes how volunteering saved him from his online prison.
by Nhu N., Grade 12, 826 Boston
A young writer reconciles their sexuality with the beliefs of their community.
by Abner L., 17, 826DC
Abner explores the meaning of his name through color, joy, strength, and heritage, connecting it to culture, family, and faith.
Rosman A., age 18, 826CHI
Smells swirl about a student walking around an ice cream shop.
by Sally Phan, 826 Boston
A memoir that questions the idea of home and how it changes with time.
by Jonas K., 826 National
A student explores the paradox of how technology is used amongst teenagers.
by Albin C., Age 18, 826 Boston
A student recalls how he was able to take charge and turn his life around.
by Vanessa Ramon-Ibarra, 826DC
Living in the digital world can create unwanted attachments, as one student laments.
by Karina Centeno, Grade 12, 826 Dallas Project
This poem takes an honest look at two sides of the writer's culture.
by Johnny Vasquez, 826 MSP
A family interview reveals a mother's painful past and shines a light on her persistence.
by Kailyn Espinosa, 826NYC
In this letter from the Essential Words lesson, a student shares how essential workers’ courage and compassion center her during these hectic times.
by Olivia H., 826CHI
A piece that explores the connection between stars, legacy, and Black resilience.
Kenya G., 17, 826LA
A poet relates her experience as a queer woman in the closet to a peacock in the zoo.
by Oriel, 826NYC
In this poem, an echoing question strikes a chord and reveals the tragic loss held within systemic injustice.
by Michaiah Anderson, The 826 Dallas Project
In this poem, a student describes their family origins with an intimate point of view
by Ryker, 826michigan
Liner notes that showcase the meaning and musicality of the Jimmy Ruffin song “What Becomes of the Brokenhearted.”
by Sylvia C., 826 Valencia
A poet demonstrates their devotion to love.
by Manuel C., 17, 826DC
Manuel sees his name as joyful and strong, linked to faith, fun, and his favorite characters, with two names that reflect who he is at home and at school.
by Jazlyn Moses, 826 National
One student explores their online persona and the lasting importance of conscientious social media practices.
by Mia Pereyra, 826 Boston
A powerful poem about taking pride in being bilingual.
by Franny, 826CHI
A student spins through space and a treasure trove of memories in this poem.
by Bianca Morcho, 826 MSP
A personal essay that explores the different shades of the Black Lives Matter movement.
by Denisse Reyes Gonzalez, Age 17, 826NYC
Using metaphors, this bilingual poem explores the idea of lost love.
Henry F., Grade 12, 826CHI
A trans student reflects on their desire to be male.
We are thrilled to have you as the newest member of our online community. Stay up-to-date on the the latest and most relevant resources, student publication opportunities, and what’s new with the 826 Digital community.
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