Grades 4–5
Fantasy/SciFi, Informational, NarrativeWritingBenny was born in the Dominican Republic, and he is really great at sports (especially baseball). Benny’s dad’s nickname is “Pava,” and since “ita” means “smaller” in Spanish, Benny’s nickname is “Pavita.” That’s basically all about Benny Martinez.
10-8-14
Hello, I’m Agent Smitty from NASA. I was sent to take over Mars for human habitation. I flew to Mars in a red, white, and blue spaceship. When I arrived, I noticed the planet was so dry and red. I thought, “Now, let’s get down to business.”
I was wandering around Mars, looking for signs of life, when i saw something really creepy.
I thought I was crazy. It was an alien! I was disgusted. The alien was hideous. It was green, and it had six legs and four arms.
I got over myself and went up to the alien. I cried, “I come in peace, do not attack!”
The alien responded, “Ni glok ka tan tan tall,” which means, “Stay and we won’t attack.”
I challenged the alien to a game of footfield for ownership of mars. Footfield is a game I made up because, as a kid, I couldn’t decide between my favorite sports (football and baseball), so I combined them.
Here are the rules:
To get set for the game, the alien made other aliens by morphing into eight more aliens. It was eight aliens against my unformed squad. I had to find a good squad. I abducted athletes and took them into space to form a dream team:
A-Rod, David Ortiz, Tom Brady, Dez Bryant, AJ Green, Hanley Ramirez, Pablo Sandoval, Malcolm Butler and their coach (me!!). We called ourselves the Dominican Bull Sharks. Out uniforms were red, white, and blue, the colors of the Dominican flag.
10-9-14
Game day. I knew that we would win and that they would lose, because I invented this game, and I’ve been playing it my whole life.
During the game, my teammate AJ Green made the aliens’ defense look like fools. He made them fall by juking them. Everyone who was there witnessed greatness. My team won by twenty-four points! I was ecstatic.
3-31-25
I have been working in space for the past ten years and I am making plans to finish taking over Mars. All of the winning footfield players will get their own land. We must build human shelters. The aliens will live among us.
We aren’t great friends with the aliens, but we do still get together for a footfield game every two months.
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Inspired by Jeff Kinney’s Diary of a Wimpy Kid series, and with a foreword by the author, students from 826 Boston's after-school program get creative with this collection of diary entries from across time and space. Each entry is written and illustrated with student comics, and each copy of the book comes with a free temporary tattoo (supplies are limited!).
by Alfredo Enriquez-Aguilar, 826 Valencia
Have you ever wanted to care for a dragon? This poem teaches you how.
by Jekaya, 826 Boston
A student reflects on what it takes to stand up to bullies and speak up for others.
Ren, 826 New Orleans
In this poem, a student explores what summer means to them.
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 Uma, 826NYC
A witty set of foolproof pickup lines.
by Maia Sears, 826michigan
This student describes exciting things the future will bring, like elevators that can reach space!
by Luis Cornejo, age 9, 826 Valencia
A student recalls the first time they saw a ghost.
by K.M., 826DC
In this piece, a student describes the challenges of being a superhero and reflects on their power to shine.
by Oscar, 826CHI
The story of a lifetime—literally.
Nasir Farmer, Age 8, 826 Boston
Our protagonist attempts to evade a boogieman invasion.
by Ayelen C., Age 9, 826 Valencia
A student's sweet letter to their grandmother.
by Damian A., Grade 4, 826CHI
A student describes their bear-y fun imaginary friend.
by Kaitlyn, 826NYC
A creation myth reimagined in a poem.
by Keila, 826michigan
An "I A From" poem. English and Spanish versions included.
by Charm R., Grade 5, 826 New Orleans
This poem tells the story of a courageous little bird.
by Marvin, Grade 5, 826CHI
A troubled ghost haunts a boy’s dreams.
Roberto Misael Aguilera, Age 9, 826 Valencia
Discover the fearful T-Rex Koala--koala by day, monster by night!
by Marie, 826CHI
A monkey named Chesley saves the animals of the forest from an evil Master!
by Ivan Newton Ponce, 826 Valencia
This poem uses sensory details to describe the writer's favorite places.
by Chelsea, 826NYC
An academically-inclined student passes on their favorite tips for having fun before fifth grade starts.
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 Madison, 826 New Orleans
This poem leaves the reader descriptive clues to help them guess the mystery food.
by Alan, 826DC
This poem describes the thoughts of hunger.
by Christian, 826 New Orleans
This poem uses personification to introduce the audience to an olive and its cousin, Jeff.
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.
Nur Schlenker, Age 10, 826 Valencia
A student paints two images, one of Halloween night, and the second of home.
by Norah, Grade 5, 826DC
A student describes her mystical worm imaginary friend.
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 Kayamaghi, 826NYC
A lab experiment goes wrong and a humble scientist must save Superhero Land from a super speedy villain!
by Camila R.G., Grade 4, 826LA
In this letter, a student asks the next U.S. President to help the homeless.
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 Victor, 826 Valencia
This student gives thanks to ordinary objects in an ode.
by Elaine, 826 Boston
A diary entry reflecting on a secret mission to Mars!
by Yarely, 826michigan
A poem about grandma. 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 Ehmely, 826CHI
A crucial missive for anyone playing a high-stakes game of "Hide and Seek".
Elsie, 826 New Orleans
In this poem, a student celebrates individuality.
by Victor, 826 Valencia
An ode to Beans, Rice, and Chicken.
by Jonathan Rivera Navarro, 826 Valencia
This poem celebrates and mourns a taco.
by Kevin J. Ortiz, 826DC
A personal narrative about a trip to Ocean City, a lonely puppy, and sharing our fears with others.
by Liliana, 826DC
This student’s heartbreaking personal narrative describes what it can feel like to have your parents get divorced.
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 Dahlia-Rose, 826NYC
A field guide to Queen Anne’s Lace and a day in the life from a flower’s perspective.
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 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 Erriyanna, 826michigan
An epic poem about a younger sister. English and Spanish versions included.
by Sumaya, 826 MSP
This poem uses analogies to describe different objects the writer would like to be.
by Eric, 826CHI
This student recounts a fictional chat with George Washington about the American Revolution over a meal.
by Girod, 826 New Orleans
This celebratory poem uses similes to list all of the things the writer loves about themself.
by Kevin, 826LA
A letter from the author to the author on appreciating both the unconventional and conventional parts of oneself.
by Winta, 826DC
A concise but essential list of survival tips in the event of a sweet disaster.
by Reyes, 826NYC
A creative field guide to the eastern gray squirrel.
by Lina, 826 Valencia
A mischievous recipe calling for 3 tablespoons of candy, 10 gallons of not laughing, and 100 gallons of mother.
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 Donald W., Grade 4, 826michigan
A student describes their very helpful imaginary friend.
by Marisol, 826michigan
A young girl's poem about all the life she sees in her yard. English and Spanish versions included.
Raven, 826 New Orleans
You guessed it—an ode to cookies.
by Fatima, 826michigan
A list poem about a beautiful room and a beautiful family in both English and Spanish.
by Caira N., Grade 5, 826NYC
A student lists all the reasons why her school is the best!
by Walter Linares, Age 11, 826 Valencia
The secrets of a spy in a red venom suit unfold...
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 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 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 Penelope, 826 Valencia
In this superhero story, Super Duper Scarlet must save San Fran Superland from Doctor Nefario!
by Juna, 826michigan
A poem about taking the world in—and letting go.
by Luana Anticona Nolasco, age 10, 826 Valencia
An eerie encounter with a shapeshifter after a grocery run.
by Javier, 826DC
A student wishes for unexpected pops of color.
by Aiden Spence, Grade 3, 826NYC
This poem describes all of the reasons why green is the best color.
by Joseline, 826DC
A personal narrative about a teensie, tiny bit of jealousy for a new baby sister turning into love.
by Antoni L., 826DC
In this poem, the author discusses their origins through metaphor.
by Giannyl Guerrero Cabral, 826 Boston
A practical list of ways anyone can stop bullying.
by Abdinasir, 826 MSP
This poem shares what someone might experience on Halloween.
by Felix E., 826 Valencia
A student's fear is conquered after a startling discovery.
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 Claire, 826CHI
A poem about “unfinding” what was known and learning to explore.
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 Faisa, age 9, 826 MSP
This poem writes from the perspective of a Prairie Shooting Star flower, detailing a day in its life.
by Salma, Grade 5, 826 Boston
A student reminds herself of the many ways she shines
by Charlie, 826michigan
A very scientific retelling of why dinosaurs went extinct.
by Kelis, 826NYC
On the planet Mars, Zoe must defeat the supervillain Zygorn to avenge her family! Wait—was it all a dream?
by Elian de Leon, 826NYC
A poem that focuses on color and translates it into sensory details.
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 Kathryn, 826NYC
A very scientific origin poem about french fries, starting with an argument between the sun and the moon.
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 Meredith, 826michigan
A poem about globe-sized dreams.
by Jack, Grade 5, 826 New Orleans
In this transcript, a student shares three clear actions to stand up to bullies.
by Milo, 826NYC
A creative origin story in which a programmer simultaneously creates life and biology in a program.
by Lux, 826NYC
A student reflects on their experiences with bullying and how they’ll take a stand in the future.
Dominick Contreras Rodriguez, age 9, 826 Valencia
A student traces his identity through food and family.
by Joshua, 826CHI
Alien monsters and a young boy forge a friendship over a dramatic series of events.
by Simone, 826michigan
A poem about appreciating trees and why we should study them.
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.
Perla Ortega, Age 9, 826 Valencia
A poet sweetly appreciates a teacher for her kindness.
by Natalie, 826 Valencia
A recipe for how to create a legendary rapper.
by Marisa, 826michigan
A series of tweets about an adventurous cat named Marcus. #SuperCat #Meow
by Pearl L., Age 10, 826DC
A story about Rory the dragon, the defender of all genders.
by Naomi, 826michigan
A (mostly) love letter to a kiwi with delicious imagery.
by Robert, 826CHI
A collection of haikus spanning books and cosmology.
by Quinn, 826CHI
A piece that explores the dynamic nature of love and might just become your next Valentine's Day card.
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 Ava Tassinari, 826 Boston
A story about a bullying incident on the school bus.
by Marco, 826LA
A screenplay about a plane crash and an epic journey to Mexico, with a twist!
by Ximena Torres, Age 9, 826 Valencia
A poem about the lessons your family can teach you.
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 Olivia, 826NYC
An elegy for corn.
by Angel Flores Vazquez, 826 Valencia
This poem illustrates the effectiveness of descriptive language.
by Salimatou, 826NYC
Together, a princess with superpowers and an orphan-turned-sidekick must save the king and queen of kingdom Atarica!
by Hope L.C., Age 10, 826DC
A silly story about dragon fruits -- no wait, fruit dragons!
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 Alexa, 826michigan
A poem that tastes like pepperoni pizza.
by Athena, 826NYC
In this poem, a student explores both the seen and unseen powers of a 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 Smila H., Age 10, 826LA
A powerful acrostic poem that shares an encouraging message.
by Robert, 826CHI
A poem that explores the struggles of mine workers.
by Talia, 826NYC
A creative field guide to Sea Lettuce.
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 Will, 826michigan
A student imagines life in the future.
by Maria, 826 Valencia
This student gives thanks to ordinary objects in an ode.
by Dy’Stonie V., Grade 5, 826 New Orleans
A poem that highlights the bond between grandparent, grandchild, and a sweet perfume.
by Jeffrey, 826DC
In this "I Wish" poem, written in both Spanish and English, a student dreams of a more colorful world.
by Violeta, 826CHI
A monster's routine trip for tuna sandwich ingredients results in a broken arm!
by Jalen, 826NYC
A series of superhero haiku inspired by engineering secret lairs.
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 Emmanuel, 826DC
A personal narrative about a tender first sighting between brothers on a family trip to El Salvador.
by Daphne, 826 Valencia
A girl named Chloe embarks on a heroic mission after discovering a new super-identity: Fluffy Justice!
by Kenneth Vasquez, Age 10, 826 Valencia
A student reflects on their love of soccer.
by Natalia, 826CHI
A story told by her grandfather leads Betty on a journey where fiction and reality collide.
by Kayla, 826LA
This author reflects on an act of kindness to someone in need.
by Jaceon B., Grade 4, 826 New Orleans
A student describes their butter covered imaginary friend.
by Mohamed F., 826 MSP
This poem uses descriptive language to leave the reader clues about the animal it is depicting.
by Hanako M., Age 10, 826michigan
A "sense"-sational poem about the flowers in their yard.
by Ciaran, 826NYC
A creative field guide to a Mourning Cloak butterfly who lives in New York City.
by Athena, 826NYC
An "I Am From" superhero persona poem.
by Camilla S.R., Grade 5, 826 Valencia
A student describes her imaginary friend from Funky Town.
by Rechab T., 826DC
This poem takes a surreal approach to describing a scene.
by Marisa, 826NYC
A student reports on Islamophobia, using research and interviews to explore this mindset and its damaging repercussions.
by Lyric White, age 10, 826 Valencia
A magical mountain quest to save a mermaid.
by Emma D., Grade 4, 826LA
A plea to the next President to provide better access to mental health treatment for youth.
by Ramatoulie, 826DC
A student shares memories of transitioning from Gambia to a new home in the United States, complete with a snowy encounter.
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