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