Grades 4–5
Fantasy/SciFi, NarrativeWritingLilliana Maria (L.M.) is 11 years old and lives in Chicago. Lilliana likes to dance to her favorite band XO-IQ and is really good at writing fictional stories. She wishes to be president of the world! If she could have any superpower, it would be ice powers, flying, shooting fireballs out of her hands, and laser fingers. When Lilliana grows up, she wants to be President of the World or The Best Movie Director for Awesome Fantasy ADVENTURES!
We open our a story on the night before Halloween, in a cemetery in New York City where there was once a ghost named Annabeth. Annabeth had long, dark brown hair and wore an ankle-length white sleeping gown that went down to her toes. Annabeth was planning on leaving her grave on Halloween night, because that is the only time she could leave. Her plan was to find a house where there were children trick-or-treating. And once she found her victim, she would take him to be her “forever friend.”
When midnight struck, she went to all of the different ghosts to brag about her plan. Every year, the ghosts have parties to celebrate their freedom. Ghosts were listening to a song called “We’re Free.” They were doing the monster shuffle, eating chicken, ribs, deer, and more meat, and drinking ectoplasm. But really Annabeth didn’t celebrate, mostly because she was excited, and because she wanted to get some sleep to save her energy for later. All the ghosts were bugging her about joining, so she stood to eat and then went to back sleep.
The rest of the ghosts were watching “funny movies,” but funny movies for them were horror movies. Three o’clock in the morning came, and Annabeth woke up because the ghosts were laughing so loud. In the movie, a woman went into her closet because she was woken up by a loud thud noise. When she opened the closet doors, a horrible monster snatched her into another dimension. The ghosts found that very funny. Annabeth didn’t like watching horror movies. Usually, Annabeth read some books when she was bored. When she could go out of the cemetery, she wanted to get a tablet like a Kindle Fire to read more books. Her superpower was to read five books in one day. She could also make cartoons come to life.
The ghosts finished their movie at 3:45 a.m., and they all decided to PARTY! Annabeth made The Amazing World of Darwin come to life, because the ghosts begged her so they could party with the cartoons.
At 4:30 a.m., they all crashed out: ghosts on tables, in trees, and on the floor with chicken bones coming out of their mouths, sleeping.
When they were sleeping, Annabeth left the cemetery. She was not allowed, but what did she care? She was already dead. So she went to the park. She thought about why she couldn’t make friends easily. So she decided to change herself—not her look, but her image.
When she came back to the cemetery, the ghosts were screaming and saying, “No NOOOOOO!” They were running and flying around like they’d seen a death-eating ghost.
Annabeth said, “What’s wrong?” They did see a death-eating ghost. Mael-Paexinus was his nickname. Every 50 years Mael-Paexinus would awaken and he would be super duper hungry.
His power was fire, and he was ENORMOUS! He would steal ghosts to store in a dark pit. Annabeth and the rest of the ghosts were flipping out. Mael-Paexinus was from the 1800s, and he had a brown hat, brown leather jacket, and dark black pants. He had long black hair to his shoulders and a scary, dirty face. So of course they were scared of him. But Annabeth left because she wasn’t going to let an old ghost get in the way of her big plans.
Annabeth went out of the cemetery and into the park. She met a girl named Kiana Nutty Nutty Pecan. Kiana had brown hair and wore it to the side in a ponytail.
When they saw each other, they introduced themselves and Annabeth sighed, “I have a hard time making friends.”
Kiana sniffled, “Me too. People think I’m weird because I read Captain Monsterpants even though it’s awesome!” That made them realize they weren’t so different.
Annabeth laughed, “That seems pretty cool.”
They talked for hours (OK, an hour), and became friends. Annabeth learned that you don’t need to take children to be your friends. You have to make your own friends. Annabeth didn’t know why Kiana was in the park at 4:30 a.m., and Kiana didn’t say.
So Annabeth asked, “Why are you in the park at 4:30 in the morning?”
Kiana said, “Me and my mom had a huge fight on what to eat for dinner, so I stomped all the way to my room, locked my bedroom door, thought about it, and ran away.”
At 5:00 a.m., Annabeth told Kiana about the death-eating ghost. They headed back to the cemetery where Mael-Paexinus was destroying everything.
Kiana said fearfully, “OK, bye!” but Annabeth grabbed her arm and pulled her back. They stepped up to Mael-Paexinus and she shouted, “Stop destroying everything!”
He replied, like a smarty pants, “What is it to you?”
Annabeth said, “This is my home. Why do you have to be so angry?”
Mael-Paexinus said, “Because I’m Mael-Paexinus!”
Annabeth grabbed Kiana’s hand. She said to Kiana, “The power of friendship can break him!”
Annabeth knew that Mael-Paexinus hated friendships. Many ghosts tried to stop him, but when they did Mael-Paexinus quickly got rid of them. Annabeth and Kiana grabbed each other’s hands, so did the rest of the ghosts, and they chanted, “FRIENDS FOREVER FRIENDS FOREVER FRIENDS FOREVER!” That broke him.
Mael-Paexinus screamed, “NNNNNNNNNNOOOOOOOOOO!” and his eyes lit up, and so did his mouth. Mael-Paexinus quickly shattered into pieces like broken glass.
After that, the sun came up. Everyone was safe, and they cleaned up everything and stopped the fires. Annabeth told Kiana to go back home to her mom and apologize, and told her, “Next time dinner comes, you go buy Mickey Monald’s.”
When Kiana got back to her house, there were police cars everywhere. Kiana tapped on her mom’s shoulder. Kiana’s mom turned around, grabbed and hugged her, and started crying. So did Kiana. Kiana told her mom she met a ghost who had to go back to the cemetery. Of course, Kiana’s mom didn’t believe her, but she thought it was cute Kiana had imaginary friends, so she let her go back.
Annabeth never took another child again.
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This collection of zany, adventurous monster tales—penned by fourth and fifth grade students from Brentano Math & Science Academy in Chicago—invites you to walk within dark tunnels, through explosive science labs, and into strange forests to explore beastly worlds unknown. Each piece provokes, tantalizes, and surprises you... perhaps even makes you gasp—or shout—OMG! An 826CHI Young Authors' Book Project.
by Girod, 826 New Orleans
This celebratory poem uses similes to list all of the things the writer loves about themself.
by Giannyl Guerrero Cabral, 826 Boston
A practical list of ways anyone can stop bullying.
by Aiden Spence, Grade 3, 826NYC
This poem describes all of the reasons why green is the best color.
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 Emmanuel, 826DC
A personal narrative about a tender first sighting between brothers on a family trip to El Salvador.
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 Smila H., Age 10, 826LA
A powerful acrostic poem that shares an encouraging message.
by Dahlia-Rose, 826NYC
A field guide to Queen Anne’s Lace and a day in the life from a flower’s perspective.
by Meredith, 826michigan
A poem about globe-sized dreams.
by Ayelen C., Age 9, 826 Valencia
A student's sweet letter to their grandmother.
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 Liliana, 826DC
This student’s heartbreaking personal narrative describes what it can feel like to have your parents get divorced.
Elsie, 826 New Orleans
In this poem, a student celebrates individuality.
by Erriyanna, 826michigan
An epic poem about a younger sister. English and Spanish versions included.
by Joshua, 826CHI
Alien monsters and a young boy forge a friendship over a dramatic series of events.
by Ivan Newton Ponce, 826 Valencia
This poem uses sensory details to describe the writer's favorite places.
by Dy’Stonie V., Grade 5, 826 New Orleans
A poem that highlights the bond between grandparent, grandchild, and a sweet perfume.
Perla Ortega, Age 9, 826 Valencia
A poet sweetly appreciates a teacher for her kindness.
by Keila, 826michigan
An "I A From" poem. English and Spanish versions included.
by Lyric White, age 10, 826 Valencia
A magical mountain quest to save a mermaid.
by Caira N., Grade 5, 826NYC
A student lists all the reasons why her school is the best!
Nasir Farmer, Age 8, 826 Boston
Our protagonist attempts to evade a boogieman invasion.
by Kevin J. Ortiz, 826DC
A personal narrative about a trip to Ocean City, a lonely puppy, and sharing our fears with others.
by Olivia, 826NYC
An elegy for corn.
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 Jeffrey, 826DC
In this "I Wish" poem, written in both Spanish and English, a student dreams of a more colorful world.
by Kevin, 826LA
A letter from the author to the author on appreciating both the unconventional and conventional parts of oneself.
by Penelope, 826 Valencia
In this superhero story, Super Duper Scarlet must save San Fran Superland from Doctor Nefario!
Roberto Misael Aguilera, Age 9, 826 Valencia
Discover the fearful T-Rex Koala--koala by day, monster by night!
by Walter Linares, Age 11, 826 Valencia
The secrets of a spy in a red venom suit unfold...
by Naomi, 826michigan
A (mostly) love letter to a kiwi with delicious imagery.
by Salimatou, 826NYC
Together, a princess with superpowers and an orphan-turned-sidekick must save the king and queen of kingdom Atarica!
by Damian A., Grade 4, 826CHI
A student describes their bear-y fun imaginary friend.
by Maia Sears, 826michigan
This student describes exciting things the future will bring, like elevators that can reach space!
by Quinn, 826CHI
A piece that explores the dynamic nature of love and might just become your next Valentine's Day card.
by Simone, 826michigan
A poem about appreciating trees and why we should study them.
by Talia, 826NYC
A creative field guide to Sea Lettuce.
by K.M., 826DC
In this piece, a student describes the challenges of being a superhero and reflects on their power to shine.
by Marisa, 826NYC
A student reports on Islamophobia, using research and interviews to explore this mindset and its damaging repercussions.
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 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 Marisol, 826michigan
A young girl's poem about all the life she sees in her yard. English and Spanish versions included.
by Alan, 826DC
This poem describes the thoughts of hunger.
by Reyes, 826NYC
A creative field guide to the eastern gray squirrel.
by Zari P., Grade 4, 826DC
A playful "I am" poem that explores what's possible.
by Alexa, 826michigan
A poem that tastes like pepperoni pizza.
by Rechab T., 826DC
This poem takes a surreal approach to describing a scene.
by Marvin, Grade 5, 826CHI
A troubled ghost haunts a boy’s dreams.
Raven, 826 New Orleans
You guessed it—an ode to cookies.
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 Ava Tassinari, 826 Boston
A story about a bullying incident on the school bus.
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 Marie, 826CHI
A monkey named Chesley saves the animals of the forest from an evil Master!
Dominick Contreras Rodriguez, age 9, 826 Valencia
A student traces his identity through food and family.
by Athena, 826NYC
In this poem, a student explores both the seen and unseen powers of a superhero.
by Norah, Grade 5, 826DC
A student describes her mystical worm imaginary friend.
by Violeta, 826CHI
A monster's routine trip for tuna sandwich ingredients results in a broken arm!
by Madison, 826 New Orleans
This poem leaves the reader descriptive clues to help them guess the mystery food.
by Camila R.G., Grade 4, 826LA
In this letter, a student asks the next U.S. President to help the homeless.
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 Lina, 826 Valencia
A mischievous recipe calling for 3 tablespoons of candy, 10 gallons of not laughing, and 100 gallons of mother.
by Ramatoulie, 826DC
A student shares memories of transitioning from Gambia to a new home in the United States, complete with a snowy encounter.
Noah Jean Marie, Age 9, 826NYC
A poet captures the freedom of dancing.
by Sumaya, 826 MSP
This poem uses analogies to describe different objects the writer would like to be.
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 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 Kaitlyn, 826NYC
A creation myth reimagined in a poem.
by Claire, 826CHI
A poem about “unfinding” what was known and learning to explore.
by Juna, 826michigan
A poem about taking the world in—and letting go.
by Jaceon B., Grade 4, 826 New Orleans
A student describes their butter covered imaginary friend.
by Lux, 826NYC
A student reflects on their experiences with bullying and how they’ll take a stand in the future.
by Yarely, 826michigan
A poem about grandma. English and Spanish versions included.
by Alfredo Enriquez-Aguilar, 826 Valencia
Have you ever wanted to care for a dragon? This poem teaches you how.
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 Mohamed F., 826 MSP
This poem uses descriptive language to leave the reader clues about the animal it is depicting.
by Luana Anticona Nolasco, age 10, 826 Valencia
An eerie encounter with a shapeshifter after a grocery run.
by Maria, 826 Valencia
This student gives thanks to ordinary objects in an ode.
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 Felix E., 826 Valencia
A student's fear is conquered after a startling discovery.
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 Winta, 826DC
A concise but essential list of survival tips in the event of a sweet disaster.
by Ciaran, 826NYC
A creative field guide to a Mourning Cloak butterfly who lives in New York City.
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 Javier, 826DC
A student wishes for unexpected pops of color.
by Hope L.C., Age 10, 826DC
A silly story about dragon fruits -- no wait, fruit dragons!
by Elena Chambers, 826michigan
Thinking of Cherry Coke lip gloss, community, and dancing, this narrator celebrates life from their front stoop.
by Kayamaghi, 826NYC
A lab experiment goes wrong and a humble scientist must save Superhero Land from a super speedy villain!
by Yasmeen Whitney, Age 9, 826 Valencia
This poem declares a student's love for snow globes!
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 Ehmely, 826CHI
A crucial missive for anyone playing a high-stakes game of "Hide and Seek".
by Kelis, 826NYC
On the planet Mars, Zoe must defeat the supervillain Zygorn to avenge her family! Wait—was it all a dream?
by Marisa, 826michigan
A series of tweets about an adventurous cat named Marcus. #SuperCat #Meow
by Joseline, 826DC
A personal narrative about a teensie, tiny bit of jealousy for a new baby sister turning into love.
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 Christian, 826 New Orleans
This poem uses personification to introduce the audience to an olive and its cousin, Jeff.
by Antoni L., 826DC
In this poem, the author discusses their origins through metaphor.
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 Kayla, 826LA
This author reflects on an act of kindness to someone in need.
Nur Schlenker, Age 10, 826 Valencia
A student paints two images, one of Halloween night, and the second of home.
by Natalia, 826CHI
A story told by her grandfather leads Betty on a journey where fiction and reality collide.
by Kathryn, 826NYC
A very scientific origin poem about french fries, starting with an argument between the sun and the moon.
by Jekaya, 826 Boston
A student reflects on what it takes to stand up to bullies and speak up for others.
by Hanako M., Age 10, 826michigan
A "sense"-sational poem about the flowers in their yard.
by Jack, Grade 5, 826 New Orleans
In this transcript, a student shares three clear actions to stand up to bullies.
Raquel Campos, Age 10, 826 Valencia
Three friends, inspired by a stream of butterflies, bake a beautiful cake.
by Pearl L., Age 10, 826DC
A story about Rory the dragon, the defender of all genders.
by Angel Flores Vazquez, 826 Valencia
This poem illustrates the effectiveness of descriptive language.
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 Donald W., Grade 4, 826michigan
A student describes their very helpful imaginary friend.
by Fatima, 826michigan
A list poem about a beautiful room and a beautiful family in both English and Spanish.
by Camilla S.R., Grade 5, 826 Valencia
A student describes her imaginary friend from Funky Town.
Dylan Sanderson, Grade 5, 826NYC
A student dreams of the most joyful place in the world--somewhere with their family and money!
by Emma D., Grade 4, 826LA
A plea to the next President to provide better access to mental health treatment for youth.
Vivien Norton, Age 12, 826michigan
A poet explores their love for writing with their friend.
by Elaine, 826 Boston
A diary entry reflecting on a secret mission to Mars!
by Jalen, 826NYC
A series of superhero haiku inspired by engineering secret lairs.
by Salma, Grade 5, 826 Boston
A student reminds herself of the many ways she shines
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 Kenneth Vasquez, Age 10, 826 Valencia
A student reflects on their love of soccer.
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 Charm R., Grade 5, 826 New Orleans
This poem tells the story of a courageous little bird.
by Natalie, 826 Valencia
A recipe for how to create a legendary rapper.
by Jonathan Rivera Navarro, 826 Valencia
This poem celebrates and mourns a taco.
by Eric, 826CHI
This student recounts a fictional chat with George Washington about the American Revolution over a meal.
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 Oscar, 826CHI
The story of a lifetime—literally.
by Robert, 826CHI
A poem that explores the struggles of mine workers.
by Daphne, 826 Valencia
A girl named Chloe embarks on a heroic mission after discovering a new super-identity: Fluffy Justice!
by Will, 826michigan
A student imagines life in the future.
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 Victor, 826 Valencia
An ode to Beans, Rice, and Chicken.
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 Abdinasir, 826 MSP
This poem shares what someone might experience on Halloween.
by Victor, 826 Valencia
This student gives thanks to ordinary objects in an ode.
by Jesús, 826 Valencia
In this superhero story, Spyman is on an important mission—saving donuts from becoming bagels!
Ren, 826 New Orleans
In this poem, a student explores what summer means to them.
by Athena, 826NYC
An "I Am From" superhero persona poem.
by Chelsea, 826NYC
An academically-inclined student passes on their favorite tips for having fun before fifth grade starts.
by Luis Cornejo, age 9, 826 Valencia
A student recalls the first time they saw a ghost.
by Milo, 826NYC
A creative origin story in which a programmer simultaneously creates life and biology in a program.
by Uma, 826NYC
A witty set of foolproof pickup lines.
by Robert, 826CHI
A collection of haikus spanning books and cosmology.
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 Charlie, 826michigan
A very scientific retelling of why dinosaurs went extinct.
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