Faisa Yusuf is a sixth grader from Minneapolis, Minnesota. Faisa loves to read and eat spicy food. She also likes pastries with cinnamon. Her favorite subject at school is science. She finds space science very interesting. Faisa wants to be an ophthalmologist when she grows up.
Ava is a comfort fairy. She has long braided hair. She wears white-and-pink striped pants and small white shoes. She comforts me when I’m sad, scared, and nervous. She wears a short pink dress and two white bows on her braids. Ava has a bubbly personality. She has a really big sweet tooth and loves to play hide-and-seek. Ava has a habit of talking too fast and flapping her wings fast when she’s in panic mode. Ava lives in comfort everywhere on Earth. She can make anything float, fly, and read minds. Together, we like to read, draw, and play hide-and-seek.
I met Ava in kindergarten. She appeared with a giant cookie almost completely eaten during recess. She flew up to me and we had a long conversation. She then flew with me to class and we became friends. Ava’s favorite foods are pasta, lasagna, and all desserts and sweet things alike. Ava is fearless. She’d stay by my side no matter what until she couldn’t. And she would comfort me for hours. Ava wants me to be happy and calm. She also would love sweets, but I always come first. Only I can see Ava because she conceals herself with magic. Ava left me as I grew up to be another child’s comfort fairy.
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.
by Lina, 826 Valencia
A mischievous recipe calling for 3 tablespoons of candy, 10 gallons of not laughing, and 100 gallons of mother.
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 Destiny, 826NYC
In this poem, a student contrasts conflicting perspectives on the construction of the Dakota Access Pipeline.
by Elsy, 826LA
Song lyrics about memories of cake and pizza, friendship, and giving 1,000 opinions.
by Ari, 826CHI
In the Realm of Virtues, a search for attention and significance teaches these characters an important lesson about what it means to be human!
by Amaya, 826michigan
A letter devoted to a favorite fruit that’s sweet and sour just like this student’s favorite candy: Sour Patch Kids!
by Athena, 826NYC
In this poem, a student explores both the seen and unseen powers of a superhero.
by Natalie, 826 Valencia
A recipe for how to create a legendary rapper.
by Angelina Do, Grade 6, 826 Valencia
A poem about living in the space between two cultures.
by Smila H., Age 10, 826LA
A powerful acrostic poem that shares an encouraging message.
by Simone, 826michigan
A poem about appreciating trees and why we should study them.
by John, 826NYC
A creative commentary on food justice in which Digestive Man defends local farms from Corn Boy and the Factory Farmers!
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 Joseline, 826DC
A personal narrative about a teensie, tiny bit of jealousy for a new baby sister turning into love.
by Harrison, 826michigan
A recursive poem that helps students explore the potential connections between math fractals and verse.
by Kevin J. Ortiz, 826DC
A personal narrative about a trip to Ocean City, a lonely puppy, and sharing our fears with others.
by Janelle Suazo, age 12, 826 Valencia
A school dare gone horribly wrong!
by Luis, 826LA
This student writes a letter to a hero with a sweet double kick: Jackie Chan!
by Luis, 826LA
A rap song dedicated to the Marvel comic writer Stan Lee and his inspired creations like the Hulk, Deadpool, Iron Man, and The Fantastic Four.
Jaylin Guevarro, Grade 6, 826NYC
A poet admires their loved one through this warming ode.
by Marco, 826LA
A screenplay about a plane crash and an epic journey to Mexico, with a twist!
by Wayne Gillyard, 826 Valencia
This poem shares the writer's love of all things yellow.
by Satis, 826 Valencia
A student argues for the importance of transgender rights in response to current events.
by Chelsea, 826NYC
A creative field guide to Daddy Longlegs.
by Robert, 826CHI
A collection of haikus spanning books and cosmology.
by Andres Santisteban-Perez, age 12, 826 Valencia
When playing video games night turned into a nightmare.
by Elaine, 826 Boston
A diary entry reflecting on a secret mission to Mars!
by Kathryn, 826NYC
A very scientific origin poem about french fries, starting with an argument between the sun and the moon.
by Claire Leiva, Grade 6, 826michigan
A poem about the writer's favorite animal--corgis!
by Milo, 826NYC
A creative origin story in which a programmer simultaneously creates life and biology in a program.
by Mady, 826 Valencia
A student examines the mermaid industry today through a historical lens that begins in the late-nineteenth century, turning fantasy into a profession.
by Jalen, 826NYC
A series of superhero haiku inspired by engineering secret lairs.
by Jacore, 826 Valencia
An intriguing and educational essay discussing environmental consciousness and the devastating effects of global warming.
by Charlotte, 826CHI
A poem about spring!
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 826NYC students Ash Doliber, Sidney Edelson, Ella Holland, Mavis Lu, Justin Nemeroff, Bird Rzepniewski, and Isabella Wu
This collaborative poem explores the many sides and senses of laughter.
by Armaan, 826CHI
This author recounts the beginning of a family tradition: the best homemade sandwich ever!
by Christian, 826michigan
In this resolution inspired by the "Include Someone" lesson and Cartoon Network storyboard, we learn that sometimes the easiest way to make someone feel included is by lending a hand.
by Meredith, 826michigan
A poem about globe-sized dreams.
by Daphne, 826 Valencia
A girl named Chloe embarks on a heroic mission after discovering a new super-identity: Fluffy Justice!
by Valary K., Grade 6, 826 MSP
A story about a mysterious tunnel that leaves you on the edge of your seat!
by Isabella, 826CHI
A student describes a scrumptious five-course meal—everything except the vegetables, that is!
by Athena, 826NYC
An "I Am From" superhero persona poem.
by Emmanuel, 826DC
A personal narrative about a tender first sighting between brothers on a family trip to El Salvador.
A writer's fake news article about a miracle drug that can cure anything.
A writer's fake news article about a miracle drug that can cure anything.
by Juna, 826michigan
A poem about taking the world in—and letting go.
by Marisa, 826NYC
A student reports on Islamophobia, using research and interviews to explore this mindset and its damaging repercussions.
by Jesús, 826 Valencia
In this superhero story, Spyman is on an important mission—saving donuts from becoming bagels!
by Khloe Fewster, 826 Valencia
This poem uses repetition to give advice for when you're feeling unsure of yourself.
by Sophia, 826CHI
In this poem, a student makes some noise about resilience and beating the odds.
by Talia, 826NYC
A creative field guide to Sea Lettuce.
by Uma, 826NYC
A witty set of foolproof pickup lines.
by Najah, Grade 6, 826 MSP
A student appreciates and reflects on her mother's kindness over the years.
by Leslie, 826NYC
In this imaginative narrative about food justice, Golden Girl and LoLo go up against the evil Chemical Bug so kids everywhere can eat healthy fruits and vegetables.
by Alondra, 826CHI
An epic story of a princess who seeks acceptance among the stars.
by Kyle I., Grade 6, Kansas City, MO
A gender-fluid student's call to action to the next U.S. president to protect LGBTQIA+ rights.
by Kaitlyn, 826NYC
A creation myth reimagined in a poem.
by Uma Cantone, 826NYC
Ever wonder what would happen if the sky fell? This student uses metaphor to explore new beginnings.
by Brigid, 826CHI
A poem about facing fear—and learning how to shine.
by Liliana, 826DC
This student’s heartbreaking personal narrative describes what it can feel like to have your parents get divorced.
by Charlotte, 826CHI
A collection of haikus spanning sushi to surviving the sixth grade.
by Giovanna, 826NYC
An informative how-to on using a pen that can manipulate time and space.
by Renee, 826NYC
A poem that explores all that a tree can stand for.
by Marisa, 826michigan
A series of tweets about an adventurous cat named Marcus. #SuperCat #Meow
by Gael, 826CHI
A poem about becoming a dancer.
by Guinevre, 826CHI
A persuasive letter with a few ideas on how to improve cafeteria lunches at school.
by Kaiya S., Grade 6, 826DC
The harrowing tale of a super spy student vs. the villainous Mr.X.
by Saeed, 826NYC
Food justice advocacy is reimagined by this student as an epic battle rages between Nutriman, Captain Nutritional, and Junkster in a school cafeteria!
by Gael, 826CHI
A short but powerful poem about the circular nature of history.
by Jin, 826LA
This student says thank you to her Mom, her hero, for a life full love and beef noodles!
by Evelyn Escamilla, 826 Valencia
This poem uses metaphors and similes to describe happiness.
by Madison, 826 New Orleans
This poem leaves the reader descriptive clues to help them guess the mystery food.
by Khari Garris, New York, NY
A student remembers what life was like before the COVID-19 pandemic, and imagines a brighter day when schools reopen.
by Ayana A., Grade 6, 826NYC
by Kevin, 826NYC
A wizened middle schooler offers the benefits of sixth grade to younger readers, sprinkling in a few tips to survive and thrive in their year ahead.
by Krisbel D.L.M., Grade 6, 826 Valencia
A letter to the next President asking them to support immigration laws that will allow them to see their family.
by Penelope, 826 Valencia
In this superhero story, Super Duper Scarlet must save San Fran Superland from Doctor Nefario!
Jerieliz Garcia & Jaiden Vinti, 826NYC
Two poets braid together their reflections on where they come from.
by Jose Martin Gomez, 826 Valencia
This poem celebrates a special person in the writer's life.