In this letter from the Essential Words lesson, a freshman at South High School in Minneapolis thanks care workers for supporting our local and national communities during this global pandemic.

In this poem, a student’s experiences in two countries meld together as she seeks out her true home.

This poem uses metaphors and similes to explore many dualities of the narrator's life.

Making bottle flipping look like child's play, this piece outlines rules for the new, competitive Fantasy Sport "Pencils".

This poem gives insight to what it's like growing up Black in America.

In an exchange of letters, three students across one city share stories about where they came from and the places that matter most.

A teen discovers the power of books to transport him to another world, and shares his excitement about becoming a published author.

A poem about the complexity of love exchanged during the holidays.

In this memoir, the narrator recounts the struggle of being the bigger person in a very small space.

The written word is a powerful tool, and this poem shares a few reasons why the author continues to write.

A student explores the representation of LGBTQIA+ minorities and youth in US pop culture.

Through this short story, Kalyn explores ideas of home and change in an altered world.

A family interview reveals a mother's painful past and shines a light on her persistence.

A bilingual poem that expresses the love of one's culture and people

In this rousing poem, a student asserts her strength and worth as a woman.

This narrative calls us to see the world through the perspectives of others.

A bilingual "I am" poem filled with conviction and courage.

From the forthcoming anthology, Poets in Revolt!, this poem expresses the realization that a cage is not the only obstacle to a bird's freedom.

A student reflects on her origins to deconstruct social borders and seize her boundless future.

A student considers realistic happy endings and the representation of LGBTQIA+ youth through the analysis of two webcomics.

A powerful poem that lifts up Black women.

In this letter from the Essential Words lesson, 9th grader Sabrin discusses how she feels both happy and sad, and thanks nurses nationwide for bringing her peace through their work.

One student explores their online persona and the lasting importance of conscientious social media practices.

A student recalls their journey on how they discovered their LGBTQIA+ identity.

A personal essay that explores the different shades of the Black Lives Matter movement.

Aliens give this student superpowers to help him fulfill his greatest dream.

A poem to the next president of the U.S. demanding change and advocating for transgender rights.

A student explores the paradox of how technology is used amongst teenagers.

Discover what one student experiences when they tuck their phone away for a whole day.

Even though we may look different, we remain united with one another.

One teen writes a letter to his 14-year-old self, citing his past fears but looking towards his present, a brighter future.

A soccer-filled, feud-fueled memoir.

Through redefining a label, a student reclaims a piece of their identity.

A compilation of letters written by three students across one city filled with thoughts on books, sports, music, family, and musings on Valentine’s Day.

In this poem, a student reflects on their roots and their desire to grow.

A memoir that questions the idea of home and how it changes with time.

A student reflects on his life, stemming from the life of his father.

This student’s powerful piece reveals the essence of racial injustice.

This piece reminds us that a smile is not always what it seems.

In this heartfelt exchange of letters, two students bond over food, videos games, and some scary adventures.

A neighborhood ode filled with sights and sounds of the poet's street.

Living in the digital world can create unwanted attachments, as one student laments.

In this poem, a student reflects on identity.

When Instagram becomes an unsightly battlefield.

Over a series of letters, two compassionate and resilient students develop a deep friendship sealed in writing.

Using dialogue and detailed description, this poet investigates whose voices are heard and whose voices are left behind when injustice occurs.

From the forthcoming anthology, Poets in Revolt!, this poet uses her voice to speak up for those who have been silenced in the indigenous community.

A poem about the strength and limitations of language and shared culture.

A student explores U.S. soccer player Megan Rapinoe’s decision to kneel in protest during the national anthem.

Liner notes that showcase the meaning and musicality of the Jimmy Ruffin song “What Becomes of the Brokenhearted.”

A shout-out poem to some things missed (Hyderabad) and celebrated (Mom).

Two students across one city bond by writing letters to each other about the people they love most.

This creative short story explores a snapshot of what a future New Orleans might look like amid climate change.

A poet recounts his day out at the Yerba Buena Gardens.

A student compellingly argues that immigrants deserve respect and to be free of discrimination.

Two students write to each other about where they came from, what they love, and a few mishaps along the way in an exchange of letters.

The stunning and vulnerable poem processes feelings of loss, grief, and hope for the future.

In this letter from the Essential Words lesson, a sophomore at South High School in Minneapolis gives thanks to Children’s Hospital employees.

Peek into the mind of a student who considers artistic influences in her life.

A student reflects on a small moment and single sacrifice that transformed her outlook on giving.

A laugh-out-loud personal narrative about a crush. Has your heart ever beat so fast it might get a speeding ticket and a $500 fine?

This poet rejects judgement based on the color of one’s skin.

In this letter from the Essential Words lesson, 10th grader Tala asks essential workers what motivates them to keep going during these difficult times, offering her own views on hope for the future.

This poem uses a fundamental poetry technique, repetition, to share the writer's future plans.

An ode celebrating an important figure in this student’s life.

This poem personifies Earth as a mother coping with the brutalities of climate change.

A poem about staying true to yourself during a challenging transition

A student reimagines food justice: Fruit Woman must convince Junk Food Man and Cheesecake Boy to eat their fruits and vegetables.