Grades 6–8
Narrative, PoetryWritingBefore I knew how to stand,
I used to run
running away from everything I could not do
running away from the fears I did not want to face
Then I’d stop, look around, and stand
Let the fears run away and stand
Before I knew how to climb,
I used to fall
saying, “I’ll do it tomorrow”
Those words just turn to dust on a book you don’t know about
Coming to a hurdle, then just running back
or going under and getting a penalty
For something to work, you have to go over it
Something that comes easy is not worth it
Before I knew how to shine,
I used to break
letting a fall get the best of me
not getting up, not fixing a tear
Breaking can shine if you know how
by Marisa, 826michigan
A series of tweets about an adventurous cat named Marcus. #SuperCat #Meow
Antonella Yoryor, Grade 6, San Francisco, CA
Meet Felice, the storytelling fox with a voice like the moon.
by Shayne Williams
Discover what one student experiences when they tuck their phone away for a whole day.
by Jason, 826 Valencia
A student reports on the death of a college student from Bernal Heights, San Francisco, who neighbors believe was killed due to racial profiling.
by Jacore, 826 Valencia
An intriguing and educational essay discussing environmental consciousness and the devastating effects of global warming.
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 Jamie, 826 Valencia
A metaphorical poem about frustrations, from homework to homelessness.
by Sophia, 826CHI
In this poem, a student makes some noise about resilience and beating the odds.
by Madison, 826CHI
In this compelling essay, a student rejects apathy and explores what really matters in conversations about solving gun violence towards black and brown men.
by Penelope, 826 Valencia
In this superhero story, Super Duper Scarlet must save San Fran Superland from Doctor Nefario!
by Xaria, 826 Valencia
An argument against the wage gap that prevails in the U.S. and across the globe.
by Elsy, 826LA
Song lyrics about memories of cake and pizza, friendship, and giving 1,000 opinions.
by Jeff, 826CHI
In this piece, a student describes Christmas as a holiday best spent together.
by Khloe Fewster, 826 Valencia
This poem uses repetition to give advice for when you're feeling unsure of yourself.
by Curtis, 826michigan
A rhyming (inverse) ode to a very irritating noise.
by Mateo, 826CHI
An informative entry on the meaning and usage of a student-inspired word: doomungous.
by Rafael, 826CHI
A student remembers an afternoon adventure around town and explores what Chicago and community mean to him.
by Satis, 826 Valencia
A student argues for the importance of transgender rights in response to current events.
Mahera A., Age 12, 826CHI
What happens when the only thing two people have in common is their love for each other?
by Milo, 826NYC
A creative origin story in which a programmer simultaneously creates life and biology in a program.
by Emmanuel, 826DC
A personal narrative about a tender first sighting between brothers on a family trip to El Salvador.
by William, 826LA
A teen discovers the power of books to transport him to another world, and shares his excitement about becoming a published author.
by Sela, 826 MSP
This poem holds big dreams for the speaker's future.
by Kiara, 826CHI
In this personal narrative, a student explores growing up young and black in Chicago.
by Elizabeth W., 826 Valencia
A persuasive piece for women and girls to unite and cultivate a culture of body image positivity.
by Marco, 826LA
A screenplay about a plane crash and an epic journey to Mexico, with a twist!
by Ramatoulie, 826DC
A student shares memories of transitioning from Gambia to a new home in the United States, complete with a snowy encounter.
Amara, 826 New Orleans
An ode celebrating an important figure in this student’s life.
by CA, Grade 7, 826CHI
A writer's honest view of who they are and their potential.
by Smila H., Age 10, 826LA
A powerful acrostic poem that shares an encouraging message.
by Violet Roberts, Grade 8, 826DC
This personal narrative explores the connection between music, place, and self-reflection. We recommend reading it while listening to the included playlist.
by Destiny, 826NYC
In this poem, a student contrasts conflicting perspectives on the construction of the Dakota Access Pipeline.
by Calvin, 826michigan
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?
by Kaiya S., Grade 6, 826DC
The harrowing tale of a super spy student vs. the villainous Mr.X.
by Laila, 826CHI
A memoir about losing a parent—and a community’s support.
by Kevin, 826NYC
An informational briefing on a horrible incident in the year 5176 that changed the hoverboarding industry forever.
by Lola, 826 Valencia
A poem that portrays the arc of a love story told through the gift of a cigarette lighter.
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 Arielle B., Grade 8
This poem invites readers to remember that people are often going through more than choose to show.
by Fahima Dahir, 826 MSP
A poem about the strength and limitations of language and shared culture.
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 Luke, 826 Valencia
An essay shared in English and Spanish discusses the effects of global warming on penguins and their source of nutrients, krill.
by Jacob P., age 11, 826 LA
An iPad, a ghost, and an unexpected friendship.
by Evelyn Escamilla, Grade 8, 826 Valencia
This poem uses metaphors and similes to describe happiness.
by Diego, 826CHI
On the funniest day of this student’s life…
by Chloe Moreno, Grade 6, 826 Valencia, San Francisco, CA
An ode to being unapologetically yourself!
by Eva, 826 Valencia
A student celebrates the journey of discovering whom to love.
by Gael, 826CHI
A poem about becoming a dancer.
by Johnny Vasquez, 826 MSP
A family interview reveals a mother's painful past and shines a light on her persistence.
by John, 826NYC
A creative commentary on food justice in which Digestive Man defends local farms from Corn Boy and the Factory Farmers!
by Armaan, 826CHI
This author recounts the beginning of a family tradition: the best homemade sandwich ever!
by Tylor, 826NYC
A lean but essential checklist for readers to determine if they are awake.
Jaylin Guevarro, Grade 6, 826NYC
A poet admires their loved one through this warming ode.
by Salome Maldonando, 826CHI
A poem about unrequited love.
by Annapoorani L., Grade 7, Seattle WA
A student recounts their experience with a school shooting in a letter to the next U.S. President to reform gun control.
by Isabella Serrato, Grade 7, 826 Dallas Project
This poem uses sound devices to enhance the overall tone.
by Najah, Grade 6, 826 MSP
A student appreciates and reflects on her mother's kindness over the years.
by Henry, Matthew, & Santiago, 826CHI
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.
by Charlotte, 826CHI
A collection of haikus spanning sushi to surviving the sixth grade.
by Kevin J. Ortiz, 826DC
A personal narrative about a trip to Ocean City, a lonely puppy, and sharing our fears with others.
by Jose Martin Gomez, 826 Valencia
This poem celebrates a special person in the writer's life.
by Jazmine & Vanessa, 826CHI
Over a series of letters, two compassionate and resilient students develop a deep friendship sealed in writing.
by Piya, 826 Valencia
A demand to the public stop to buying ivory that seeks to explain the devastating effects of poaching on elephant and rhino populations.
by Cayden, Grade 8, 826DC
This poem lists all of the pieces that make up the writer's whole.
Willa Jones, Grade 8, Salt Lake City, UT
A young author explores a memory of stimming and captures the depth of their experience in a sparkling poem: "wishing I could shift into whatever form. / UNBOUND by what society expects. Free."
by Jeremiah Borgella, Grade 7, 826NYC
This powerful poem is a reminder that being Black is a superpower.
by Liliana, 826DC
This student’s heartbreaking personal narrative describes what it can feel like to have your parents get divorced.
Vivien Norton, Age 12, 826michigan
A poet explores their love for writing with their friend.
by Luis, 826LA
This student writes a letter to a hero with a sweet double kick: Jackie Chan!
by Jiyu Kim, Grade 7, Union Middle School, San Jose, CA
This poem shares the beautiful things that can happen when doubt fades away.
by Judethan Garfias Muñoz, Grade 8, 826 Valencia
This loving poem uses descriptive language to pay tribute to the writer's family.
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 Mabel Murray-Rudegeair, Grade 6, Minneapolis, Minnesota
This personal essay shares about the joy that comes from dancing in the rain.
by Marisa, 826NYC
A student reports on Islamophobia, using research and interviews to explore this mindset and its damaging repercussions.
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 Anjum, 826CHI
A shout-out poem to some things missed (Hyderabad) and celebrated (Mom).
by Ayana A., Grade 6, 826NYC
A student describes their fuzzy imaginary friend.
by Angelina Do, Grade 6, 826 Valencia
A poem about living in the space between two cultures.
by Makeia "Mason" Davis, Age 11, 826NYC
Not the Bacon Egg and Cheese Monster! This character profile brings a beloved breakfast sandwich to life in terrifying ways.
by Alondra, 826CHI
An epic story of a princess who seeks acceptance among the stars.
by Pia, 826NYC
A student reimagines food justice: Fruit Woman must convince Junk Food Man and Cheesecake Boy to eat their fruits and vegetables.
by Iliana, 826CHI
A student searches for answers in their community.
by Natalie, 826CHI
Weaving together Spanish and English, a student shares the discovery of a family secret.
by Meredith, 826michigan
A poem about globe-sized dreams.
by Joseline, 826DC
A personal narrative about a teensie, tiny bit of jealousy for a new baby sister turning into love.
by Nicky, Grade 6, Salt Lake City, UT
The pen is mightier than the sword!
by Jack, 826 Valencia
An argument against the overconsumption of sugar outlines the ways its effects are anything but sweet.
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 V.G., 826LA
A poem that muses on the purpose of borders in question and answer format.
by Juliana Anderson, Grade 6, 826 MSP
This action-packed sci-fi story will keep you on the edge of your seat!
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 Angel, 826CHI
Several friends harness a new source of energy and develop superpowers—with a surprise ending! Both Spanish and English versions available.
by Gael, 826CHI
A short but powerful poem about the circular nature of history.
by Kaitlyn, 826NYC
A middle school student firmly protests the flavor and quality of her school’s lunches.
by Talia, 826NYC
A creative field guide to Sea Lettuce.
by Reuben & Giselle, 826CHI
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.
by Chelsea, 826NYC
An acrostic poem about the Black Lives Matter movement.
by Calvin, 826michigan
A student professes love—to a jalapeño!
by Renee, 826NYC
A poem that explores all that a tree can stand for.
by David, 826CHI
A student writes about the smell, taste, and pace of their neighborhood.
by Uma, 826NYC
A witty set of foolproof pickup lines.
Jerieliz Garcia & Jaiden Vinti, 826NYC
Two poets braid together their reflections on where they come from.
by Daphne, 826 Valencia
A girl named Chloe embarks on a heroic mission after discovering a new super-identity: Fluffy Justice!
by Crystal Colorado, Age 12, 826 Valencia
This poem will take you to the beach and make you wonder if it was all a dream.
by Jin, 826LA
This student says thank you to her Mom, her hero, for a life full love and beef noodles!
by Natalie, 826 Valencia
A recipe for how to create a legendary rapper.
by Alonso, Grade 7, 826 Boston
An insightful set of instructions for surviving seventh grade, from a recent seventh grader in Boston.
by Janelle Suazo, age 12, 826 Valencia
A school dare gone horribly wrong!
Zain L., Age 13, 826CHI
A poet fights to understand a crucial question.
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 Jiaxi, 826CHI
A student’s worldview is forever altered after a lesson on the Segregation Era and Jim Crow.
by Ella, 826 Valencia
A persuasive argument for co-ed teams in the face of gender stereotypes, supported by results from primary research conducted by the author.
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 Itzel Medina Luna, 826 Valencia
In this poem from the 826 National anthology, Poets in Revolt!, a student walks through her neighborhood searching for hidden stories.
by Juna, 826michigan
A poem about taking the world in—and letting go.
by Andres Santisteban-Perez, age 12, 826 Valencia
When playing video games one night turned into a nightmare.
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 Blanca Estrada, Age 14, 826 Valencia
This poem explores all of sides of a tender heart.
by Salvador M., Grade 7, 826DC
A peaceful reflection on what type of place a student would be.
by Jalen, 826NYC
A series of superhero haiku inspired by engineering secret lairs.
by Kaitlyn, 826NYC
A creation myth reimagined in a poem.
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 Arianny, 826 Boston
A student reflects on the beauty, flavors, and pride of being Latino.
by Madison, 826 New Orleans
This poem leaves the reader descriptive clues to help them guess the mystery food.
by Cora B., Grade 8
This narrative uses nature imagery, to help the reader walk through a day in the speaker's shoes
by Athena, 826NYC
An "I Am From" superhero persona poem.
by Dayana Alvarado, 826CHI
A student shares finding home in two places: Mexico and Chicago.
by Sharon, 826CHI
A memoir about finding true friendship.
by Djeneba Soumaoro, 826michigan
A student’s manifesto!
by Mya, 826CHI
A piece packed with vivid description about taking risks at an ice rink.
Sizwe H., Age 13, 826michigan
A poet appreciates their loyal riding partner.
by Nicole Torres, age 12, 6th grade, 826 Valencia
Because sometimes you just need to tune out the world.
by Ibrahim, Grade 7, 826 MSP
In this letter from the Essential Words lesson, 7th grader Ibrahim thanks Nurses for the heart and soul they put into caring for their patients and fighting disease.
by Guinevre, 826CHI
A persuasive letter with a few ideas on how to improve cafeteria lunches at school.
by Jabari, Grade 8, 826 Valencia
A poem about wanting more from life.
by Sam, 826CHI
In this poem, a student pits mathematics against the unknown.
by Carolyn Danielle Wong, Age 9, 826 Valencia
In this poem, the writer showcases self-love and joy.
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.
by Caroline, 826 Valencia
A student explores U.S. soccer player Megan Rapinoe’s decision to kneel in protest during the national anthem.
by Christian Z., Age 14, 826 Valencia
A poet recounts his day out at the Yerba Buena Gardens.
by Victor, 826CHI
An epic memoir about an epic volleyball match! Who will win: the teachers or the students?
by Charlotte, 826CHI
A poem about spring!
by Chelsea, 826NYC
A creative field guide to Daddy Longlegs.
by Isabella C., Age 13, 826 Valencia
The misadventures of finding a missing wallet.
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 Simone, 826michigan
A poem about appreciating trees and why we should study them.
by Jesús, 826 Valencia
In this superhero story, Spyman is on an important mission—saving donuts from becoming bagels!
by Issa Caothien, 826NYC
In this resolution inspired by the "Include Someone" lesson and Cartoon Network storyboard, we learn that if you work together, you're golden!
by Wayne Gillyard, 826 Valencia
This poem shares the writer's love of all things yellow.
by Isabel, 826 Boston
From the 826 National anthology, Poets in Revolt!, this poem features a student battling with the voices constricting her freedom.
by the Class of 640 at M.S. 88, 826NYC
This bilingual poem shares an excellent recipe for how to survive middle school.
by Faisa Y., Grade 6, 826MSP
A student describes their comfort fairy imaginary friend.
by Robert, 826CHI
A collection of haikus spanning books and cosmology.
by Athena, 826NYC
In this poem, a student explores both the seen and unseen powers of a superhero.
by Emmanuel J., 826NYC
An avid basketball fan discusses the rise of the Golden State Warriors through its individual players.
by Mariah Valenzuela, Minneapolis, MN
From the 826 National anthology, Poets in Revolt!, this poet uses her voice to speak up for those who have been silenced in the indigenous community.
by Lesly, 826 Valencia
A sports poem about the losing blues.
by Valary K., Grade 6, 826 MSP
A story about a mysterious tunnel that leaves you on the edge of your seat!
by Inge S., Age 13, 826CHI
Part riddle, part observations, this poem leaves the reader with big things to think about.
by Sahir M., Grade 7
This poem uses metaphors to describe who the speaker really is.
by Jason, 826michigan
Making bottle flipping look like child's play, this piece outlines rules for the new, competitive Fantasy Sport "Pencils".
by Duanté, 826 Valencia
A personal narrative about race and identity.
by Claire Leiva, Grade 6, 826michigan
A poem about the writer's favorite animal—corgis!
by Vivian, 826CHI
A narrative about loving to run—and learning to never quit!
by Renee, 826NYC
A poem about a place where ideas can grow.
by Sian Laing
When Instagram becomes an unsightly battlefield.
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 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 Asa, 826CHI
This narrator embarks on a mysterious vacation in the sky!
by Ella H., Grade 6, 826DC
Settle in as this young storyteller spins a tale about Shady Street, where cats can talk and broccoli casserole helps solve conflicts.
by Isabella, 826CHI
A student describes a scrumptious five-course meal—everything except the vegetables, that is!
by Renée, Grade 8, 826NYC
A persuasive letter detailing to the recipient the pointlessness of writing a persuasive letter. A helpful example for reluctant writers.
by Andy, 826CHI
In this memoir, a few friends bond over a rare Pokémon Go catch.
by Uma Cantone, 826NYC
Ever wonder what would happen if the sky fell? This student uses metaphor to explore new beginnings.
by Harrison, 826michigan
A recursive poem that helps students explore the potential connections between math fractals and verse.
by Angel, 826CHI
A student writes about the transformative experience of changing schools.
by Roger, 826 Valencia
An essay in English and Spanish that traces connections between two movements in modern American history for the rights of people of color.
by Sara Sofia Becerra L., Age 14, 826 Valencia
This poem shares the writer's love for music with the world.
by Lina, 826 Valencia
A mischievous recipe calling for 3 tablespoons of candy, 10 gallons of not laughing, and 100 gallons of mother.
by Byanna & Kayla, 826CHI
Two students across one city bond by writing letters to each other about the people they love most.
by Gabriela T., 826 Valencia
In this resolution inspired by the "Include Someone" lesson and Cartoon Network storyboard, we learn that inclusive leaders take action—they don't wait for others to make a difference.
by Sebastian Cendejas, 826CHI
A student reflects on how much Chicago means to them.
by David & Daniel, 826CHI
In this heartfelt exchange of letters, two students bond over food, videos games, and some scary adventures.
by Christopher, Bryan, & Jahir, 826CHI
In an exchange of letters, three students across one city share stories about where they came from and the places that matter most.
by Anonymous, Grade 8, 826 Boston
In this poem from the 826 National anthology, Poets in Revolt!, a student reflects on identity.
by Yvanna Bodiana, Age 13, 826 Valencia
A reflection on freedom and Black resilience in the face of opposition.
by Chidi A., Age 12, 826 Valencia
A poet hears the weight of history like music when playing basketball.
by Giovanna, 826NYC
An informative how-to on using a pen that can manipulate time and space.
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!
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