Grades 4–5
Fantasy/SciFi, NarrativeWritingMarie is 10 years old and lives in Chicago. Marie likes to play with her Barbies and is really good at playing with her American Girl doll. She wishes she had all the Shopkins. If she could have any superpower, it would be to fly and appear anywhere. When Marie grows up, she wants to be famous for being best actress.
First, I have to take you back a long time to about six years ago, when Chesley was just a normal monkey exploring the forest. Now, he is a 56-year-old monster.
One day, out of nowhere, a monster called the Master appeared. It looked like a mini-person with a pointed nose and ears, and pimples on its face. Its clothes were made of leaves and it had boogers coming out of its nose. The Master started to chase Chesley around the forest, and Chesley ran away because he was scared. When the Master pulled the monkey’s arm, some snot got on the monkey. The next thing you know, the monkey turned into a monster—a really weird one. Chesley became short, with ears that looked like pineapple slices. His nose and hands were pointed and his fingers were smooth and pointed, like someone had shaved the tips off of celery stalks. He had one green eye.
Chesley lived in a very dark forest where trees do not grow, inside a cave the Master had taken over. There was snow and bugs everywhere. In the cave, there were rooms for the crazy monsters, the sloppy monsters, and the scary monsters. All of the monsters were animals that had been turned into monsters.
The Master was the only creature on Earth who was born a monster. When he started to grow, he had powers, and snot coming out his nose. His snot went through the animals’ fur and into their skin, like an infection. But instead of infecting the animals, it turned them into monsters.
Humans didn’t know that these monsters existed, but they might destroy the monsters while they are out hunting. The Master threatened to release the monsters back into the forest if they didn’t listen to him, but he really couldn’t do anything. If the monsters got caught by humans, they could just tell them that the Master was making monsters.
One night, Chesley snuck out of the cave and met another monster, who told him that the Master’s threats weren’t actually true. Chesley started to disobey the Master’s orders, and the Master threw him out of the kingdom, just like he had threatened. What the Master didn’t know was what would happen when the other wild animals found Chesley.
Chesley told the animals of the forest about his past and the monkey he used to be, and that he just wanted to be a normal monkey again. They remembered him from before and believed him. They had been wondering where the missing animals went, trying to find out who had been taking them. They planned a war against the Master.
The queen of the forest, who was a peacock, was sleeping, so the animals woke her up. While she got ready to use her powers, her butlers talked to each other.
“What do you think would have happened if we hadn’t told the queen?” Maria asked.
“There would be no more animals because, eventually, the Master would infect all of them,” said Jonathan.
Jonathan’s twin brother, Jason, started laughing. “That’s not going to happen.”
“Yes, it will,” said Jonathan.
“No, it won’t.”
“Yes, it will.“
“Hey, hey. You guys need to stop,” said Maria. “Can’t you see the queen is trying to work?”
“Stop!” screamed the queen. “I can’t concentrate with you two yelling and fighting. I need to do this spell.”
Chesley felt weird. He said, “Ow.”
“Shut up,” said the queen. “Don’t you want to be how you were?”
The queen used her powers to turn Chesley back into a monkey!
Chesley took the animals to the Master’s secret cave and all the animals came with their claws out. They went in and chased the monsters. In the middle of the attack, the Master said, “Hurry up, Chesley, we need to destroy these animals.” But then, he turned around and saw that Chesley was a monkey again.
“Chesley? Is that you?”
“Yup,” said Chesley.
During the fight, one of the cheetahs scratched a monster’s pimple and infected green stuff oozed out fast. So much came out that it overflowed the cave. The animals tried to walk through it but it was like swimming instead.
When the Master came out and used his powers to shake the place, all the infected stuff slid out. The monsters were fine, but they had nowhere to live because the cave was gone.
After that, the monsters stayed away from the animals. If they went to war again, the same thing would happen but they wouldn’t be saved—what the Master did could only happen once. That was how his powers worked.
The animals went home happy and safe, and the monsters did not bother them again. Chesley stayed a monkey, and because of what he did, he was made king.
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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 K.M., 826DC
In this piece, a student describes the challenges of being a superhero and reflects on their power to shine.
Perla Ortega, Age 9, 826 Valencia
A poet sweetly appreciates a teacher for her kindness.
by Ayelen C., Age 9, 826 Valencia
A student's sweet letter to their grandmother.
by Hope L.C., Age 10, 826DC
A silly story about dragon fruits -- no wait, fruit dragons!
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 Camilla S.R., Grade 5, 826 Valencia
A student describes her imaginary friend from Funky Town.
by Caleigh, 826LA
A letter offering a concise yet compelling list of all that awaits in LA.
by Kevin, 826LA
A letter from the author to the author on appreciating both the unconventional and conventional parts of oneself.
by Jeffrey, 826DC
In this "I Wish" poem, written in both Spanish and English, a student dreams of a more colorful world.
by Ciaran, 826NYC
A creative field guide to a Mourning Cloak butterfly who lives in New York City.
by Kathryn, 826NYC
A very scientific origin poem about french fries, starting with an argument between the sun and the moon.
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.
Vivien Norton, Age 12, 826michigan
A poet explores their love for writing with their friend.
by Alan, 826DC
This poem describes the thoughts of hunger.
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 Norah, Grade 5, 826DC
A student describes her mystical worm imaginary friend.
by Dahlia-Rose, 826NYC
A field guide to Queen Anne’s Lace and a day in the life from a flower’s perspective.
by Eric, 826CHI
This student recounts a fictional chat with George Washington about the American Revolution over a meal.
by Jesús, 826 Valencia
In this superhero story, Spyman is on an important mission—saving donuts from becoming bagels!
by Marvin, Grade 5, 826CHI
A troubled ghost haunts a boy’s dreams.
by Elaine, 826 Boston
A diary entry reflecting on a secret mission to Mars!
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 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 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 Luis Cornejo, age 9, 826 Valencia
A student recalls the first time they saw a ghost.
by Hanako M., Age 10, 826michigan
A "sense"-sational poem about the flowers in their yard.
by Christian, 826 New Orleans
This poem uses personification to introduce the audience to an olive and its cousin, Jeff.
by Marisa, 826NYC
A student reports on Islamophobia, using research and interviews to explore this mindset and its damaging repercussions.
by Aiden Spence, Grade 3, 826NYC
This poem describes all of the reasons why green is the best color.
Nasir Farmer, Age 8, 826 Boston
Our protagonist attempts to evade a boogieman invasion.
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 Yarely, 826michigan
A poem about grandma. English and Spanish versions included.
by Caira N., Grade 5, 826NYC
A student lists all the reasons why her school is the best!
by Athena, 826NYC
In this poem, a student explores both the seen and unseen powers of a superhero.
by Elian de Leon, 826NYC
A poem that focuses on color and translates it into sensory details.
by Naomi, 826michigan
A (mostly) love letter to a kiwi with delicious imagery.
by Camila R.G., Grade 4, 826LA
In this letter, a student asks the next U.S. President to help the homeless.
by Lyric White, age 10, 826 Valencia
A magical mountain quest to save a mermaid.
by Kayla, 826LA
This author reflects on an act of kindness to someone in need.
by Kelis, 826NYC
On the planet Mars, Zoe must defeat the supervillain Zygorn to avenge her family! Wait—was it all a dream?
by Olivia, 826NYC
An elegy for corn.
by Luana Anticona Nolasco, age 10, 826 Valencia
An eerie encounter with a shapeshifter after a grocery run.
by Sumaya, 826 MSP
This poem uses analogies to describe different objects the writer would like to be.
by Lina, 826 Valencia
A mischievous recipe calling for 3 tablespoons of candy, 10 gallons of not laughing, and 100 gallons of mother.
by Juna, 826michigan
A poem about taking the world in—and letting go.
by Quinn, 826CHI
A piece that explores the dynamic nature of love and might just become your next Valentine's Day card.
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 Yasmeen Whitney, Age 9, 826 Valencia
This poem declares a student's love for snow globes!
by Meredith, 826michigan
A poem about globe-sized dreams.
by Marisol, 826michigan
A young girl's poem about all the life she sees in her yard. English and Spanish versions included.
Dylan Sanderson, Grade 5, 826NYC
A student dreams of the most joyful place in the world--somewhere with their family and money!
by Keila, 826michigan
An "I Am From" poem. English and Spanish versions included.
by Mohamed F., 826 MSP
This poem uses descriptive language to leave the reader clues about the animal it is depicting.
by Giannyl Guerrero Cabral, 826 Boston
A practical list of ways anyone can stop bullying.
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 Kevin J. Ortiz, 826DC
A personal narrative about a trip to Ocean City, a lonely puppy, and sharing our fears with others.
by Fatima, 826michigan
A list poem about a beautiful room and a beautiful family in both English and Spanish.
by Keila S.O., 826michigan
An “I Am From” poem about growing up in Detroit.
by Jack, Grade 5, 826 New Orleans
In this transcript, a student shares three clear actions to stand up to bullies.
by Marisa, 826michigan
A series of tweets about an adventurous cat named Marcus. #SuperCat #Meow
by Maria, 826 Valencia
This student gives thanks to ordinary objects in an ode.
by Walter Linares, Age 11, 826 Valencia
The secrets of a spy in a red venom suit unfold...
by Jaceon B., Grade 4, 826 New Orleans
A student describes their butter covered imaginary friend.
by Talia, 826NYC
A creative field guide to Sea Lettuce.
by Joshua, 826CHI
Alien monsters and a young boy forge a friendship over a dramatic series of events.
by Jonathan Rivera Navarro, 826 Valencia
This poem celebrates and mourns a taco.
by Zari P., Grade 4, 826DC
A playful "I am" poem that explores what's possible.
by Uma, 826NYC
A witty set of foolproof pickup lines.
by Violeta, 826CHI
A monster's routine trip for tuna sandwich ingredients results in a broken arm!
Dominick Contreras Rodriguez, age 9, 826 Valencia
A student traces his identity through food and family.
by Angel Flores Vazquez, 826 Valencia
This poem illustrates the effectiveness of descriptive language.
by Athena, 826NYC
An "I Am From" superhero persona poem.
by Lux, 826NYC
A student reflects on their experiences with bullying and how they’ll take a stand in the future.
by Oscar, 826CHI
The story of a lifetime—literally.
Noah Jean Marie, Age 9, 826NYC
A poet captures the freedom of dancing.
by Smila H., Age 10, 826LA
A powerful acrostic poem that shares an encouraging message.
by Penelope, 826 Valencia
In this superhero story, Super Duper Scarlet must save San Fran Superland from Doctor Nefario!
Ren, 826 New Orleans
In this poem, a student explores what summer means to them.
by Claire, 826CHI
A poem about “unfinding” what was known and learning to explore.
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 Winta, 826DC
A concise but essential list of survival tips in the event of a sweet disaster.
by Salma, Grade 5, 826 Boston
A student reminds herself of the many ways she shines
by Ehmely, 826CHI
A crucial missive for anyone playing a high-stakes game of "Hide and Seek".
Elsie, 826 New Orleans
In this poem, a student celebrates individuality.
by Joseline, 826DC
A personal narrative about a teensie, tiny bit of jealousy for a new baby sister turning into love.
by Will, 826michigan
A student imagines life in the future.
by Rechab T., 826DC
This poem takes a surreal approach to describing a scene.
by Erriyanna, 826michigan
An epic poem about a younger sister. English and Spanish versions included.
Raven, 826 New Orleans
You guessed it—an ode to cookies.
by Elena Chambers, 826michigan
Thinking of Cherry Coke lip gloss, community, and dancing, this narrator celebrates life from their front stoop.
by Alexa, 826michigan
A poem that tastes like pepperoni pizza.
by Antoni L., 826DC
In this poem, the author discusses their origins through metaphor.
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 Victor, 826 Valencia
An ode to Beans, Rice, and Chicken.
by Kayamaghi, 826NYC
A lab experiment goes wrong and a humble scientist must save Superhero Land from a super speedy villain!
by Reyes, 826NYC
A creative field guide to the eastern gray squirrel.
by Simone, 826michigan
A poem about appreciating trees and why we should study them.
by Ivan Newton Ponce, 826 Valencia
This poem uses sensory details to describe the writer's favorite places.
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 Jekaya, 826 Boston
A student reflects on what it takes to stand up to bullies and speak up for others.
by Victor, 826 Valencia
This student gives thanks to ordinary objects in an ode.
by Salimatou, 826NYC
Together, a princess with superpowers and an orphan-turned-sidekick must save the king and queen of kingdom Atarica!
Raquel Campos, Age 10, 826 Valencia
Three friends, inspired by a stream of butterflies, bake a beautiful cake.
Roberto Misael Aguilera, Age 9, 826 Valencia
Discover the fearful T-Rex Koala--koala by day, monster by night!
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 Emma D., Grade 4, 826LA
A plea to the next President to provide better access to mental health treatment for youth.
by Alfredo Enriquez-Aguilar, 826 Valencia
Have you ever wanted to care for a dragon? This poem teaches you how.
by Liliana, 826DC
This student’s heartbreaking personal narrative describes what it can feel like to have your parents get divorced.
by Kenneth Vasquez, Age 10, 826 Valencia
A student reflects on their love of soccer.
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 Madison, 826 New Orleans
This poem leaves the reader descriptive clues to help them guess the mystery food.
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 Robert, 826CHI
A poem that explores the struggles of mine workers.
by Marco, 826LA
A screenplay about a plane crash and an epic journey to Mexico, with a twist!
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 Ramatoulie, 826DC
A student shares memories of transitioning from Gambia to a new home in the United States, complete with a snowy encounter.
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 Charm R., Grade 5, 826 New Orleans
This poem tells the story of a courageous little bird.
by Maia Sears, 826michigan
This student describes exciting things the future will bring, like elevators that can reach space!
by Girod, 826 New Orleans
This celebratory poem uses similes to list all of the things the writer loves about themself.
by Dy’Stonie V., Grade 5, 826 New Orleans
A poem that highlights the bond between grandparent, grandchild, and a sweet perfume.
by Felix E., 826 Valencia
A student's fear is conquered after a startling discovery.
by Ava Tassinari, 826 Boston
A story about a bullying incident on the school bus.
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!
Nur Schlenker, Age 10, 826 Valencia
A student paints two images, one of Halloween night, and the second of home.
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 Clara, 826 Valencia
A detailed design for a new school that students would love, complete with outdoor spaces for tennis and ice-skating!
by Natalie, 826 Valencia
A recipe for how to create a legendary rapper.
by Javier, 826DC
A student wishes for unexpected pops of color.
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 Daphne, 826 Valencia
A girl named Chloe embarks on a heroic mission after discovering a new super-identity: Fluffy Justice!
by Carolyn Danielle Wong, Age 9, 826 Valencia
In this poem, the writer showcases self-love and joy.
by Abdinasir, 826 MSP
This poem shares what someone might experience on Halloween.
by Kaitlyn, 826NYC
A creation myth reimagined in a poem.
by Donald W., Grade 4, 826michigan
A student describes their very helpful imaginary friend.
by Charlie, 826michigan
A very scientific retelling of why dinosaurs went extinct.
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 Ximena Torres, Age 9, 826 Valencia
A poem about the lessons your family can teach you.
by Damian A., Grade 4, 826CHI
A student describes their bear-y fun imaginary friend.
by Robert, 826CHI
A collection of haikus spanning books and cosmology.
by Milo, 826NYC
A creative origin story in which a programmer simultaneously creates life and biology in a program.
by Natalia, 826CHI
A story told by her grandfather leads Betty on a journey where fiction and reality collide.
by Pearl L., Age 10, 826DC
A story about Rory the dragon, the defender of all genders.
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 Chelsea, 826NYC
An academically-inclined student passes on their favorite tips for having fun before fifth grade starts.
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 Jalen, 826NYC
A series of superhero haiku inspired by engineering secret lairs.
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