Grades 9–12
NarrativeWritingOn a dark and gloomy night, with droplets of water crashing against our little blue car, my mother and I were exiting the 10 Freeway on our way to church. The sound of the water was like a dramatic opera song; with each moment the droplets sounded heavier and heavier. We were waiting for the light to turn green when I noticed a tiny old man sitting by the side of the road on a bench stool, waiting in the frigid rain. The man’s physical demeanor made it seem like he was fifty, but as I noticed the creases in his face I began to think otherwise. His face had blotches of dirt and the sun had aged his skin like a dry old prune. His dark clothes were torn and faded, and his shoes were ragged.
As I continued to observe the man, it became clear to me that the streets were his home. I immediately looked away when he noticed that I was staring at him, for I could not look the feeble old man in the eye. It was not because I was ashamed of him or myself, it was because I looked back on my life and realized that I had a lot to be grateful for, like my family, home, and shelter. I just assumed that everyone had all those basic things in life.
Sitting there in our little blue car, my mother noticed my curiosity in the man. She also realized that he was homeless and that he was in need of shelter. Before the light got the chance to turn green, my mother ordered me to get our emergency umbrella out of the glove compartment and hand it to her. She quickly rolled down her window and called to the man, waving the umbrella at him. When the man noticed that she was talking to him, he quickly ran to her to receive the umbrella. It was like watching a frozen statue come to life; the man moved with so much speed and agility that it seemed like he was flying towards our car. The sound of his feet colliding with the wet cement, his steps getting louder and louder as he approached our car, was nerve-wracking because we didn’t want the light to turn green and for him to miss us. As we were turning, the man was waving and yelling a thank you with what seemed to be the last of his energy. As we were driving away, I caught a glimpse of gratitude on his face. I mentioned to my mother that that was our only umbrella as I realized that we would have to walk in the rain when we got out of our car. In that moment my mother told me, “He who gives to the poor shall not lack: but he that hides his eyes shall have many a curse,”—something that would become even more than a life lesson; it would become a virtue that I live by.
When we arrived to our house and I took that first step out of the car, the sharp hard wind hit me and the droplets crashed against the top of my head, and suddenly I stepped into his shoes. I started to realize that this wasn’t the only tough situation he would have to face. He would have to face not having enough to eat some nights or not having a decent place to sleep—all the things that I never paid attention to in my daily life.
As I walked to my house, I kept remembering the man’s expression and how I felt fulfilled by doing something good for someone without expecting any benefits. I found myself skipping and jumping in the rain, enjoying the feeling that I had and embracing the fact that people who do good feel good. Then I entered my home and the rain stopped; the wind had vanished and so had the moment.
As time passed, I still thought back on that moment and tried to find the meaning in the words that my mother said. It wasn’t until I started growing up, and I was put into life situations where I was given the chance to do something for someone else out of the kindness of my heart, that I found my virtue. To this day, I find myself making small sacrifices, like giving my sandwich to a dog or a few dollars that I can spare to a sweet old woman. The act of giving has really become a part of my life; even when it is something small, I know that a little act of kindness can go a long way.
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Each Little Leaf, by the students of Ánimo Venice Charter High School with a foreword by Dolores Huerta, is a collection of stories about the smallest moments that end up changing our lives. It is a book about the consequences of the seemingly inconsequential, the inescapable impact of a single moment—of decision, laughter, or even the impact of individual reactions on our realities. An 826LA Young Authors' Book Project.
by Lisbeth M.F., 826NYC
A story about how Marcus becomes Marcela.
by Jesus Sanchez, The 826 Dallas Project
This creative short horror piece explores the mysteries and danger of a night in the woods.
by Jahruwach Hamilton, 826NYC
In this rousing poem, a student asserts her strength and worth as a woman.
by Anonymous, Grade 8, 826 Boston
In this poem, a student reflects on identity.
Amara, 826 New Orleans
An ode celebrating an important figure in this student’s life.
by Izzy T., 826 Valencia
A student reflects on memories of home and what binds her special community together.
by Sabrin, Grade 9, 826 MSP
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.
Virginia Walker, age 18, 826 Boston
A student writes to a grandmother she never met.
by Cristina, 826CHI
A student recounts separation with a beloved friend through a nostalgic lens.
by Katya Torres, The 826 Dallas Project
This bilingual poem explores the harrowing story of a boy working while in school to save his mother.
by Maya M., Grade 11, Newburg, OR
A student reflects on the memories they made while backpacking.
by Joanne H, 826 Valencia
In this poem, a student’s experiences in two countries meld together as she seeks out her true home.
by Justis Porter, age 16, 826 Boston
A neighborhood ode filled with sights and sounds of the poet's street.
by Kaleo V.C., Age 17, 826 Valencia
A student looks back on their first day of kindergarten and how they've changed.
by Colin Y., Age 17, 826 Valencia
A student describes how volunteering saved him from his online prison.
by Kevin G, 826 Valencia
This narrative calls us to see the world through the perspectives of others.
by Rockelle Rodd, Grade 11, 826NYC
This poem uses analogies to describe all of the pieces of the writer's personal history.
by Brandon R., 826LA
A student recounts the epic highs and lows of high school track and cross country.
by Timothy T., Age 17, 826 Valencia
A student tells the story of how his family has influenced his life.
by Corazón, 826 New Orleans
In this essay, a student threads their identity across cultures, histories, and places, engaging with legacies of violence and the movement of people.
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?
Annasian Walters, Grade 11-12, 826NYC
A student explores gratitude and love through sharing food.
by Navayah, 826 MSP
Through redefining a label, a student reclaims a piece of their identity.
by Arianna R., Grade 11, 826 Boston
A beautiful ode to home and self.
by Melody Marcano, 826 Boston
In this poem, a student reflects on their roots and their desire to grow.
by Anthony, 826DC
This poem gives insight to what it's like growing up Black in America.
by Sharoya Bracey, 826NYC
In this memoir, the narrator recounts the struggle of being the bigger person in a very small space.
by Samantha Wint, Grade 9, 826 Valencia
This poem uses metaphors and similes to explore many dualities of the narrator's life.
by Abby S., Grade 11, 826 Boston
An author reflects on their correspondence with their friend from the past.
Yashasa Fluker, Grade 9, 826 New Orleans
A student describes the eeriness of liminal spaces.
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.
Yamilet J., 826LA
A student reflects on the fear and wonder of becoming a mother.
by Camille, 826LA
A student finds her wings in unexpected places in this piece about the transition to college.
by Jazmine & Vanessa, 826CHI
Over a series of letters, two compassionate and resilient students develop a deep friendship sealed in writing.
by Karina Centeno, Grade 12, 826 Dallas Project
This poem takes an honest look at two sides of the writer's culture.
by Luciana, Grade 10, 826 MSP
In this letter from the Essential Words lesson, a sophomore at South High School in Minneapolis gives thanks to Children’s Hospital employees.
by Franny, 826CHI
A student spins through space and a treasure trove of memories in this poem.
by Albin C., Age 18, 826 Boston
A student recalls how he was able to take charge and turn his life around.
by Rey, Grade 9, 826 MSP
Aliens give this student superpowers to help him fulfill his greatest dream.
by Sian Laing
When Instagram becomes an unsightly battlefield.
Cate H, Grade 12, 826CHI
A poet sets the stage to showcase her reflections on being trans.
by Junaynah R., Grade 11, 826NYC
Full of exquisite imagery, this poem explores the idea of second chances.
by Keyshana, Grade 11, 826CHI
Black strength, beauty, and pride soar in this poem as a student discusses overcoming brutality and discrimination.
by Salma Khalif, 826 MSP
A powerful poem that lifts up Black women.
Alex P., Grade 10, 826 National
A poem to the next president of the U.S. demanding change and advocating for transgender rights.
by Raheem, 826 New Orleans
A student compares themself to the place they live, New Orleans, as both evolve through great obstacles.
by Samuel Wang, Grade 10, 826NYC
A poem about the complexity of love exchanged during the holidays.
by Gilbert, 826LA
One teen writes a letter to his 14-year-old self, citing his past fears but looking towards his present, a brighter future.
by Julianna Cruz, 826 Dallas Project
This narrative piece contemplates the struggle of immigrants during the pandemic.
Henry F., Grade 12, 826CHI
A trans student reflects on their desire to be male.
by Mercury, 826CHI
A student explores the representation of LGBTQIA+ minorities and youth in US pop culture.
by Maggie Munday Odom, Kailua, HI
This poem personifies Earth as a mother coping with the brutalities of climate change.
by Leydi Di Villanueva, The 826 Dallas Project
This creative narrative imagines how the coronavirus views humanity during the pandemic.
by Michaiah Anderson, The 826 Dallas Project
In this poem, a student describes their family origins with an intimate point of view
by Isaiah, 826 New Orleans
This student reveals the mysterious origin story of the king cake. Hint: it includes Big Freedia, DJ Chicken Wing, and a massive party.
Kenya G., 17, 826LA
A poet relates her experience as a queer woman in the closet to a peacock in the zoo.
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 Sergio M, 826 Valencia
This piece reminds us that a smile is not always what it seems.
by Jeremy Hsiao, 826 National
From the forthcoming anthology, Poets in Revolt!, this poem reminds activists that "to change everything, we need everyone."
by Sarah X., Grade 12, 826 Boston
A student shares how they've uplifted their community.
by Kailyn Espinosa, 826NYC
In this letter from the Essential Words lesson, a student shares how essential workers’ courage and compassion center her during these hectic times.
by Kyla Edwards, 826 New Orleans
This creative short story explores a snapshot of what a future New Orleans might look like amid climate change.
by Tina N., Grade 12, 826 Boston
A student describes their shark like imaginary friend.
by Isabella, 826NYC
This poet rejects judgement based on the color of one’s skin.
by Quardasha Mitchell, The 826 Dallas Project
In this compelling poem, the author navigates her relationship with America as a young African-American woman.
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 Sally Phan, 826 Boston
A memoir that questions the idea of home and how it changes with time.
by Tala, Grade 10, 826 MSP
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.
by Tammy Fong, 826NYC
A soccer-filled, feud-fueled memoir.
by Vanessa Ramon-Ibarra, 826DC
Living in the digital world can create unwanted attachments, as one student laments.
by Jizelle Villegas, Grade 12, 826 Dallas Project
The stunning and vulnerable poem processes feelings of loss, grief, and hope for the future.
by Sabrin, 826 MSP
The written word is a powerful tool, and this poem shares a few reasons why the author continues to write.
by Savannah, 826NYC
Using dialogue and detailed description, this poet investigates whose voices are heard and whose voices are left behind when injustice occurs.
by Bianca Morcho, 826 MSP
A personal essay that explores the different shades of the Black Lives Matter movement.
by Elsy M.E., Grade 11, 826 Valencia
A poet imagines a better and more harmonious world.
by Soraya, 826NYC
This student’s powerful piece reveals the essence of racial injustice.
by Raymond A., Grade 10, 826 Boston
A bilingual poem that expresses the love of one's culture and people
by Sammie, Grade 9, 826 MSP
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.
by Jennifer Alcocer, The 826 Dallas Project
This personal narrative addresses the struggles of students graduating high school during the pandemic.
by Jonas K., 826 National
A student explores the paradox of how technology is used amongst teenagers.
by Terra C., Grades 10-11, 826NYC
A student recalls their journey on how they discovered their LGBTQIA+ identity.
by Johnny Vasquez, 826 MSP
A family interview reveals a mother's painful past and shines a light on her persistence.
by Terry Velasquez, Grade 12, The Bronx, NY
In this letter from the Essential Words lesson, a student shares gratitude for the dedication of nurses and gives “credit where credit is due.”
by Sylvia C., 826 Valencia
A poet demonstrates their devotion to love.
by Kayla, 826 Boston
This poem offers a very-real answer to "What do you want to be when you grow up?"
by Jasmine J, 826 Valencia
A student reflects on her origins to deconstruct social borders and seize her boundless future.
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 Earl Williams Jr., The 826 Dallas Project
A powerful poetic piece about the experience of being Black in America.
by Matthew Inoa, 826 NYC
In this letter from the Essential Words lesson, a student describes how essential workers are the pulse of New York, fueling the city’s hope.
by Alexis G., Grade 11
In this narrative, the author uses vibrant language to explore their identity, in all its complexity, through different landscapes.
by Helen, Grade 12, 826 MSP
In this letter from the Essential Words lesson, a senior at South High School in Minneapolis offers words of support to healthcare workers across the country, including her own mom.
by David & Daniel, 826CHI
In this heartfelt exchange of letters, two students bond over food, videos games, and some scary adventures.
by Augustus Griffith Jr., 826 National
From the forthcoming anthology, Poets in Revolt!, this poem explores the aftermath and lasting impacts of school shootings.
by Yazmine-Gizelle, 826DC
This poem uses a fundamental poetry technique, repetition, to share the writer's future plans.
by Ryan, Grade 12, 826 Boston
In this public narrative, a student illustrates the hardships his uncle has faced to argue for a path to citizenship.
Rosman A., age 18, 826CHI
Smells swirl about a student walking around an ice cream shop.
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 Jesus C., Grade 12, 826LA
A poet identifies with a trapped ocelot at the zoo.
by Sarah X. Age 18, 826Boston
A rousing public narrative from an author coming to terms with their identity as a young Chinese American woman and what they represent: the community of Boston's Chinatown.
by Karla M., 826LA
A poem for lovers of love and the moon.
by Gisel J., 826LA
The power of public speaking shines through this student's memoir.
by Shayne Williams
Discover what one student experiences when they tuck their phone away for a whole day.
by Fahima Dahir, 826 MSP
A poem about the strength and limitations of language and shared culture.
by Oriel, 826NYC
In this poem, an echoing question strikes a chord and reveals the tragic loss held within systemic injustice.
by Nhu N., Grade 12, 826 Boston
A young writer reconciles their sexuality with the beliefs of their community.
by Jordan, 826 New Orleans
Crawfish, crayfish, or mudbugs. Whatever you call them, the writer of this poem doesn't like them.
by Regina, 826LA
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.
by Jazlyn Moses, 826 National
One student explores their online persona and the lasting importance of conscientious social media practices.
by Ryker, 826michigan
Liner notes that showcase the meaning and musicality of the Jimmy Ruffin song “What Becomes of the Brokenhearted.”
by Lucas Hu, 826 Boston
A poem about staying true to yourself during a challenging transition
by Kayla Wayne, Grade 11, 826NYC
In this poem, a student reflects on their first encounter with forced assimilation.
by Chris O., Age 15, 826 Valencia
A freshman describes their first day of school on their own.
by Aniah, 826 MSP
A student is lifted up by the dance of her ancestors.
by Charles, 826 MSP
A student reflects on his life, stemming from the life of his father.
by Caroline, 826 Valencia
A student explores U.S. soccer player Megan Rapinoe’s decision to kneel in protest during the national anthem.
by Anjum, 826CHI
A shout-out poem to some things missed (Hyderabad) and celebrated (Mom).
by Cindy, 826LA
A student compellingly argues that immigrants deserve respect and to be free of discrimination.
by Mariah Valenzuela, Minneapolis, MN
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.
by Henry F., Grade 12, 826CHI
In this poem, a student reflects on identity.
by Alanis T., Age 17, 826 Boston
A student reflects on how her relationship's with her parents has influenced her life.
by Maria, Grade 12, 826 Boston
In this public narrative, a student makes the case for creating community change by building youth centers in her neighborhood.
by Pretty S, 826 Valencia
Peek into the mind of a student who considers artistic influences in her life.
by Aphra, 826CHI
A student considers realistic happy endings and the representation of LGBTQIA+ youth through the analysis of two webcomics.
by Riti Shrestha, 826NYC
In this poem, metaphor is used to describe who the narrator is.
by Lukoiy V.R.G., Grade 12, Woodburn, OR
A poet speaks out as a voice for change and all those who cannot speak.
by Kalyn Jackson, 826 New Orleans
Through this short story, Kalyn explores ideas of home and change in an altered world.
by Christian Z., Age 14, 826 Valencia
A poet recounts his day out at the Yerba Buena Gardens.
by Byanna & Kayla, 826CHI
Two students across one city bond by writing letters to each other about the people they love most.
by Numan Khan, age 16, 826 Boston
A bilingual "I am" poem filled with conviction and courage.
by Jason, 826michigan
Making bottle flipping look like child's play, this piece outlines rules for the new, competitive Fantasy Sport "Pencils".
by George S., Grade 11, 826 Boston
A writer implores people to get outside and touch grass because you never know what you might find!
by Elizabeth W, 826 Valencia
Even though we may look different, we remain united with one another.
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