Grades 4–5
PoetryWritingHALLOWEEN NIGHT
On a Halloween night you see and hear…
Twix playing tricks, Snickers snickering,
Jolly Ranchers dressed as jolly ranchers,
Candy Corn eating corn on the cob,
Lollipops lolling about, Poprocks popping up,
And bubble gum blowing bubbles.
Meanwhile, jack-o-lanterns smiles go ear-to-ear,
The fabric ghosts swoosh away,
Fake spiders scuttle on their webs,
And puppet witches cackle away.
Go forward some and you will see
The streets are filled with goblins, ghosts, witches, pumpkins,
Astronauts, bacon and eggs, and bats.
AT HOME
At home, at home in the living room,
The sleepy couch rests cozily in front of the chatty TV.
At home, at home in the bedroom,
The bunk bed stands tall and kind,
While the bookshelf groans quietly.
At home, at home in the kitchen,
The dishwasher cleans efficiently and relentlessly,
And the blender’s stomach churns with indigestion.
At home, at home in the bathroom,
The sink cries and cries,
While the toilet sits short and squat.
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 Natalie, 826 Valencia
A recipe for how to create a legendary rapper.
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 Ivan Newton Ponce, 826 Valencia
This poem uses sensory details to describe the writer's favorite places.
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 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 Smila H., Age 10, 826LA
A powerful acrostic poem that shares an encouraging message.
by Javier, 826DC
A student wishes for unexpected pops of color.
Raquel Campos, Age 10, 826 Valencia
Three friends, inspired by a stream of butterflies, bake a beautiful cake.
by Sumaya, 826 MSP
This poem uses analogies to describe different objects the writer would like to be.
by Luis Cornejo, age 9, 826 Valencia
A student recalls the first time they saw a ghost.
by Dahlia-Rose, 826NYC
A field guide to Queen Anne’s Lace and a day in the life from a flower’s perspective.
by Elena Chambers, 826michigan
Thinking of Cherry Coke lip gloss, community, and dancing, this narrator celebrates life from their front stoop.
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 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 Rechab T., 826DC
This poem takes a surreal approach to describing a scene.
Nasir Farmer, Age 8, 826 Boston
Our protagonist attempts to evade a boogieman invasion.
by Yarely, 826michigan
A poem about grandma. English and Spanish versions included.
by Meredith, 826michigan
A poem about globe-sized dreams.
by Jekaya, 826 Boston
A student reflects on what it takes to stand up to bullies and speak up for others.
by Marco, 826LA
A screenplay about a plane crash and an epic journey to Mexico, with a twist!
by Ava Tassinari, 826 Boston
A story about a bullying incident on the school bus.
Perla Ortega, Age 9, 826 Valencia
A poet sweetly appreciates a teacher for her kindness.
by Luana Anticona Nolasco, age 10, 826 Valencia
An eerie encounter with a shapeshifter after a grocery run.
by Juna, 826michigan
A poem about taking the world in—and letting go.
by Kenneth Vasquez, Age 10, 826 Valencia
A student reflects on their love of soccer.
by Girod, 826 New Orleans
This celebratory poem uses similes to list all of the things the writer loves about themself.
by Fatima, 826michigan
A list poem about a beautiful room and a beautiful family in both English and Spanish.
by Christian, 826 New Orleans
This poem uses personification to introduce the audience to an olive and its cousin, Jeff.
by Victor, 826 Valencia
An ode to Beans, Rice, and Chicken.
by Lina, 826 Valencia
A mischievous recipe calling for 3 tablespoons of candy, 10 gallons of not laughing, and 100 gallons of mother.
by Salma, Grade 5, 826 Boston
A student reminds herself of the many ways she shines
by Alan, 826DC
This poem describes the thoughts of hunger.
by Victor, 826 Valencia
This student gives thanks to ordinary objects in an ode.
by Daphne, 826 Valencia
A girl named Chloe embarks on a heroic mission after discovering a new super-identity: Fluffy Justice!
by Abdinasir, 826 MSP
This poem shares what someone might experience on Halloween.
by Lux, 826NYC
A student reflects on their experiences with bullying and how they’ll take a stand in the future.
by Jesús, 826 Valencia
In this superhero story, Spyman is on an important mission—saving donuts from becoming bagels!
by Claire, 826CHI
A poem about “unfinding” what was known and learning to explore.
by Charm R., Grade 5, 826 New Orleans
This poem tells the story of a courageous little bird.
by Camilla S.R., Grade 5, 826 Valencia
A student describes her imaginary friend from Funky Town.
by Marie, 826CHI
A monkey named Chesley saves the animals of the forest from an evil Master!
by Robert, 826CHI
A poem that explores the struggles of mine workers.
by Eric, 826CHI
This student recounts a fictional chat with George Washington about the American Revolution over a meal.
by Lyric White, age 10, 826 Valencia
A magical mountain quest to save a mermaid.
by Aiden Spence, Grade 3, 826NYC
This poem describes all of the reasons why green is the best color.
by Emma D., Grade 4, 826LA
A plea to the next President to provide better access to mental health treatment for youth.
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 Maia Sears, 826michigan
This student describes exciting things the future will bring, like elevators that can reach space!
by Chelsea, 826NYC
An academically-inclined student passes on their favorite tips for having fun before fifth grade starts.
by Will, 826michigan
A student imagines life in the future.
by Erriyanna, 826michigan
An epic poem about a younger sister. English and Spanish versions included.
by Kathryn, 826NYC
A very scientific origin poem about french fries, starting with an argument between the sun and the moon.
by Ayelen C., Age 9, 826 Valencia
A student's sweet letter to their grandmother.
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.
Dominick Contreras Rodriguez, age 9, 826 Valencia
A student traces his identity through food and family.
by Marvin, Grade 5, 826CHI
A troubled ghost haunts a boy’s dreams.
by Reyes, 826NYC
A creative field guide to the eastern gray squirrel.
by Emmanuel, 826DC
A personal narrative about a tender first sighting between brothers on a family trip to El Salvador.
by Keila S.O., 826michigan
An “I Am From” poem about growing up in Detroit.
by Kaitlyn, 826NYC
A creation myth reimagined in a poem.
by Dy’Stonie V., Grade 5, 826 New Orleans
A poem that highlights the bond between grandparent, grandchild, and a sweet perfume.
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!
by Oscar, 826CHI
The story of a lifetime—literally.
by Pearl L., Age 10, 826DC
A story about Rory the dragon, the defender of all genders.
Noah Jean Marie, Age 9, 826NYC
A poet captures the freedom of dancing.
by Athena, 826NYC
In this poem, a student explores both the seen and unseen powers of a superhero.
by Joseline, 826DC
A personal narrative about a teensie, tiny bit of jealousy for a new baby sister turning into love.
by Naomi, 826michigan
A (mostly) love letter to a kiwi with delicious imagery.
by Jalen, 826NYC
A series of superhero haiku inspired by engineering secret lairs.
by Mohamed F., 826 MSP
This poem uses descriptive language to leave the reader clues about the animal it is depicting.
by Jeffrey, 826DC
In this "I Wish" poem, written in both Spanish and English, a student dreams of a more colorful world.
by Simone, 826michigan
A poem about appreciating trees and why we should study them.
by Ciaran, 826NYC
A creative field guide to a Mourning Cloak butterfly who lives in New York City.
by Marisol, 826michigan
A young girl's poem about all the life she sees in her yard. English and Spanish versions included.
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 Donald W., Grade 4, 826michigan
A student describes their very helpful imaginary friend.
by Ximena Torres, Age 9, 826 Valencia
A poem about the lessons your family can teach you.
by Winta, 826DC
A concise but essential list of survival tips in the event of a sweet disaster.
by Jonathan Rivera Navarro, 826 Valencia
This poem celebrates and mourns a taco.
by Caira N., Grade 5, 826NYC
A student lists all the reasons why her school is the best!
by Charlie, 826michigan
A very scientific retelling of why dinosaurs went extinct.
by Kevin, 826LA
A letter from the author to the author on appreciating both the unconventional and conventional parts of oneself.
by K.M., 826DC
In this piece, a student describes the challenges of being a superhero and reflects on their power to shine.
by Norah, Grade 5, 826DC
A student describes her mystical worm imaginary friend.
by Kelis, 826NYC
On the planet Mars, Zoe must defeat the supervillain Zygorn to avenge her family! Wait—was it all a dream?
by Damian A., Grade 4, 826CHI
A student describes their bear-y fun imaginary friend.
by Salimatou, 826NYC
Together, a princess with superpowers and an orphan-turned-sidekick must save the king and queen of kingdom Atarica!
by Jack, Grade 5, 826 New Orleans
In this transcript, a student shares three clear actions to stand up to bullies.
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 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 Ehmely, 826CHI
A crucial missive for anyone playing a high-stakes game of "Hide and Seek".
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 Alfredo Enriquez-Aguilar, 826 Valencia
Have you ever wanted to care for a dragon? This poem teaches you how.
Roberto Misael Aguilera, Age 9, 826 Valencia
Discover the fearful T-Rex Koala--koala by day, monster by night!
by Violeta, 826CHI
A monster's routine trip for tuna sandwich ingredients results in a broken arm!
by Penelope, 826 Valencia
In this superhero story, Super Duper Scarlet must save San Fran Superland from Doctor Nefario!
by Maria, 826 Valencia
This student gives thanks to ordinary objects in an ode.
by Felix E., 826 Valencia
A student's fear is conquered after a startling discovery.
by Walter Linares, Age 11, 826 Valencia
The secrets of a spy in a red venom suit unfold...
by Ana, 826DC
A student learns an important lesson about staying calm while recounting a trip to Olive Garden that spiraled out of control!
Raven, 826 New Orleans
You guessed it—an ode to cookies.
Ren, 826 New Orleans
In this poem, a student explores what summer means to them.
by Hope L.C., Age 10, 826DC
A silly story about dragon fruits -- no wait, fruit dragons!
by Natalia, 826CHI
A story told by her grandfather leads Betty on a journey where fiction and reality collide.
by Kevin J. Ortiz, 826DC
A personal narrative about a trip to Ocean City, a lonely puppy, and sharing our fears with others.
by Liliana, 826DC
This student’s heartbreaking personal narrative describes what it can feel like to have your parents get divorced.
by Quinn, 826CHI
A piece that explores the dynamic nature of love and might just become your next Valentine's Day card.
by Kayla, 826LA
This author reflects on an act of kindness to someone in need.
by Marisa, 826michigan
A series of tweets about an adventurous cat named Marcus. #SuperCat #Meow
by Athena, 826NYC
An "I Am From" superhero persona poem.
Dylan Sanderson, Grade 5, 826NYC
A student dreams of the most joyful place in the world--somewhere with their family and money!
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 Elaine, 826 Boston
A diary entry reflecting on a secret mission to Mars!
by Elian de Leon, 826NYC
A poem that focuses on color and translates it into sensory details.
by Talia, 826NYC
A creative field guide to Sea Lettuce.
by Antoni L., 826DC
In this poem, the author discusses their origins through metaphor.
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 Alexa, 826michigan
A poem that tastes like pepperoni pizza.
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.
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 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 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 Jaceon B., Grade 4, 826 New Orleans
A student describes their butter covered imaginary friend.
by Hanako M., Age 10, 826michigan
A "sense"-sational poem about the flowers in their yard.
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 Angel Flores Vazquez, 826 Valencia
This poem illustrates the effectiveness of descriptive language.
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 Marisa, 826NYC
A student reports on Islamophobia, using research and interviews to explore this mindset and its damaging repercussions.
by Joshua, 826CHI
Alien monsters and a young boy forge a friendship over a dramatic series of events.
Elsie, 826 New Orleans
In this poem, a student celebrates individuality.
by Caleigh, 826LA
A letter offering a concise yet compelling list of all that awaits in LA.
by Olivia, 826NYC
An elegy for corn.
by Zari P., Grade 4, 826DC
A playful "I am" poem that explores what's possible.
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 Camila R.G., Grade 4, 826LA
In this letter, a student asks the next U.S. President to help the homeless.
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 Madison, 826 New Orleans
This poem leaves the reader descriptive clues to help them guess the mystery food.
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.
Vivien Norton, Age 12, 826michigan
A poet explores their love for writing with their friend.
by Keila, 826michigan
An "I A From" poem. English and Spanish versions included.
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 Giannyl Guerrero Cabral, 826 Boston
A practical list of ways anyone can stop bullying.
by Kayamaghi, 826NYC
A lab experiment goes wrong and a humble scientist must save Superhero Land from a super speedy villain!
by Uma, 826NYC
A witty set of foolproof pickup lines.
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