Grade 8
Memoir, NarrativeWritingThere was a day that made me how I am today. It was a day I will never forget because I learned an important life lesson, and my perspective on this world changed forever. I remember vividly what happened on that day. It has been seared into my mind ever since. It was the day I learned, “Just because you are unique does not mean you are useful or special.”
Two years ago, on a scorching summer day, fluffy snow-white clouds floated listlessly in the soothing blue sky like giant sheep. The blazing sun shone through the sky, giving off a warm and gentle light. It was a normal and peaceful afternoon, just like any other day. Our class was doing social studies, and we were learning about the Segregation Era. The Segregation Era was when Jim Crow laws ruled the land, removing justice and equality for people.
During this era, many races were being discriminated against, especially the African-American race. They were being discriminated against not because they committed crimes or because they were terrorists, but only because their skin color was different. Long before the Segregation Era, Africans were captured as slaves. This caused the African-American race to be thought of as inferior beings. In the Segregation Era, they got old and poor supplies and services. There were barely any differences between the races. The only visible difference was their skin color, and this little difference caused the Segregation Era. I was shocked by this. The humanity that I was once proud of was nothing but a cover. Under the cover was the abhorrent truth where humans pillage each other to fulfill their own greed.
After I learned about the Segregation Era, I also learned the life lesson of “Just because you are unique, it doesn’t mean that you are useful or special.” Before, I thought this world was a peaceful and loving world, but now I realize this world and humans are dreadful. I became pessimistic. I learned the truth, and this life lesson completely changed my perspective on life, on this world, and on humanity.
by Elizabeth W., 826 Valencia
A persuasive piece for women and girls to unite and cultivate a culture of body image positivity.
by Dayana Alvarado, 826CHI
A student shares finding home in two places: Mexico and Chicago.
by Natalie, 826CHI
Weaving together Spanish and English, a student shares the discovery of a family secret.
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 Tylor, 826NYC
A lean but essential checklist for readers to determine if they are awake.
by Evelyn Escamilla, Grade 8, 826 Valencia
This poem uses metaphors and similes to describe happiness.
by Judethan Garfias Muñoz, Grade 8, 826 Valencia
This loving poem uses descriptive language to pay tribute to the writer's family.
by Arianny, 826 Boston
A student reflects on the beauty, flavors, and pride of being Latino.
by Emmanuel J., 826NYC
An avid basketball fan discusses the rise of the Golden State Warriors through its individual players.
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 Marco, 826LA
A screenplay about a plane crash and an epic journey to Mexico, with a twist!
by Iliana, 826CHI
A student searches for answers in their community.
by David, 826CHI
A student writes about the smell, taste, and pace of their neighborhood.
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 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 David & Daniel, 826CHI
In this heartfelt exchange of letters, two students bond over food, videos games, and some scary adventures.
by Inge S., Age 13, 826CHI
Part riddle, part observations, this poem leaves the reader with big things to think about.
Jerieliz Garcia & Jaiden Vinti, 826NYC
Two poets braid together their reflections on where they come from.
by Rafael, 826CHI
A student remembers an afternoon adventure around town and explores what Chicago and community mean to him.
Amara, 826 New Orleans
An ode celebrating an important figure in this student’s life.
by Lola, 826 Valencia
A poem that portrays the arc of a love story told through the gift of a cigarette lighter.
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 Xaria, 826 Valencia
An argument against the wage gap that prevails in the U.S. and across the globe.
by Caroline, 826 Valencia
A student explores U.S. soccer player Megan Rapinoe’s decision to kneel in protest during the national anthem.
by Arielle B., Grade 8
This poem invites readers to remember that people are often going through more than choose to show.
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 Jazmine & Vanessa, 826CHI
Over a series of letters, two compassionate and resilient students develop a deep friendship sealed in writing.
by Charlotte, 826CHI
A poem about spring!
by Sebastian Cendejas, 826CHI
A student reflects on how much Chicago means to them.
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 Calvin, 826michigan
A student professes love—to a jalapeño!
by Laila, 826CHI
A memoir about losing a parent—and a community’s support.
by Brigid, 826CHI
A poem about facing fear—and learning how to shine.
by Eva, 826 Valencia
A student celebrates the journey of discovering whom to love.
by Sian Laing
When Instagram becomes an unsightly battlefield.
by Yvanna Bodiana, Age 13, 826 Valencia
A reflection on freedom and Black resilience in the face of opposition.
by Byanna & Kayla, 826CHI
Two students across one city bond by writing letters to each other about the people they love most.
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 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 Johnny Vasquez, 826 MSP
A family interview reveals a mother's painful past and shines a light on her persistence.
by Jeff, 826CHI
In this piece, a student describes Christmas as a holiday best spent together.
by Andy, 826CHI
In this memoir, a few friends bond over a rare Pokémon Go catch.
by Anjum, 826CHI
A shout-out poem to some things missed (Hyderabad) and celebrated (Mom).
by Elsy, 826LA
Song lyrics about memories of cake and pizza, friendship, and giving 1,000 opinions.
by Luis, 826LA
This student writes a letter to a hero with a sweet double kick: Jackie Chan!
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 V.G., 826LA
A poem that muses on the purpose of borders in question and answer format.
by Alondra, 826CHI
An epic story of a princess who seeks acceptance among the stars.
by Victor, 826CHI
An epic memoir about an epic volleyball match! Who will win: the teachers or the students?
by Jabari, Grade 8, 826 Valencia
A poem about wanting more from life.
by Kiara, 826CHI
In this personal narrative, a student explores growing up young and black in Chicago.
by Cora B., Grade 8
This narrative uses nature imagery, to help the reader walk through a day in the speaker's shoes
by Cayden, 826DC
This poem lists all of the pieces that make up the writer's whole.
by Sharon, 826CHI
A memoir about finding true friendship.
by Lesly, 826 Valencia
A sports poem about the losing blues.
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 Mya, 826CHI
A piece packed with vivid description about taking risks at an ice rink.
by Isabella C., Age 13, 826 Valencia
The misadventures of finding a missing wallet.
by Diego, 826CHI
On the funniest day of this student’s life…
by Khloe Fewster, 826 Valencia
This poem uses repetition to give advice for when you're feeling unsure of yourself.
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 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 Sara Sofia Becerra L., Age 14, 826 Valencia
This poem shares the writer's love for music with the world.
by Jack, 826 Valencia
An argument against the overconsumption of sugar outlines the ways its effects are anything but sweet.
by Shayne Williams
Discover what one student experiences when they tuck their phone away for a whole day.
by Vivian, 826CHI
A narrative about loving to run—and learning to never quit!
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 Kaitlyn, 826NYC
A middle school student firmly protests the flavor and quality of her school’s lunches.
by Angel, 826CHI
A student writes about the transformative experience of changing schools.
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 Curtis, 826michigan
A rhyming (inverse) ode to a very irritating noise.
by Jamie, 826 Valencia
A metaphorical poem about frustrations, from homework to homelessness.
by Duanté, 826 Valencia
A personal narrative about race and identity.
by Anonymous, Grade 8, 826 Boston
In this poem from the 826 National anthology, Poets in Revolt!, a student reflects on identity.
by Fahima Dahir, 826 MSP
A poem about the strength and limitations of language and shared culture.
by Renée, 826NYC
A persuasive letter detailing to the recipient the pointlessness of writing a persuasive letter. A helpful example for reluctant writers.
by Djeneba Soumaoro, 826michigan
A student’s manifesto!
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 Kevin, 826NYC
An informational briefing on a horrible incident in the year 5176 that changed the hoverboarding industry forever.
by Chelsea, 826NYC
An acrostic poem about the Black Lives Matter movement.
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 Blanca Estrada, Age 14, 826 Valencia
This poem explores all of sides of a tender heart.
by Jason, 826michigan
Making bottle flipping look like child's play, this piece outlines rules for the new, competitive Fantasy Sport "Pencils".
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 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 Christian Z., Age 14, 826 Valencia
A poet recounts his day out at the Yerba Buena Gardens.
by Salome Maldonando, 826CHI
A poem about unrequited love.
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