Grades 9–12
NarrativeWritingHe gets up from his bed, navigating through the Barbie dolls and makeup sets that he left on the floor. He was Barbie’s makeup artist yesterday, and today he’ll be her hairdresser; at least that’s what he’s planning. There’s not one day where he neglects his dolls after school. Right after he finishes his homework, it’s off to play pretend, to remove himself from reality and be what he wants to be.
He goes to the bathroom, brushes his teeth, looks at himself in the mirror, and thinks: I wish my hair were longer. I wish my eyelashes were longer, too. He pouts and continues to get ready for another day of school, another day where the world revolves around him. He truly is the definition of being the center of attention.
His place in middle school is the celebrity that nobody likes; however, he’s still successful. He’s unforgettable, everyone is talking about him, and he’s extremely rich. Rich in confidence, in pride. That is him. He may be one of the youngest in his grade, but he has already turned more heads in the last few months than the eighth grade’s basketball team captain turned in three years. And today, he will do it again. He doesn’t plan to, but he will.
“Marcus? Are you ready for school?” His mom calls him down. He’s already dressed, and as his accessory, he is wearing the biggest smile you’ll ever see. Marcus makes his way down the stairs, wishing his mom could see the outfit he has put together today. She has no idea what her son is wearing or what he looks like, but she knows who he is. She hears what her son says quietly under his breath. She hears the way he talks. She hears him crying when he can’t get a hairstyle right. The sound of the styling gel container popping open and the combs falling
into the sink. She notices all these things about her son, and she still loves him. The son she gave birth to eleven years ago, the one she held in her hands with so much love and happiness. There’s nothing her son could ever do that would make her lose that feeling.
“Mama, I’m more than ready,” Marcus says, tippy-toeing with excitement.
His mother’s eyes are directed straight ahead. She’s not sure if she’s looking at her son or a wall. Her hands guide her down from his shoulders to his shirt and then to a piece of fabric, something from her childhood that she recognizes. She recognizes the three buttons on the front, the two deep pockets on the side, and the cutoff at the bottom with the soft lining.
“My skirt, Marcus,” she whispers in a breathy voice. “My pink skirt… you’re wearing it.”
He nods proudly.
“My pink skirt?” He asks, hoping that his mother will agree to his proposal.
“Yes, my love. It’s yours,” she laughs emotionally, sniffling her nose and caressing what she knows is her son’s cheek. “Anything that’s mine is yours.”
Marcus’s arms wrap themselves around his mother’s waist, gripping her with gratitude and affection. Her hands meet his head, and she kisses him on his forehead.
“My pink skirt,” Marcus repeats happily to himself.
After that moment with his mom, he says goodbye, getting ready to board the school bus outside the house. His head is held up high. Nothing you could say to him would affect him. He’s the protagonist, and we’re the extras.
The bus driver, Mr. Campbell, is quick to shoot Marcus a look of pity, but Marcus beams at him, says “good morning,” and walks to his seat. He already knows that everyone on that bus is looking at him, but he feels the same—positive and optimistic, completely unfazed.
The girls laugh at his outfit, even though they’d most likely wear it themselves. The boys call him gay and weird, even though they have no idea about Marcus’ sexual orientation. Still, Marcus feels like a shooting star, speeding through the aisle and stealing the attention of everyone around him whether they are mesmerized or not.
He sits alone in the back of the bus, peeking at the girl sitting across from him. She’s not alone, but she sits on the aisle side of the seat, one leg folded on top of the other.
Marcus copies her and does the same. The girl doesn’t notice him staring at her; she might be one of the prettiest girls he’s ever seen. He loves her long hair, her eyelashes, and her toned face. He feels guilty for noticing how physically mature the girl is at a young age, but he only admires her beauty for a long enough time until (for the first time in a long time) he starts to feel just a little pessimistic about himself.
Marcus stops looking at the girl and stares at his lap, sighing deeply. He comes to the realization that he doesn’t look like this girl, he doesn’t sound like this girl, and—looking at the tag on her bookbag—he would never have the same name as this girl.
But he remembers: Nothing is impossible. Never say never.
The bus starts to move, and he lays his head against the window, watching a flock of birds in the sky fly by. His lips curl on the side, and he almost lets out a chuckle; even though the birds fly together, they are individually free to fly anywhere.
One day, he thinks to himself. One day, they’ll be calling me something else. One day, Mama will help me change my name.
And when he finally thinks of one, he grins.
When the bus finally stops at school, Marcus is the last to get up from his seat and depart. Mr. Campbell twitches his eyebrow, somewhat bothered that he can’t get to the kid.
“What is it, Marcus? Am I going to have to deal with this little whim of yours each time I drive you to school?” Mr. Campbell knows what he says is a risk and that he can lose his job for harassing his students. It’s not a problem with Marcus, however. He holds an invisible shield that Mr. Campbell always bounces off of.
“Marcela,” Marcus corrects him, eyeing him with the same charming grin from before. “Call me Marcela.”
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 Sian Laing
When Instagram becomes an unsightly battlefield.
by Junaynah R., Grade 11, 826NYC
Full of exquisite imagery, this poem explores the idea of second chances.
by Kalyn Jackson, 826 New Orleans
Through this short story, Kalyn explores ideas of home and change in an altered world.
by Nhu N., Grade 12, 826 Boston
A young writer reconciles their sexuality with the beliefs of their community.
by Samuel Wang, Grade 10, 826NYC
A poem about the complexity of love exchanged during the holidays.
by Jason, 826michigan
Making bottle flipping look like child's play, this piece outlines rules for the new, competitive Fantasy Sport "Pencils".
by Numan Khan, age 16, 826 Boston
A bilingual "I am" poem filled with conviction and courage.
by Steysi Hailee, 826LA
A student reflects on a small moment and single sacrifice that transformed her outlook on giving.
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 Sabrin, Grade 10, 826 MSP
The written word is a powerful tool, and this poem shares a few reasons why the author continues to write.
by Oriel, 826NYC
In this poem, an echoing question strikes a chord and reveals the tragic loss held within systemic injustice.
by Jesus Sanchez, The 826 Dallas Project
This creative short horror piece explores the mysteries and danger of a night in the woods.
by Vanessa Ramon-Ibarra, 826DC
Living in the digital world can create unwanted attachments, as one student laments.
by Rockelle Rodd, Grade 11, 826NYC
This poem uses analogies to describe all of the pieces of the writer's personal history.
by Lizy A., 15, 826DC
Lizy describes her name as a promise of freedom and beauty connected to the sea and family, with unique meanings at school and at home.
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 Jahruwach Hamilton, Grade 10, 826NYC
In this rousing poem, a student asserts her strength and worth as a woman.
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 Camille, 826LA
A student finds her wings in unexpected places in this piece about the transition to college.
by Tina N., Grade 12, 826 Boston
A student describes their shark like imaginary friend.
by Kayla, 826 Boston
This poem offers a very-real answer to "What do you want to be when you grow up?"
by Kayla Wayne, Grade 11, 826NYC
In this poem, a student reflects on their first encounter with forced assimilation.
by Fahima Dahir, 826 MSP
A poem about the strength and limitations of language and shared culture.
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 Sarah X., Grade 12, 826 Boston
A student shares how they've uplifted their community.
by Aphra, 826CHI
A student considers realistic happy endings and the representation of LGBTQIA+ youth through the analysis of two webcomics.
Alex P., Grade 10, 826 National
A poem to the next president of the U.S. demanding change and advocating for transgender rights.
by Abner L., 17, 826DC
Abner explores the meaning of his name through color, joy, strength, and heritage, connecting it to culture, family, and faith.
by Olivia H., 826CHI
A piece that explores the connection between stars, legacy, and Black resilience.
by Yojannie Pizarro, Age 17, 826 Boston
This poem explores the beauty of friendship.
by Soraya, 826NYC
This student’s powerful piece reveals the essence of racial injustice.
by Abby S., Grade 11, 826 Boston
An author reflects on their correspondence with their friend from the past.
by Anonymous, Grade 8, 826 Boston
In this poem from the 826 National anthology, Poets in Revolt!, a student reflects on identity.
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.
Yashasa Fluker, Grade 9, 826 New Orleans
A student describes the eeriness of liminal spaces.
by Johnny Vasquez, 826 MSP
A family interview reveals a mother's painful past and shines a light on her persistence.
by Leydi Di Villanueva, The 826 Dallas Project
This creative narrative imagines how the coronavirus views humanity during the pandemic.
by Byanna & Kayla, 826CHI
Two students across one city bond by writing letters to each other about the people they love most.
by Ryker, 826michigan
Liner notes that showcase the meaning and musicality of the Jimmy Ruffin song “What Becomes of the Brokenhearted.”
by Rey, Grade 9, 826 MSP
Aliens give this student superpowers to help him fulfill his greatest dream.
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 Elsy M.E., Grade 11, 826 Valencia
A poet imagines a better and more harmonious world.
by Rowan Yordy, Grade 11, 826michigan
This poem uses imagery to describe a small moment of joy.
by Terra C., Grades 10-11, 826NYC
A student recalls their journey on how they discovered their LGBTQIA+ identity.
Kenya G., 17, 826LA
A poet relates her experience as a queer woman in the closet to a peacock in the zoo.
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 Mercury, 826CHI
A student explores the representation of LGBTQIA+ minorities and youth in US pop culture.
by Denisse Reyes Gonzalez, Age 17, 826NYC
Using metaphors, this bilingual poem explores the idea of lost love.
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 Sergio M, 826 Valencia
This piece reminds us that a smile is not always what it seems.
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 Cristina, 826CHI
A student recounts separation with a beloved friend through a nostalgic lens.
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 Lukoiy V.R.G., Grade 12, Woodburn, OR
A poet speaks out as a voice for change and all those who cannot speak.
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 Quran Samad, age 15, 826 Valencia
A young Black student's perspective on how it feels to grow up Black in the United States.
by Kevin G, 826 Valencia
This narrative calls us to see the world through the perspectives of others.
by Cindy, 826LA
A student compellingly argues that immigrants deserve respect and to be free of discrimination.
Cate H, Grade 12, 826CHI
A poet sets the stage to showcase her reflections on being trans.
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 Tyler, Grade 11, 826DC
In this powerful letter to the United States Congress, this student stands up for representation of young people in government.
by Augustus Griffith Jr., 826 National
From the 826 National anthology, Poets in Revolt!, this poem explores the aftermath and lasting impacts of school shootings.
by Shayne Williams
Discover what one student experiences when they tuck their phone away for a whole day.
by Sally Phan, 826 Boston
A memoir that questions the idea of home and how it changes with time.
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 Izzy T., 826 Valencia
A student reflects on memories of home and what binds her special community together.
by Raymond A., Grade 10, 826 Boston
A bilingual poem that expresses the love of one's culture and people.
by Maggie Munday Odom, Kailua, HI
This poem personifies Earth as a mother coping with the brutalities of climate change.
by Jeremy Hsiao, 826 National
From the 826 National anthology, Poets in Revolt!, this poem reminds activists that "to change everything, we need everyone."
by Elizabeth W, 826 Valencia
Even though we may look different, we remain united with one another.
by Pretty S, 826 Valencia
Peek into the mind of a student who considers artistic influences in her life.
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.
by Kaleo V.C., Age 17, 826 Valencia
A student looks back on their first day of kindergarten and how they've changed.
by Julianna Cruz, 826 Dallas Project
This narrative piece contemplates the struggle of immigrants during the pandemic.
by Maya M., Grade 11, Newburg, OR
A student reflects on the memories they made while backpacking.
by Chris O., Age 15, 826 Valencia
A freshman describes their first day of school on their own.
by Henry F., Grade 12, 826CHI
In this poem, a student reflects on identity.
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 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 Franny, 826CHI
A student spins through space and a treasure trove of memories in this poem.
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 Albin C., Age 18, 826 Boston
A student recalls how he was able to take charge and turn his life around.
by Timothy T., Age 17, 826 Valencia
A student tells the story of how his family has influenced his life.
by Jordan, 826 New Orleans
Crawfish, crayfish, or mudbugs. Whatever you call them, the writer of this poem doesn't like them.
by Jazmine & Vanessa, 826CHI
Over a series of letters, two compassionate and resilient students develop a deep friendship sealed in writing.
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 Yazmine-Gizelle, 826DC
This poem uses a fundamental poetry technique, repetition, to share the writer's future plans.
by Amalia O'Brien, Grade 10, Novato, CA
A letter to the future Madame President of the United States.
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 Isabella, 826NYC
This poet rejects judgement based on the color of one’s skin.
by Riti Shrestha, 826NYC
In this poem, metaphor is used to describe who the narrator is.
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 Joanne H, 826 Valencia
In this poem, a student’s experiences in two countries meld together as she seeks out her true home.
by Michaiah Anderson, The 826 Dallas Project
In this poem, a student describes their family origins with an intimate point of view
by Jennifer Alcocer, The 826 Dallas Project
This personal narrative addresses the struggles of students graduating high school during the pandemic.
by Jazlyn Moses, 826 National
One student explores their online persona and the lasting importance of conscientious social media practices.
by Karina Centeno, Grade 12, 826 Dallas Project
This poem takes an honest look at two sides of the writer's culture.
by Anjum, 826CHI
A shout-out poem to some things missed (Hyderabad) and celebrated (Mom).
by Jose S., 15, 826DC
Jose’s name means lord of the world, filled with warmth and joy. At school he’s Jose, at home Bladimir, showing how his name carries both family roots and personal power.
by Earl Williams Jr., The 826 Dallas Project
A powerful poetic piece about the experience of being Black in America.
by Colin Y., Age 17, 826 Valencia
A student describes how volunteering saved him from his online prison.
by Charles, 826 MSP
A student reflects on his life, stemming from the life of his father.
by Aniah, 826 MSP
A student is lifted up by the dance of her ancestors.
by Jonas K., 826 National
A student explores the paradox of how technology is used amongst teenagers.
by Perla C., 15, 826DC
Perla connects her name to the sea, summer, and soft colors. It reflects her quiet strength, curiosity, and the different identities she carries at school and home.
by Brandon R., 826LA
A student recounts the epic highs and lows of high school track and cross country.
by Caroline, 826 Valencia
A student explores U.S. soccer player Megan Rapinoe’s decision to kneel in protest during the national anthem.
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.
Henry F., Grade 12, 826CHI
A trans student reflects on their desire to be male.
Amara, 826 New Orleans
An ode celebrating an important figure in this student’s life.
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 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 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 Samantha Wint, Grade 9, 826 Valencia
This poem uses metaphors and similes to explore many dualities of the narrator's life.
by Arianna R., Grade 11, 826 Boston
A beautiful ode to home and self.
by Jesus C., Grade 12, 826LA
A poet identifies with a trapped ocelot at the zoo.
by Raheem, 826 New Orleans
A student compares themself to the place they live, New Orleans, as both evolve through great obstacles.
by Lucas Hu, 826 Boston
A poem about staying true to yourself during a challenging transition
by Emmerson Todd, Grade 11, Novato High School, Novato, CA
This list poem shares tips to manage the anxiety that can come along with making a phone call.
by Salma Khalif, 826 MSP
A powerful poem that lifts up Black women.
by Jasmine J, 826 Valencia
A student reflects on her origins to deconstruct social borders and seize her boundless future.
by Keyshana, Grade 11, 826CHI
Black strength, beauty, and pride soar in this poem as a student discusses overcoming brutality and discrimination.
Yamilet J., 826LA
A student reflects on the fear and wonder of becoming a mother.
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.
by Alphonsine M., 826LA
A student reflects on the journey and struggle of growing in the face of adversity.
by Ricardo L., age 15, 826DC
Ricardo’s name carries strength and emotion, tied to bravery, heat, and a sad color, with playful and personal versions at school and home.
by Tammy Fong, 826NYC
A soccer-filled, feud-fueled memoir.
by Manuel C., 17, 826DC
Manuel sees his name as joyful and strong, linked to faith, fun, and his favorite characters, with two names that reflect who he is at home and at school.
by Sylvia C., 826 Valencia
A poet demonstrates their devotion to love.
by Christian Z., Age 14, 826 Valencia
A poet recounts his day out at the Yerba Buena Gardens.
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 Jizelle Villegas, Grade 12, 826 Dallas Project
The stunning and vulnerable poem processes feelings of loss, grief, and hope for the future.
by Bianca Morcho, 826 MSP
A personal essay that explores the different shades of the Black Lives Matter movement.
by Jarmani M., Age 18, 826 Boston
Jarmani reflects on the pain of being rejected from his top high school, but through that challenge, he finds motivation. He grows more focused, disciplined, and driven to succeed in all areas.
by Alanis T., Age 17, 826 Boston
A student reflects on how her relationship's with her parents has influenced her life.
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 Daniela Martinez, Grade 12, 826 Boston
A poem exploring an electric, freeing moment shared on the dance floor.
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.
by Jana C., 826LA
A celebration of self and exploration of core values.
Rosman A., age 18, 826CHI
Smells swirl about a student walking around an ice cream shop.
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 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 Justis Porter, age 16, 826 Boston
A neighborhood ode filled with sights and sounds of the poet's street.
by Melody Marcano, 826 Boston
In this poem, a student reflects on their roots and their desire to grow.
Virginia Walker, age 18, 826 Boston
A student writes to a grandfather she never met.
We are thrilled to have you as the newest member of our online community. Stay up-to-date on the the latest and most relevant resources, student publication opportunities, and what’s new with the 826 Digital community.
bookmark
download
Share