Grades 5–6
Fantasy/SciFi, NarrativeWritingElaine is grateful for her home and her lovely family. She especially loves playing peek-a-boo with her one-year-old nephew. She hopes to graduate from college with a degree in forensic psychology, and to have a stable, professional job, like an FBI agent.
*Found 3/10/2500: NASA Headquarters, Loseville, Kansas*
Day 1, 3/9/2500
A space station in the United States of America sent a team to find life on Mars. I was a member of this team, and I will tell you what happened.
We were getting close, and I could see the Red Planet. I was scared of finding life on Mars, but if we didn’t, the United States would have to colonize another planet. As I was walking on the surface, I turned back to look at our spaceship. I hadn’t realized how tall it was until I walked out of it.
Suddenly, I met aliens and I felt scared. I will describe them so that if you become an astronaut and fly to Mars, you are aware.
The aliens were ugly and green with big gigantic ears and without noses. They were smushy and fat. We thought that they had neither hair nor speech.
We learned that they were officers of the Mars police force. They carried us inside a cave and into an apartment as big as a submarine.
The windows of all the apartments were huge because they didn’t have any doors. Another alien knocked on one of the windows, and then entered. The aliens spoke gibberish to one another. Oh! I almost forgot—they smelled like two-week-old expired milk.
The officers took us to see the queen and king of Mars. The king and queen had no fancy way of talking; they spoke the same gibberish. They executed us by eating us.
Wait, I’m surprised; how am I even writing? It must be because the aliens have telepathic powers and read my final thoughts. The alien that is reading my mind can send my thoughts all over the universe. Hopefully NASA got my thoughts, too, and is holding them in the Thoughtcatcher 3000.
*Found 3/11/2500: Heathy Heart Hospital, Loseville, Kansas*
Day 2, 3/10/2500
I just woke up in a hospital in California. I can see a balcony in my suite. The floor is grayish-black marble, and there are two windows to my right. I see a Jacuzzi and tons of different shampoos.
I realize that NASA made me a new body from cells in a lab. They caught my thoughts and personality and put them in my new body. I feel sweaty. I am so surprised they were able to do that.
I am worried because NASA will ask me to keep what happened on Mars a secret. I can’t believe that I survived the aliens. If NASA asks me to bring those aliens home to Earth, I will decline.
I want to talk the director of NASA into never sending a human to Mars again, ever. If I get to keep my job, I want them to send me to Saturn instead. Mars is not safe for me or anyone.
Wait, I hear a knock on my hospital room door. A deep, smooth voice says my name from outside the door: “Ms. Lauren?” I think it’s the director of NASA! I wonder what he wants from me.
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Inspired by Jeff Kinney’s Diary of a Wimpy Kid series, and with a foreword by the author, students from 826 Boston's after-school program get creative with this collection of diary entries from across time and space. Each entry is written and illustrated with student comics, and each copy of the book comes with a free temporary tattoo (supplies are limited!).
by Ivan Newton Ponce, 826 Valencia
This poem uses sensory details to describe the writer's favorite places.
by Kathryn, 826NYC
A very scientific origin poem about french fries, starting with an argument between the sun and the moon.
by Salimatou, 826NYC
Together, a princess with superpowers and an orphan-turned-sidekick must save the king and queen of kingdom Atarica!
by Guinevre, 826CHI
A persuasive letter with a few ideas on how to improve cafeteria lunches at school.
by Natalia, 826CHI
A story told by her grandfather leads Betty on a journey where fiction and reality collide.
by Charm R., Grade 5, 826 New Orleans
This poem tells the story of a courageous little bird.
by K.M., 826DC
In this piece, a student describes the challenges of being a superhero and reflects on their power to shine.
Elsie, 826 New Orleans
In this poem, a student celebrates individuality.
by Uma, 826NYC
A witty set of foolproof pickup lines.
by Wayne Gillyard, 826 Valencia
This poem shares the writer's love of all things yellow.
by Andres Santisteban-Perez, age 12, 826 Valencia
When playing video games night turned into a nightmare.
by Marisa, 826michigan
A series of tweets about an adventurous cat named Marcus. #SuperCat #Meow
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 Jacore, 826 Valencia
An intriguing and educational essay discussing environmental consciousness and the devastating effects of global warming.
by Jeffrey, 826DC
In this "I Wish" poem, written in both Spanish and English, a student dreams of a more colorful world.
by Sumaya, 826 MSP
This poem uses analogies to describe different objects the writer would like to be.
by Claire Leiva, Grade 6, 826michigan
A poem about the writer's favorite animal--corgis!
by Kaitlyn, 826NYC
A creation myth reimagined in a poem.
by Penelope, 826 Valencia
In this superhero story, Super Duper Scarlet must save San Fran Superland from Doctor Nefario!
by Jin, 826LA
This student says thank you to her Mom, her hero, for a life full love and beef noodles!
by Sophia, 826CHI
In this poem, a student makes some noise about resilience and beating the odds.
by Oscar, 826CHI
The story of a lifetime—literally.
by Felix E., 826 Valencia
A student's fear is conquered after a startling discovery.
by Reyes, 826NYC
A creative field guide to the eastern gray squirrel.
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 Juna, 826michigan
A poem about taking the world in—and letting go.
by Isabella, 826CHI
A student describes a scrumptious five-course meal—everything except the vegetables, that is!
by Krisbel D.L.M., Grade 6, 826 Valencia
A letter to the next President asking them to support immigration laws that will allow them to see their family.
by Ximena Torres, Age 9, 826 Valencia
A poem about the lessons your family can teach you.
by Ayana A., Grade 6, 826NYC
by Jekaya, 826 Boston
A student reflects on what it takes to stand up to bullies and speak up for others.
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.
Dylan Sanderson, Grade 5, 826NYC
A student dreams of the most joyful place in the world--somewhere with their family and money!
by Kyle I., Grade 6, Kansas City, MO
A gender-fluid student's call to action to the next U.S. president to protect LGBTQIA+ rights.
by Marco, 826LA
A screenplay about a plane crash and an epic journey to Mexico, with a twist!
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 Yarely, 826michigan
A poem about grandma. English and Spanish versions included.
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 Liliana, 826DC
This student’s heartbreaking personal narrative describes what it can feel like to have your parents get divorced.
by Claire, 826CHI
A poem about “unfinding” what was known and learning to explore.
by Lyric White, age 10, 826 Valencia
A magical mountain quest to save a mermaid.
Roberto Misael Aguilera, Age 9, 826 Valencia
Discover the fearful T-Rex Koala--koala by day, monster by night!
Nur Schlenker, Age 10, 826 Valencia
A student paints two images, one of Halloween night, and the second of home.
by Zari P., Grade 4, 826DC
A playful "I am" poem that explores what's possible.
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.
A writer's fake news article about a miracle drug that can cure anything.
A writer's fake news article about a miracle drug that can cure anything.
Vivien Norton, Age 12, 826michigan
A poet explores their love for writing with their friend.
by Meredith, 826michigan
A poem about globe-sized dreams.
by Robert, 826CHI
A poem that explores the struggles of mine workers.
by Camilla S.R., Grade 5, 826 Valencia
A student describes her imaginary friend from Funky Town.
by Naomi, 826michigan
A (mostly) love letter to a kiwi with delicious imagery.
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 Olivia, 826NYC
An elegy for corn.
by Mady, 826 Valencia
A student examines the mermaid industry today through a historical lens that begins in the late-nineteenth century, turning fantasy into a profession.
by Jalen, 826NYC
A series of superhero haiku inspired by engineering secret lairs.
by Leslie, 826NYC
In this imaginative narrative about food justice, Golden Girl and LoLo go up against the evil Chemical Bug so kids everywhere can eat healthy fruits and vegetables.
by Charlotte, 826CHI
A collection of haikus spanning sushi to surviving the sixth grade.
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 Lina, 826 Valencia
A mischievous recipe calling for 3 tablespoons of candy, 10 gallons of not laughing, and 100 gallons of mother.
by Pearl L., Age 10, 826DC
A story about Rory the dragon, the defender of all genders.
Dominick Contreras Rodriguez, age 9, 826 Valencia
A student traces his identity through food and family.
by Walter Linares, Age 11, 826 Valencia
The secrets of a spy in a red venom suit unfold...
by Dahlia-Rose, 826NYC
A field guide to Queen Anne’s Lace and a day in the life from a flower’s perspective.
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 Valary K., Grade 6, 826 MSP
A story about a mysterious tunnel that leaves you on the edge of your seat!
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.
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 Salma, Grade 5, 826 Boston
A student reminds herself of the many ways she shines
by Mohamed F., 826 MSP
This poem uses descriptive language to leave the reader clues about the animal it is depicting.
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 Elena Chambers, 826michigan
Thinking of Cherry Coke lip gloss, community, and dancing, this narrator celebrates life from their front stoop.
by Victor, 826 Valencia
This student gives thanks to ordinary objects in an ode.
by Marvin, Grade 5, 826CHI
A troubled ghost haunts a boy’s dreams.
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 Smila H., Age 10, 826LA
A powerful acrostic poem that shares an encouraging message.
by Brigid, 826CHI
A poem about facing fear—and learning how to shine.
by Gael, 826CHI
A short but powerful poem about the circular nature of history.
by Robert, 826CHI
A collection of haikus spanning books and cosmology.
by Chelsea, 826NYC
An academically-inclined student passes on their favorite tips for having fun before fifth grade starts.
by Najah, Grade 6, 826 MSP
A student appreciates and reflects on her mother's kindness over the years.
by Alondra, 826CHI
An epic story of a princess who seeks acceptance among the stars.
by Abdinasir, 826 MSP
This poem shares what someone might experience on Halloween.
by Khari Garris, New York, NY
A student remembers what life was like before the COVID-19 pandemic, and imagines a brighter day when schools reopen.
by Luis, 826LA
This student writes a letter to a hero with a sweet double kick: Jackie Chan!
by Winta, 826DC
A concise but essential list of survival tips in the event of a sweet disaster.
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 Talia, 826NYC
A creative field guide to Sea Lettuce.
Jaylin Guevarro, Grade 6, 826NYC
A poet admires their loved one through this warming ode.
by Eric, 826CHI
This student recounts a fictional chat with George Washington about the American Revolution over a meal.
by Simone, 826michigan
A poem about appreciating trees and why we should study them.
by Keila S.O., 826michigan
An “I Am From” poem about growing up in Detroit.
by Kaiya S., Grade 6, 826DC
The harrowing tale of a super spy student vs. the villainous Mr.X.
by Maia Sears, 826michigan
This student describes exciting things the future will bring, like elevators that can reach space!
by Athena, 826NYC
In this poem, a student explores both the seen and unseen powers of a superhero.
by Kevin, 826NYC
A wizened middle schooler offers the benefits of sixth grade to younger readers, sprinkling in a few tips to survive and thrive in their year ahead.
by Elsy, 826LA
Song lyrics about memories of cake and pizza, friendship, and giving 1,000 opinions.
by Evelyn Escamilla, 826 Valencia
This poem uses metaphors and similes to describe happiness.
by Lux, 826NYC
A student reflects on their experiences with bullying and how they’ll take a stand in the future.
by Norah, Grade 5, 826DC
A student describes her mystical worm imaginary friend.
by Kayla, 826LA
This author reflects on an act of kindness to someone in need.
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 Marie, 826CHI
A monkey named Chesley saves the animals of the forest from an evil Master!
by Giovanna, 826NYC
An informative how-to on using a pen that can manipulate time and space.
by Joseline, 826DC
A personal narrative about a teensie, tiny bit of jealousy for a new baby sister turning into love.
by Aiden Spence, Grade 3, 826NYC
This poem describes all of the reasons why green is the best color.
by Keila, 826michigan
An "I A From" poem. English and Spanish versions included.
by John, 826NYC
A creative commentary on food justice in which Digestive Man defends local farms from Corn Boy and the Factory Farmers!
by Kayamaghi, 826NYC
A lab experiment goes wrong and a humble scientist must save Superhero Land from a super speedy villain!
by Kelis, 826NYC
On the planet Mars, Zoe must defeat the supervillain Zygorn to avenge her family! Wait—was it all a dream?
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 Satis, 826 Valencia
A student argues for the importance of transgender rights in response to current events.
by Natalie, 826 Valencia
A recipe for how to create a legendary rapper.
by Ari, 826CHI
In the Realm of Virtues, a search for attention and significance teaches these characters an important lesson about what it means to be human!
by Jack, Grade 5, 826 New Orleans
In this transcript, a student shares three clear actions to stand up to bullies.
by Joshua, 826CHI
Alien monsters and a young boy forge a friendship over a dramatic series of events.
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 Jesús, 826 Valencia
In this superhero story, Spyman is on an important mission—saving donuts from becoming bagels!
by Daphne, 826 Valencia
A girl named Chloe embarks on a heroic mission after discovering a new super-identity: Fluffy Justice!
Jerieliz Garcia & Jaiden Vinti, 826NYC
Two poets braid together their reflections on where they come from.
by Chelsea, 826NYC
A creative field guide to Daddy Longlegs.
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 Janelle Suazo, age 12, 826 Valencia
A school dare gone horribly wrong!
by Faisa Y., Grade 6, 826MSP
A student describes their comfort fairy imaginary friend.
by Jaceon B., Grade 4, 826 New Orleans
A student describes their butter covered imaginary friend.
by Gael, 826CHI
A poem about becoming a dancer.
by Milo, 826NYC
A creative origin story in which a programmer simultaneously creates life and biology in a program.
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 Kevin J. Ortiz, 826DC
A personal narrative about a trip to Ocean City, a lonely puppy, and sharing our fears with others.
by Marisol, 826michigan
A young girl's poem about all the life she sees in her yard. English and Spanish versions included.
by Violeta, 826CHI
A monster's routine trip for tuna sandwich ingredients results in a broken arm!
by Erriyanna, 826michigan
An epic poem about a younger sister. English and Spanish versions included.
Raquel Campos, Age 10, 826 Valencia
Three friends, inspired by a stream of butterflies, bake a beautiful cake.
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 Hope L.C., Age 10, 826DC
A silly story about dragon fruits -- no wait, fruit dragons!
by Caira N., Grade 5, 826NYC
A student lists all the reasons why her school is the best!
by Charlotte, 826CHI
A poem about spring!
by Victor, 826 Valencia
An ode to Beans, Rice, and Chicken.
by Saeed, 826NYC
Food justice advocacy is reimagined by this student as an epic battle rages between Nutriman, Captain Nutritional, and Junkster in a school cafeteria!
by Charlie, 826michigan
A very scientific retelling of why dinosaurs went extinct.
by Hanako M., Age 10, 826michigan
A "sense"-sational poem about the flowers in their yard.
by Marisa, 826NYC
A student reports on Islamophobia, using research and interviews to explore this mindset and its damaging repercussions.
by Jose Martin Gomez, 826 Valencia
This poem celebrates a special person in the writer's life.
by Armaan, 826CHI
This author recounts the beginning of a family tradition: the best homemade sandwich ever!
by Angelina Do, Grade 6, 826 Valencia
A poem about living in the space between two cultures.
by Destiny, 826NYC
In this poem, a student contrasts conflicting perspectives on the construction of the Dakota Access Pipeline.
by Kevin, 826LA
A letter from the author to the author on appreciating both the unconventional and conventional parts of oneself.
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 Khloe Fewster, 826 Valencia
This poem uses repetition to give advice for when you're feeling unsure of yourself.
by Emmanuel, 826DC
A personal narrative about a tender first sighting between brothers on a family trip to El Salvador.
Perla Ortega, Age 9, 826 Valencia
A poet sweetly appreciates a teacher for her kindness.
by Renee, 826NYC
A poem that explores all that a tree can stand for.
by Dy’Stonie V., Grade 5, 826 New Orleans
A poem that highlights the bond between grandparent, grandchild, and a sweet perfume.
by Uma Cantone, 826NYC
Ever wonder what would happen if the sky fell? This student uses metaphor to explore new beginnings.
by Luana Anticona Nolasco, age 10, 826 Valencia
An eerie encounter with a shapeshifter after a grocery run.
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 Harrison, 826michigan
A recursive poem that helps students explore the potential connections between math fractals and verse.
by Angel Flores Vazquez, 826 Valencia
This poem illustrates the effectiveness of descriptive language.
by Christian, 826michigan
In this resolution inspired by the "Include Someone" lesson and Cartoon Network storyboard, we learn that sometimes the easiest way to make someone feel included is by lending a hand.
by Kenneth Vasquez, Age 10, 826 Valencia
A student reflects on their love of soccer.
by Ehmely, 826CHI
A crucial missive for anyone playing a high-stakes game of "Hide and Seek".
by Amaya, 826michigan
A letter devoted to a favorite fruit that’s sweet and sour just like this student’s favorite candy: Sour Patch Kids!
by Athena, 826NYC
An "I Am From" superhero persona poem.
by Girod, 826 New Orleans
This celebratory poem uses similes to list all of the things the writer loves about themself.
by Maria, 826 Valencia
This student gives thanks to ordinary objects in an ode.
by Javier, 826DC
A student wishes for unexpected pops of color.
by Yasmeen Whitney, Age 9, 826 Valencia
This poem declares a student's love for snow globes!
by Madison, 826 New Orleans
This poem leaves the reader descriptive clues to help them guess the mystery food.
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