Grades 7–12
NarrativeWritingMy mother’s words burden me.
My mother’s name is Maria Vasquez and this is her story. Once my mom told me to sit down and hear what she had to say, I knew in my mind at least part of her life had to be painful to hear. She told me that she found a job at the age of 8 in Ecuador, where she grew up in a two-story house she had to clean and cook 24/7. Her boss paid her well and let her sleep in a room. She saved up her money her whole life and she enjoyed her job making tamales, cooking, cleaning. It was hard work for her. But also she told me that she didn’t have a mother or father, but she had a sister. Her sister took care of her and she taught my mother how to clean but the sister died right before she found a job. This hurt her so much but was able to focus on work and she cried all the time.
My mother’s words burden me when my mother finished talking about how hard she worked when she was a kid. She talked about the people she lost. She lost her father and mother in an accident and they were the only family members my mom had during the time when she was a kid. Her sister taught her many things and also disciplined her and helped her in a way. But then her sister died unexpectedly and she was left alone with no father, no mother, not even a sister, but she pulled through it. Then when she was in her late 30s, she got married to a person I didn’t know. She loved him so much they even had a cat, a house, and everything but then everything changed. Her husband died in a car crash and she was alone again then she was forced to put the cat up for adoption because she couldn’t take care of it anymore. She lost her job and she felt hopeless so she crossed the U.S.A. border for a new life.
by Cristeta Boarini, 826 MSP
Students will identify something they have inherited from their families, conduct interviews, and write a narrative essay. This lesson is…
by Isabella, 826NYC
This poet rejects judgement based on the color of one’s skin.
Antonia O., Age 17, 826LA
A young writer's ode to her mother's resilience and hard work.
by Franny, 826CHI
A student spins through space and a treasure trove of memories in this poem.
by Inge S., Age 13, 826CHI
Part riddle, part observations, this poem leaves the reader with big things to think about.
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 Angel, 826CHI
A student writes about the transformative experience of changing schools.
by Judethan Garfias Muñoz, Grade 8, 826 Valencia
This loving poem uses descriptive language to pay tribute to the writer's family.
by the Class of 640 at M.S. 88, 826NYC
This bilingual poem shares an excellent recipe for how to survive middle school.
by Blanca Estrada, Age 14, 826 Valencia
This poem explores all of sides of a tender heart.
by Issa Caothien, 826NYC
In this resolution inspired by the "Include Someone" lesson and Cartoon Network storyboard, we learn that if you work together, you're golden!
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 Jiyu Kim, Grade 7, Union Middle School, San Jose, CA
This poem shares the beautiful things that can happen when doubt fades away.
by Wayne Gillyard, 826 Valencia
This poem shares the writer's love of all things yellow.
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 Alisson Romero, Grade 11, 826LA
The author of this poignant piece expresses her love and gratitude for her hardworking and supportive parents.
by Diego, 826CHI
On the funniest day of this student’s life…
by Jazmine & Vanessa, 826CHI
Over a series of letters, two compassionate and resilient students develop a deep friendship sealed in writing.
by Dayana Alvarado, 826CHI
A student shares finding home in two places: Mexico and Chicago.
by Lucas Hu, 826 Boston
A poem about staying true to yourself during a challenging transition
by Khloe Fewster, 826 Valencia
This poem uses repetition to give advice for when you're feeling unsure of yourself.
by Tina N., Grade 12, 826 Boston
A student describes their shark like imaginary friend.
by Kalyn Jackson, 826 New Orleans
Through this short story, Kalyn explores ideas of home and change in an altered world.
by Oriel, 826NYC
In this poem, an echoing question strikes a chord and reveals the tragic loss held within systemic injustice.
by Harrison, 826michigan
A recursive poem that helps students explore the potential connections between math fractals and verse.
by Andy, 826CHI
In this memoir, a few friends bond over a rare Pokémon Go catch.
by Sebastian Cendejas, 826CHI
A student reflects on how much Chicago means to them.
by Kaitlyn, 826NYC
A middle school student firmly protests the flavor and quality of her school’s lunches.
by Justis Porter, age 16, 826 Boston
A neighborhood ode filled with sights and sounds of the poet's street.
by Riti Shrestha, 826NYC
In this poem, metaphor is used to describe who the narrator is.
by Xaria, 826 Valencia
An argument against the wage gap that prevails in the U.S. and across the globe.
by Jamie, 826 Valencia
A metaphorical poem about frustrations, from homework to homelessness.
by Christian Z., Age 14, 826 Valencia
A poet recounts his day out at the Yerba Buena Gardens.
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 826 National anthology, Poets in Revolt!, this poem reminds activists that "to change everything, we need everyone."
by Rowan Yordy, Grade 11, 826michigan
This poem uses imagery to describe a small moment of joy.
by Jesus C., Grade 12, 826LA
A poet identifies with a trapped ocelot at the zoo.
by Karla Amayo, 826LA
This bilingual poem describes the happiness and comfort of visiting family in Mexico.
by Jordan, 826 New Orleans
Crawfish, crayfish, or mudbugs. Whatever you call them, the writer of this poem doesn't like them.
by David & Daniel, 826CHI
In this heartfelt exchange of letters, two students bond over food, videos games, and some scary adventures.
by Salma Khalif, 826 MSP
A powerful poem that lifts up Black women.
by Evelyn Escamilla, Grade 8, 826 Valencia
This poem uses metaphors and similes to describe happiness.
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?
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.
by Cristina, 826CHI
A student recounts separation with a beloved friend through a nostalgic lens.
by Jason, 826michigan
Making bottle flipping look like child's play, this piece outlines rules for the new, competitive Fantasy Sport "Pencils".
by Camille, 826LA
A student finds her wings in unexpected places in this piece about the transition to college.
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 Arianna R., Grade 11, 826 Boston
A beautiful ode to home and self.
by Numan Khan, age 16, 826 Boston
A bilingual "I am" poem filled with conviction and courage.
Cate H, Grade 12, 826CHI
A poet sets the stage to showcase her reflections on being trans.
by Nhu N., Grade 12, 826 Boston
A young writer reconciles their sexuality with the beliefs of their community.
by Laila, 826CHI
A memoir about losing a parent—and a community’s support.
by Lukoiy, Grade 12, Woodburn, OR
A poet speaks out as a voice for change and all those who cannot speak.
by Aniah, 826 MSP
A student is lifted up by the dance of her ancestors.
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 Lesly, 826 Valencia
A sports poem about the losing blues.
Rosman A., age 18, 826CHI
Smells swirl about a student walking around an ice cream shop.
by Arielle B., Grade 8
This poem invites readers to remember that people are often going through more than choose to show.
by Henry F., Grade 12, 826CHI
In this poem, a student reflects on identity.
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 Sahir M., Grade 7
This poem uses metaphors to describe who the speaker really is.
Yamilet J., 826LA
A student reflects on the fear and wonder of becoming a mother.
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 Vanessa Ramon-Ibarra, 826DC
Living in the digital world can create unwanted attachments, as one student laments.
Amara, 826 New Orleans
An ode celebrating an important figure in this student’s life.
by Albin C., Age 18, 826 Boston
A student recalls how he was able to take charge and turn his life around.
by Cayden, Grade 8, 826DC
This poem lists all of the pieces that make up the writer's whole.
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 Kayla, 826 Boston
This poem offers a very-real answer to "What do you want to be when you grow up?"
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 Kevin G, 826 Valencia
This narrative calls us to see the world through the perspectives of others.
by Charlotte, 826CHI
A poem about spring!
by Sarah X., Grade 12, 826 Boston
A student shares how they've uplifted their community.
by Claire Leiva, Grade 6, 826michigan
A poem about the writer's favorite animal—corgis!
by Jazlyn Moses, 826 National
One student explores their online persona and the lasting importance of conscientious social media practices.
by Jahruwach Hamilton, Grade 10, 826NYC
In this rousing poem, a student asserts her strength and worth as a woman.
by Abby S., Grade 11, 826 Boston
An author reflects on their correspondence with their friend from the past.
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 Alondra, 826CHI
An epic story of a princess who seeks acceptance among the stars.
by Anthony, 826DC
This poem gives insight to what it's like growing up Black in America.
by Yojannie Pizarro, Age 17, 826 Boston
This poem explores the beauty of friendship.
by Fahima Dahir, 826 MSP
A poem about the strength and limitations of language and shared culture.
by Andres Santisteban-Perez, age 12, 826 Valencia
When playing video games one night turned into a nightmare.
by Yazmine-Gizelle, 826DC
This poem uses a fundamental poetry technique, repetition, to share the writer's future plans.
by Cindy, 826LA
A student compellingly argues that immigrants deserve respect and to be free of discrimination.
by Luis, 826LA
This student writes a letter to a hero with a sweet double kick: Jackie Chan!
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 Michaiah Anderson, The 826 Dallas Project
In this poem, a student describes their family origins with an intimate point of view
by Angel, 826CHI
Several friends harness a new source of energy and develop superpowers—with a surprise ending! Both Spanish and English versions available.
by Vivian, 826CHI
A narrative about loving to run—and learning to never quit!
Lyric M., Grade 9, 826 New Orleans
A student describes how the bright sun and a calming tree bring her peace.
Henry F., Grade 12, 826CHI
A trans student reflects on their desire to be male.
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 Ava Diaz, Grade 10, Woodburn, OR
A guiding light for all those who wander...
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 Samantha Wint, Grade 9, 826 Valencia
This poem uses metaphors and similes to explore many dualities of the narrator's life.
by Giovanna, 826NYC
An informative how-to on using a pen that can manipulate time and space.
by Kaleo V.C., Age 17, 826 Valencia
A student looks back on their first day of kindergarten and how they've changed.
by V.G., 826LA
A poem that muses on the purpose of borders in question and answer format.
by Maya M., Grade 11, Newburg, OR
A student reflects on the memories they made while backpacking.
by Isabella Serrato, Grade 7, 826 Dallas Project
This poem uses sound devices to enhance the overall tone.
by Jazlin Lopez, Grade 10, Woodburn, OR
This poet draws strength and courage from her grandmother's love.
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 Jennifer Alcocer, The 826 Dallas Project
This personal narrative addresses the struggles of students graduating high school during the pandemic.
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 Uma Cantone, 826NYC
Ever wonder what would happen if the sky fell? This student uses metaphor to explore new beginnings.
by Elizabeth W, 826 Valencia
Even though we may look different, we remain united with one another.
by Xiaoqing Cai, Grade 10, Greenbelt, MD
This dystopian sci-fi story reflects the issues and fears of today.
by Samuel Wang, Grade 10, 826NYC
A poem about the complexity of love exchanged during the holidays.
by Keyshana, Grade 11, 826CHI
Black strength, beauty, and pride soar in this poem as a student discusses overcoming brutality and discrimination.
by Mia Pereyra, 826 Boston
A powerful poem about taking pride in being bilingual.
by Victor, 826CHI
An epic memoir about an epic volleyball match! Who will win: the teachers or the students?
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.
Tariq C., Age 19, 826 Boston
A poet critiques the violent oppression of Africa and African people.
by Rey, Grade 9, 826 MSP
Aliens give this student superpowers to help him fulfill his greatest dream.
by Jabari, Grade 8, 826 Valencia
A poem about wanting more from life.
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 Charles, 826 MSP
A student reflects on his life, stemming from the life of his father.
Annasian Walters, Grade 11-12, 826NYC
A student explores gratitude and love through sharing food.
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 Curtis, 826michigan
A rhyming (inverse) ode to a very irritating noise.
by Jizelle Villegas, Grade 12, 826 Dallas Project
The stunning and vulnerable poem processes feelings of loss, grief, and hope for the future.
Trinity L., Grade 11, 826 New Orleans
A poet explores the warmth and safety they feel with their love.
by Ibrahim, Grade 7, 826 MSP
In this letter from the Essential Words lesson, 7th grader Ibrahim thanks Nurses for the heart and soul they put into caring for their patients and fighting disease.
by Chelsea, 826NYC
An acrostic poem about the Black Lives Matter movement.
by Jeff, 826CHI
In this piece, a student describes Christmas as a holiday best spent together.
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 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 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 Aphra, 826CHI
A student considers realistic happy endings and the representation of LGBTQIA+ youth through the analysis of two webcomics.
by Renee, 826NYC
A poem about a place where ideas can grow.
by Gisel J., 826LA
The power of public speaking shines through this student's memoir.
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 Satis, 826 Valencia
A student argues for the importance of transgender rights in response to current events.
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 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 Arianny, 826 Boston
A student reflects on the beauty, flavors, and pride of being Latino.
Sizwe H., Age 13, 826michigan
A poet appreciates their loyal riding partner.
Hanna D. P., Age 15, 826 Valencia
Our names are part of our identities--what happens when we can't claim them?
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 Terra C., Grades 10-11, 826NYC
A student recalls their journey on how they discovered their LGBTQIA+ identity.
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 Melody Marcano, 826 Boston
In this poem, a student reflects on their roots and their desire to grow.
by Anjum, 826CHI
A shout-out poem to some things missed (Hyderabad) and celebrated (Mom).
by Destiny, 826NYC
In this poem, a student contrasts conflicting perspectives on the construction of the Dakota Access Pipeline.
by Daniela Martinez, Grade 12, 826 Boston
A poem exploring an electric, freeing moment shared on the dance floor.
by Caroline, 826 Valencia
A student explores U.S. soccer player Megan Rapinoe’s decision to kneel in protest during the national anthem.
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 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 Chris O., Age 15, 826 Valencia
A freshman describes their first day of school on their own.
by Salvador M., Grade 7, 826DC
A peaceful reflection on what type of place a student would be.
by Colin Y., Age 17, 826 Valencia
A student describes how volunteering saved him from his online prison.
by Mateo, 826CHI
An informative entry on the meaning and usage of a student-inspired word: doomungous.
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.
Talea W., Age 18, 826 Valencia
A poet imagines their identity and Blackness through the heat of summer.
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 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 Jin, 826LA
This student says thank you to her Mom, her hero, for a life full love and beef noodles!
by Lola, 826 Valencia
A poem that portrays the arc of a love story told through the gift of a cigarette lighter.
by Bianca Morcho, 826 MSP
A personal essay that explores the different shades of the Black Lives Matter movement.
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.
Virginia Walker, age 18, 826 Boston
A student writes to a grandfather she never met.
by Tylor, 826NYC
A lean but essential checklist for readers to determine if they are awake.
by Liana H., 826LA
The author of this piece shares her journey to feeling confident in her Salvadorean identity.
by Brigid, 826CHI
A poem about facing fear—and learning how to shine.
by Earl Williams Jr., The 826 Dallas Project
A powerful poetic piece about the experience of being Black in America.
by Madison, 826CHI
In this compelling essay, a student rejects apathy and explores what really matters in conversations about solving gun violence towards black and brown men.
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 Byanna & Kayla, 826CHI
Two students across one city bond by writing letters to each other about the people they love most.
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 Isabel, 826 Boston
From the 826 National anthology, Poets in Revolt!, this poem features a student battling with the voices constricting her freedom.
by Leydi Di Villanueva, The 826 Dallas Project
This creative narrative imagines how the coronavirus views humanity during the pandemic.
by Sian Laing
When Instagram becomes an unsightly battlefield.
by Calvin, 826michigan
A student professes love—to a jalapeño!
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 Izzy T., 826 Valencia
A student reflects on memories of home and what binds her special community together.
by Lisbeth M.F., 826NYC
A story about how Marcus becomes Marcela.
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 Salome Maldonando, 826CHI
A poem about unrequited love.
by David, 826CHI
A student writes about the smell, taste, and pace of their neighborhood.
by Eva, 826 Valencia
A student celebrates the journey of discovering whom to love.
by Duanté, 826 Valencia
A personal narrative about race and identity.
by Timothy T., Age 17, 826 Valencia
A student tells the story of how his family has influenced his life.
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 Ryker, 826michigan
Liner notes that showcase the meaning and musicality of the Jimmy Ruffin song “What Becomes of the Brokenhearted.”
by Gabby Hamelton, Grade 9, Hamilton, IL
This author learns to find community, empowerment, and joy at school.
by Julianna C. 826 Dallas Project
This narrative piece contemplates the struggle of immigrants during the pandemic.
Kaprice D., Age 15, 826 New Orleans
A writer builds love with her family through a shared special word.
by CA, Grade 7, 826CHI
A writer's honest view of who they are and their potential.
by Kiara, 826CHI
In this personal narrative, a student explores growing up young and black in Chicago.
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 Rafael, 826CHI
A student remembers an afternoon adventure around town and explores what Chicago and community mean to him.
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 Soraya, 826NYC
This student’s powerful piece reveals the essence of racial injustice.
by Chelsea, 826NYC
A creative field guide to Daddy Longlegs.
by Janeth GM, Grade 12, Woodburn, Oregon
This touching poem honors the author’s personal superhero: her mother.
by Alonso, Grade 7, 826 Boston
An insightful set of instructions for surviving seventh grade, from a recent seventh grader in Boston.
by John, 826NYC
A creative commentary on food justice in which Digestive Man defends local farms from Corn Boy and the Factory Farmers!
by Sela, 826 MSP
This poem holds big dreams for the speaker's future.
by Chidi A., Age 12, 826 Valencia
A poet hears the weight of history like music when playing basketball.
by Maggie Munday Odom, Kailua, HI
This poem personifies Earth as a mother coping with the brutalities of climate change.
by Sam, 826CHI
In this poem, a student pits mathematics against the unknown.
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 Rockelle Rodd, Grade 11, 826NYC
This poem uses analogies to describe all of the pieces of the writer's personal history.
by Elizabeth W., 826 Valencia
A persuasive piece for women and girls to unite and cultivate a culture of body image positivity.
by Sharon, 826CHI
A memoir about finding true friendship.
Mahera A., Age 12, 826CHI
What happens when the only thing two people have in common is their love for each other?
by Karla M., 826LA
A poem for lovers of love and the moon.
by Djeneba Soumaoro, 826michigan
A student’s manifesto!
by Shayne Williams
Discover what one student experiences when they tuck their phone away for a whole day.
by Jasmine J, 826 Valencia
A student reflects on her origins to deconstruct social borders and seize her boundless future.
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 Alphonsine M., 826LA
A student reflects on the journey and struggle of growing in the face of adversity.
by Karina Centeno, Grade 12, 826 Dallas Project
This poem takes an honest look at two sides of the writer's culture.
by Raheem, 826 New Orleans
A student compares themself to the place they live, New Orleans, as both evolve through great obstacles.
by Pretty S, 826 Valencia
Peek into the mind of a student who considers artistic influences in her life.
by Brandon R., 826LA
A student recounts the epic highs and lows of high school track and cross country.
by Raymond A., Grade 10, 826 Boston
A bilingual poem that expresses the love of one's culture and people.
Leenoa/LeeLee A., Age 14, 826 Valencia
A young poet laments on an unrequited love.
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 Tammy Fong, 826NYC
A soccer-filled, feud-fueled 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 Denisse Reyes Gonzalez, Age 17, 826NYC
Using metaphors, this bilingual poem explores the idea of lost love.
by Emmanuel J., 826NYC
An avid basketball fan discusses the rise of the Golden State Warriors through its individual players.
by Sharoya Bracey, 826NYC
In this memoir, the narrator recounts the struggle of being the bigger person in a very small space.
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 Janelle Suazo, age 12, 826 Valencia
A school dare gone horribly wrong!
by Kevin, 826NYC
An informational briefing on a horrible incident in the year 5176 that changed the hoverboarding industry forever.
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.
Zain L., Age 13, 826CHI
A poet fights to understand a crucial question.
by Jesus Sanchez, The 826 Dallas Project
This creative short horror piece explores the mysteries and danger of a night in the woods.
by Jeremiah Borgella, Grade 7, 826NYC
This powerful poem is a reminder that being Black is a superpower.
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 Jose Martin Gomez, 826 Valencia
This poem celebrates a special person in the writer's life.
by Jiaxi, 826CHI
A student’s worldview is forever altered after a lesson on the Segregation Era and Jim Crow.
by Renee, 826NYC
A poem that explores all that a tree can stand for.
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 Annapoorani L., Grade 7, Seattle WA
A student recounts their experience with a school shooting in a letter to the next U.S. President to reform gun control.
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 Joanne H, 826 Valencia
In this poem, a student’s experiences in two countries meld together as she seeks out her true home.
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!
Isabella V.M., Grade 11, 826NYC
A poet imagines their mother growing up and falls in love with a past and present version of their mother.
by Renée, Grade 8, 826NYC
A persuasive letter detailing to the recipient the pointlessness of writing a persuasive letter. A helpful example for reluctant writers.
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 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 Amalia O'Brien, Grade 10, Novato, CA
A letter to the future Madame President of the United States.
by Sylvia C., 826 Valencia
A poet demonstrates their devotion to love.
by Jana C., 826LA
A celebration of self and exploration of core values.
by Athena Celine Caasi, Grade 9, 826NYC, Brooklyn, NY
This poet is a tapestry, woven from threads of courage and kindness.
by Navayah, 826 MSP
Through redefining a label, a student reclaims a piece of their identity.
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 Anonymous, Grade 8, 826 Boston
In this poem from the 826 National anthology, Poets in Revolt!, a student reflects on identity.
by Iliana, 826CHI
A student searches for answers in their community.
by Yvanna Bodiana, Age 13, 826 Valencia
A reflection on freedom and Black resilience in the face of opposition.
Willa Jones, Grade 8, Salt Lake City, UT
A young author explores a memory of stimming and captures the depth of their experience in a sparkling poem: "wishing I could shift into whatever form. / UNBOUND by what society expects. Free."
by Jonas K., 826 National
A student explores the paradox of how technology is used amongst teenagers.
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 Elsy, 826LA
Song lyrics about memories of cake and pizza, friendship, and giving 1,000 opinions.
by Olivia H., 826CHI
A piece that explores the connection between stars, legacy, and Black resilience.
by Isabella C., Age 13, 826 Valencia
The misadventures of finding a missing wallet.
by Natalie, 826CHI
Weaving together Spanish and English, a student shares the discovery of a family secret.
Lukoiy, Grade 12, Woodburn, Oregon
A young student channels the voices of the people that are voiceless through the ringing music of poetry.
by Cora B., Grade 8
This narrative uses nature imagery, to help the reader walk through a day in the speaker's shoes
by Elsy M.E., Grade 11, 826 Valencia
A poet imagines a better and more harmonious world.
by Marco, 826LA
A screenplay about a plane crash and an epic journey to Mexico, with a twist!
Yashawa Fluker, Grade 9, 826 New Orleans
A student describes the eeriness of liminal spaces.
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!
Kenya G., 17, 826LA
A poet relates her experience as a queer woman in the closet to a peacock in the zoo.
Jerieliz Garcia & Jaiden Vinti, 826NYC
Two poets braid together their reflections on where they come from.
by Steysi Hailee, 826LA
A student reflects on a small moment and single sacrifice that transformed her outlook on giving.
by Asa, 826CHI
This narrator embarks on a mysterious vacation in the sky!
by Kayla Wayne, Grade 11, 826NYC
In this poem, a student reflects on their first encounter with forced assimilation.
Alex P., Grade 10, 826 National
A poem to the next president of the U.S. demanding change and advocating for transgender rights.
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 Sally Phan, 826 Boston
A memoir that questions the idea of home and how it changes with time.
by Fabian Gonzalez Rubio, Grade 12, Woodburn, Oregon
A baby Jesus doll comes to life in this whimsical story!
by Mercury, 826CHI
A student explores the representation of LGBTQIA+ minorities and youth in US pop culture.
The A.M., Grade 10, 826 Boston
A poem that shines with self-love and acceptance, from the inside out.
by Unique C., Age 15, 826 Valencia
Maya Angelou inspires this student's will to, despite everything, still rise.
by Junaynah R., Grade 11, 826NYC
Full of exquisite imagery, this poem explores the idea of second chances.
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