Grades 5–6
Memoir, NarrativeWritingEmmanuel has lived in Washington, DC for the past decade. He is eleven years old. His favorite things to do are play soccer and exercise. When he gets older he wants to be a soccer player or be in the military. He lives with his dad, mom, and three brothers. His favorite book is The Giver and his favorite movie is Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets.
One morning, I heard a motorcycle turn on and a rooster singing so that everybody could wake up. I jumped out of my bed because I’m a light sleeper, and I did my morning routine. My room was so clean that I didn’t need to worry about it. So I brushed my teeth, took a shower, and changed my clothes.
When I went outside, it was so hot that an ice cream would melt in ten seconds. I overheard my parents and aunt whispering. I felt left out because they always tell me where they are going, or what they are planning. At the same time, I thought it wasn’t important, so I went to feed the chicken and rooster to entertain myself.
Two hours later, my dad and my aunt’s husband left and didn’t say where they were going. I started to get worried like a parent looking for his lost child. I couldn’t stop thinking about where they were. I ate to distract myself. I was in the middle of the stairs when I thought, “What if something happened to them? What if they got lost?” I blinked twice, and the bad thinking went away.
I saw my mom and aunt cooking, and I asked, “Can I eat some?”
“Sure,” said my mom.
While I was eating, my mom and aunt went downstairs. At first it was silent but, five minutes later, I heard people laughing. My older brother came running and told me, “Come downstairs fast as a jaguar.”
As I was going downstairs, I saw that my dad’s eyes were watery, and I asked him, “What happened?”
“Nothing, I’m just happy,” he told me and pointed to a young man.
I looked at the young man’s face. When I saw his face clearly, I remembered something. Two weeks before I went to El Salvador, my parents showed me a picture of him and told me he was my older stepbrother. I was so happy that I wanted to cry for joy, but I was strong. It was my first time meeting him. I hugged him. I told him a lot of things, but the best thing I told him was, “We finally see each other, brother.”
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From 826DC, what if how you see yourself is not how the world sees you? Inspired by socially charged photojournalism and mentor texts that include Junot Diaz and Claudia Rankine, students spanning ages ten to sixteen tackle questions about who they are and the world they live in. Having to Tell Your Mother Is the Hardest Part is a collection of personal narratives that encompasses the fears, dreams, and hopes of young writers, ranging from concerns about immigration to soccer tournament victories to a community that unites after an earthquake to the story behind a name, as well as critical responses to the 2016 United States presidential election. Filled with joy and sadness, young writers reflect on the encounters between themselves and the world around them, musing over misunderstandings and broken connections, and parsing out the meaning of identity in a multicultural and multilingual world.
by Jesús, 826 Valencia
In this superhero story, Spyman is on an important mission—saving donuts from becoming bagels!
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 Janelle Suazo, age 12, 826 Valencia
A school dare gone horribly wrong!
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 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 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.
by Ivan Newton Ponce, 826 Valencia
This poem uses sensory details to describe the writer's favorite places.
Dylan Sanderson, Grade 5, 826NYC
A student dreams of the most joyful place in the world--somewhere with their family and money!
by Elsy, 826LA
Song lyrics about memories of cake and pizza, friendship, and giving 1,000 opinions.
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 Violeta, 826CHI
A monster's routine trip for tuna sandwich ingredients results in a broken arm!
by Yasmeen Whitney, Age 9, 826 Valencia
This poem declares a student's love for snow globes!
by Marisa, 826michigan
A series of tweets about an adventurous cat named Marcus. #SuperCat #Meow
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 Angelina Do, Grade 6, 826 Valencia
A poem about living in the space between two cultures.
by Ehmely, 826CHI
A crucial missive for anyone playing a high-stakes game of "Hide and Seek".
by Jacore, 826 Valencia
An intriguing and educational essay discussing environmental consciousness and the devastating effects of global warming.
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 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 Talia, 826NYC
A creative field guide to Sea Lettuce.
by Ayana A., Grade 6, 826NYC
A student describes their fuzzy imaginary friend.
by Aiden Spence, Grade 3, 826NYC
This poem describes all of the reasons why green is the best color.
by Gael, 826CHI
A poem about becoming a dancer.
by Guinevre, 826CHI
A persuasive letter with a few ideas on how to improve cafeteria lunches at school.
by Kevin J. Ortiz, 826DC
A personal narrative about a trip to Ocean City, a lonely puppy, and sharing our fears with others.
by Eric, 826CHI
This student recounts a fictional chat with George Washington about the American Revolution over a meal.
by Oscar, 826CHI
The story of a lifetime—literally.
by Caira N., Grade 5, 826NYC
A student lists all the reasons why her school is the best!
by Daphne, 826 Valencia
A girl named Chloe embarks on a heroic mission after discovering a new super-identity: Fluffy Justice!
by K.M., 826DC
In this piece, a student describes the challenges of being a superhero and reflects on their power to shine.
by Khloe Fewster, 826 Valencia
This poem uses repetition to give advice for when you're feeling unsure of yourself.
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 Olivia, 826NYC
An elegy for corn.
by Charlotte, 826CHI
A collection of haikus spanning sushi to surviving the sixth grade.
by Robert, 826CHI
A poem that explores the struggles of mine workers.
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 Javier, 826DC
A student wishes for unexpected pops of color.
Nur Schlenker, Age 10, 826 Valencia
A student paints two images, one of Halloween night, and the second of home.
by Charm R., Grade 5, 826 New Orleans
This poem tells the story of a courageous little bird.
by Erriyanna, 826michigan
An epic poem about a younger sister. English and Spanish versions included.
by Sumaya, 826 MSP
This poem uses analogies to describe different objects the writer would like to be.
by Kelis, 826NYC
On the planet Mars, Zoe must defeat the supervillain Zygorn to avenge her family! Wait—was it all a dream?
by Felix E., 826 Valencia
A student's fear is conquered after a startling discovery.
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 Gael, 826CHI
A short but powerful poem about the circular nature of history.
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 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 Marvin, Grade 5, 826CHI
A troubled ghost haunts a boy’s dreams.
by Elaine, 826 Boston
A diary entry reflecting on a secret mission to Mars!
by Charlie, 826michigan
A very scientific retelling of why dinosaurs went extinct.
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 Meredith, 826michigan
A poem about globe-sized dreams.
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 Satis, 826 Valencia
A student argues for the importance of transgender rights in response to current events.
Jaylin Guevarro, Grade 6, 826NYC
A poet admires their loved one through this warming ode.
by Uma Cantone, 826NYC
Ever wonder what would happen if the sky fell? This student uses metaphor to explore new beginnings.
by Milo, 826NYC
A creative origin story in which a programmer simultaneously creates life and biology in a program.
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 Kayla, 826LA
This author reflects on an act of kindness to someone in need.
by Jalen, 826NYC
A series of superhero haiku inspired by engineering secret lairs.
by Girod, 826 New Orleans
This celebratory poem uses similes to list all of the things the writer loves about themself.
by Claire, 826CHI
A poem about “unfinding” what was known and learning to explore.
by Reyes, 826NYC
A creative field guide to the eastern gray squirrel.
by Joseline, 826DC
A personal narrative about a teensie, tiny bit of jealousy for a new baby sister turning into love.
by Jin, 826LA
This student says thank you to her Mom, her hero, for a life full love and beef noodles!
by Kaiya S., Grade 6, 826DC
The harrowing tale of a super spy student vs. the villainous Mr.X.
Raquel Campos, Age 10, 826 Valencia
Three friends, inspired by a stream of butterflies, bake a beautiful cake.
by Kaitlyn, 826NYC
A creation myth reimagined in a poem.
by Carolyn Danielle Wong, Age 9, 826 Valencia
In this poem, the writer showcases self-love and joy.
by Andres Santisteban-Perez, age 12, 826 Valencia
When playing video games night turned into a nightmare.
by Maria, 826 Valencia
This student gives thanks to ordinary objects in an ode.
by Faisa Y., Grade 6, 826MSP
A student describes their comfort fairy imaginary friend.
by Natalie, 826 Valencia
A recipe for how to create a legendary rapper.
by Keila, 826michigan
An "I Am From" poem. English and Spanish versions included.
by Natalia, 826CHI
A story told by her grandfather leads Betty on a journey where fiction and reality collide.
by Kathryn, 826NYC
A very scientific origin poem about french fries, starting with an argument between the sun and the moon.
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 Madison, 826 New Orleans
This poem leaves the reader descriptive clues to help them guess the mystery food.
by Jeffrey, 826DC
In this "I Wish" poem, written in both Spanish and English, a student dreams of a more colorful world.
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 Jose Martin Gomez, 826 Valencia
This poem celebrates a special person in the writer's life.
by Ximena Torres, Age 9, 826 Valencia
A poem about the lessons your family can teach you.
by Charlotte, 826CHI
A poem about spring!
by Kenneth Vasquez, Age 10, 826 Valencia
A student reflects on their love of soccer.
by Claire Leiva, Grade 6, 826michigan
A poem about the writer's favorite animal—corgis!
by Victor, 826 Valencia
This student gives thanks to ordinary objects in an ode.
by Smila H., Age 10, 826LA
A powerful acrostic poem that shares an encouraging message.
by Wayne Gillyard, 826 Valencia
This poem shares the writer's love of all things yellow.
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 Jack, Grade 5, 826 New Orleans
In this transcript, a student shares three clear actions to stand up to bullies.
by Dy’Stonie V., Grade 5, 826 New Orleans
A poem that highlights the bond between grandparent, grandchild, and a sweet perfume.
by Abdinasir, 826 MSP
This poem shares what someone might experience on Halloween.
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!
Jerieliz Garcia & Jaiden Vinti, 826NYC
Two poets braid together their reflections on where they come from.
Roberto Misael Aguilera, Age 9, 826 Valencia
Discover the fearful T-Rex Koala--koala by day, monster by night!
by Harrison, 826michigan
A recursive poem that helps students explore the potential connections between math fractals and verse.
by Brigid, 826CHI
A poem about facing fear—and learning how to shine.
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 Robert, 826CHI
A collection of haikus spanning books and cosmology.
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 Penelope, 826 Valencia
In this superhero story, Super Duper Scarlet must save San Fran Superland from Doctor Nefario!
by Lux, 826NYC
A student reflects on their experiences with bullying and how they’ll take a stand in the future.
by Simone, 826michigan
A poem about appreciating trees and why we should study them.
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 Marisa, 826NYC
A student reports on Islamophobia, using research and interviews to explore this mindset and its damaging repercussions.
by Marco, 826LA
A screenplay about a plane crash and an epic journey to Mexico, with a twist!
by Kayamaghi, 826NYC
A lab experiment goes wrong and a humble scientist must save Superhero Land from a super speedy villain!
by Hanako M., Age 10, 826michigan
A "sense"-sational poem about the flowers in their yard.
by Norah, Grade 5, 826DC
A student describes her mystical worm imaginary friend.
by Athena, 826NYC
In this poem, a student explores both the seen and unseen powers of a superhero.
by Destiny, 826NYC
In this poem, a student contrasts conflicting perspectives on the construction of the Dakota Access Pipeline.
by Alyssa, Kevin, Gustavo, Jocelyn, and Gabriel, 826LA
In science class, Victoria the Manticore makes fun of Carla the Witch for using magic, and a few bystanders step in to take a stand against bullying.
by Lyric White, age 10, 826 Valencia
A magical mountain quest to save a mermaid.
by Pearl L., Age 10, 826DC
A story about Rory the dragon, the defender of all genders.
by Kevin, 826LA
A letter from the author to the author on appreciating both the unconventional and conventional parts of oneself.
Elsie, 826 New Orleans
In this poem, a student celebrates individuality.
by Dahlia-Rose, 826NYC
A field guide to Queen Anne’s Lace and a day in the life from a flower’s perspective.
by Salma, Grade 5, 826 Boston
A student reminds herself of the many ways she shines
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 Giovanna, 826NYC
An informative how-to on using a pen that can manipulate time and space.
by Liliana, 826DC
This student’s heartbreaking personal narrative describes what it can feel like to have your parents get divorced.
by Chelsea, 826NYC
A creative field guide to Daddy Longlegs.
by Luana Anticona Nolasco, age 10, 826 Valencia
An eerie encounter with a shapeshifter after a grocery run.
by Armaan, 826CHI
This author recounts the beginning of a family tradition: the best homemade sandwich ever!
by Luis, 826LA
This student writes a letter to a hero with a sweet double kick: Jackie Chan!
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 Chelsea, 826NYC
An academically-inclined student passes on their favorite tips for having fun before fifth grade starts.
by Hope L.C., Age 10, 826DC
A silly story about dragon fruits -- no wait, fruit dragons!
by Ramatoulie, 826DC
A student shares memories of transitioning from Gambia to a new home in the United States, complete with a snowy encounter.
Dominick Contreras Rodriguez, age 9, 826 Valencia
A student traces his identity through food and family.
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 Valary K., Grade 6, 826 MSP
A story about a mysterious tunnel that leaves you on the edge of your seat!
by Juna, 826michigan
A poem about taking the world in—and letting go.
by Najah, Grade 6, 826 MSP
A student appreciates and reflects on her mother's kindness over the years.
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 Salimatou, 826NYC
Together, a princess with superpowers and an orphan-turned-sidekick must save the king and queen of kingdom Atarica!
by Yarely, 826michigan
A poem about grandma. English and Spanish versions included.
by Marisol, 826michigan
A young girl's poem about all the life she sees in her yard. 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 Isabella, 826CHI
A student describes a scrumptious five-course meal—everything except the vegetables, that is!
by Elena Chambers, 826michigan
Thinking of Cherry Coke lip gloss, community, and dancing, this narrator celebrates life from their front stoop.
by Winta, 826DC
A concise but essential list of survival tips in the event of a sweet disaster.
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 Victor, 826 Valencia
An ode to Beans, Rice, and Chicken.
by Maia Sears, 826michigan
This student describes exciting things the future will bring, like elevators that can reach space!
by Uma, 826NYC
A witty set of foolproof pickup lines.
by Jaceon B., Grade 4, 826 New Orleans
A student describes their butter covered imaginary friend.
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 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!
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 Naomi, 826michigan
A (mostly) love letter to a kiwi with delicious imagery.
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 Joshua, 826CHI
Alien monsters and a young boy forge a friendship over a dramatic series of events.
by Sophia, 826CHI
In this poem, a student makes some noise about resilience and beating the odds.
Vivien Norton, Age 12, 826michigan
A poet explores their love for writing with their friend.
by Walter Linares, Age 11, 826 Valencia
The secrets of a spy in a red venom suit unfold...
by Marie, 826CHI
A monkey named Chesley saves the animals of the forest from an evil Master!
by Lina, 826 Valencia
A mischievous recipe calling for 3 tablespoons of candy, 10 gallons of not laughing, and 100 gallons of mother.
by Angel Flores Vazquez, 826 Valencia
This poem illustrates the effectiveness of descriptive language.
by Evelyn Escamilla, 826 Valencia
This poem uses metaphors and similes to describe happiness.
by Jekaya, 826 Boston
A student reflects on what it takes to stand up to bullies and speak up for others.
by Keila S.O., 826michigan
An “I Am From” poem about growing up in Detroit.
by Alondra, 826CHI
An epic story of a princess who seeks acceptance among the stars.
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 Mohamed F., 826 MSP
This poem uses descriptive language to leave the reader clues about the animal it is depicting.
by Camilla S.R., Grade 5, 826 Valencia
A student describes her imaginary friend from Funky Town.
by Athena, 826NYC
An "I Am From" superhero persona poem.
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