Marisol is a funny ten-year-old girl. She gets her ideas from her life. Marisol is a friendly girl with wonderful friends. She lives with three funny sisters that are four, seven, and eleven years old. She also lives with her parents and two little brothers that are two and three years old. She lives in Detroit, Michigan.
* * *
Marisol es una niña graciosa quien tiene diez años. Ella saca sus ideas de su vida. Marisol es una niña amable con amigos maravillosos. Vive con tres hermanas graciosas que tienen cuatro, siete y once años. Vive también con sus padres y dos hermanitos quienes tienen dos y tres años. Ella vive en Detroit, Michigan.
It smells like burned fire with
wet dog and dirt. I can see my
two German shepherds playing
in the yard.
I can see the yellow leaves
falling like snow on my
yard. I can hear the
trains blick crack, blick crack. I
can see my six cars. I
can see a helicopter in the sky.
I see leaves on the cement.
My yard with my fence and my path
filled with rocks.
I can hear the leaves
crunching when I step on
them, psclcrckps.
I can see my dad’s garage
filled with two cars.
I can see a beehive in a hole in the roof.
I feel scared the bees might sting.
I can see the barbeque covered
in ashes we used in the summer…
I remember laughing kids playing
with each other.
I remember my dad cooking
fried chicken and fries,
my dad leaves and my mom cooks,
my dad takes us on his motorcycle.
I remember my sisters,
my cousins, and I playing tag.
We ran as fast as we could. I remember
the smell of flowers and food.
I remember screaming and
shouting, talking and laughing.
I can see how yards change, years, days,
and months,
all in a time of happiness.
* * *
Huele a cenizas de fuego
con perro mojado y tierra. Puedo ver
mis dos pastores alemanes jugando
en el jardín.
Puedo ver las hojas amarillas
que se caen como nieve en el
jardín. Puedo oír las vías del
tren blic crac, blic crac. Yo
puedo ver mis seis carros. Yo
puedo ver un helicóptero en el cielo.
Veo las hojas en el cemento.
Mi jardín con una cerca y mi camino
lleno con rocas.
Puedo oír las hojas
que crujen cuando las
piso, psclcrckps.
Puedo ver el garaje de mi papá
lleno con dos carros.
Yo puedo ver un panal de abejas en un hueco en el techo.
Tengo miedo de que las abejas me piquen.
Yo puedo ver el asador cubierto
de cenizas que usamos en el verano…
Recuerdo a los niños jugando y riéndose
unos con otros.
Recuerdo a mi papá cocinando
pollo y papas fritas,
mi papá se va mientras mi mamá cocina,
mi papá nos lleva en su moto.
Yo recuerdo que mis hermanas,
mis primos y yo jugábamos a la roña.
Corrimos lo más rápido que pudimos. Recuerdo
el olor de las flores y la comida.
Recuerdo los chillidos y gritos,
las pláticas y risas.
Puedo ver como cambian los jardines, años, días
y meses,
todos en un momento de alegría.
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by Brandan Pierce, 826michigan
In this project, students explore poetry as a way of explaining and defining the world around them via the people,…
by Ximena Torres, Age 9, 826 Valencia
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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.
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This poem leaves the reader descriptive clues to help them guess the mystery food.
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A creative field guide to Sea Lettuce.
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In this poem, a student vividly recounts watching The Undertaker perform a signature chokeslam on WrestleMania. Written in Spanish and English.
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A practical list of ways anyone can stop bullying.
Raven, 826 New Orleans
You guessed it—an ode to cookies.
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An ode to Beans, Rice, and Chicken.
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A student describes their bear-y fun imaginary friend.
by Joseline, 826DC
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by Violeta, 826CHI
A monster's routine trip for tuna sandwich ingredients results in a broken arm!
by Ciaran, 826NYC
A creative field guide to a Mourning Cloak butterfly who lives in New York City.
by Naomi, 826michigan
A (mostly) love letter to a kiwi with delicious imagery.
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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 Selene Freudenberg, 826michigan
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by Erriyanna, 826michigan
An epic poem about a younger sister. English and Spanish versions included.
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 Quinn, 826CHI
A piece that explores the dynamic nature of love and might just become your next Valentine's Day card.
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An eerie encounter with a shapeshifter after a grocery run.
by Rechab T., 826DC
This poem takes a surreal approach to describing a scene.
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A poem about taking the world in—and letting go.
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This poem tells the story of a courageous little bird.
by Ana, 826DC
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by Christian, 826 New Orleans
This poem uses personification to introduce the audience to an olive and its cousin, Jeff.
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This poem celebrates and mourns a taco.
Elsie, 826 New Orleans
In this poem, a student celebrates individuality.
by Lyric White, age 10, 826 Valencia
A magical mountain quest to save a mermaid.
by Claire, 826CHI
A poem about “unfinding” what was known and learning to explore.
by Athena, 826NYC
In this poem, a student explores both the seen and unseen powers of a superhero.
by Elian de Leon, 826NYC
A poem that focuses on color and translates it into sensory details.
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 Mohamed F., 826 MSP
This poem uses descriptive language to leave the reader clues about the animal it is depicting.
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 Kaitlyn, 826NYC
A creation myth reimagined in a poem.
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This student gives thanks to ordinary objects in an ode.
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Our protagonist attempts to evade a boogieman invasion.
Perla Ortega, Age 9, 826 Valencia
A poet sweetly appreciates a teacher for her kindness.
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This student’s heartbreaking personal narrative describes what it can feel like to have your parents get divorced.
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A story told by her grandfather leads Betty on a journey where fiction and reality collide.
by Felix E., 826 Valencia
A student's fear is conquered after a startling discovery.
Nur Schlenker, Age 10, 826 Valencia
A student paints two images, one of Halloween night, and the second of home.
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A student traces his identity through food and family.
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A series of superhero haiku inspired by engineering secret lairs.
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A screenplay about a plane crash and an epic journey to Mexico, with a twist!
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A very scientific retelling of why dinosaurs went extinct.
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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 Alongkorn, 826 New Orleans
In this resolution inspired by the "Include Someone" lesson and Cartoon Network storyboard, we learn that unlike wasabi gummies, there is no expiration date for making amends.
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A creative origin story in which a programmer simultaneously creates life and biology in a program.
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In this resolution inspired by the "Include Someone" lesson and Cartoon Network storyboard, we learn how a thoughtful surprise can brighten a friend's day.
by Keila, 826michigan
An "I A From" poem. English and Spanish versions included.
by Kevin, 826LA
A letter from the author to the author on appreciating both the unconventional and conventional parts of oneself.
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A personal narrative about a trip to Ocean City, a lonely puppy, and sharing our fears with others.
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The story of a lifetime—literally.
by Kenneth Vasquez, Age 10, 826 Valencia
A student reflects on their love of soccer.
by Dahlia-Rose, 826NYC
A field guide to Queen Anne’s Lace and a day in the life from a flower’s perspective.
by Reyes, 826NYC
A creative field guide to the eastern gray squirrel.
by Angel Flores Vazquez, 826 Valencia
This poem illustrates the effectiveness of descriptive language.
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An academically-inclined student passes on their favorite tips for having fun before fifth grade starts.
by Robert, 826CHI
A poem that explores the struggles of mine workers.
by Kayla, 826LA
This author reflects on an act of kindness to someone in need.
by Penelope, 826 Valencia
In this superhero story, Super Duper Scarlet must save San Fran Superland from Doctor Nefario!
by Smila H., Age 10, 826LA
A powerful acrostic poem that shares an encouraging message.
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A student reports on Islamophobia, using research and interviews to explore this mindset and its damaging repercussions.
by Clara, 826 Valencia
A detailed design for a new school that students would love, complete with outdoor spaces for tennis and ice-skating!
by Jack, Grade 5, 826 New Orleans
In this transcript, a student shares three clear actions to stand up to bullies.
by Keila S.O., 826michigan
An “I Am From” poem about growing up in Detroit.
by Luis Cornejo, age 9, 826 Valencia
A student recalls the first time they saw a ghost.
by Kathryn, 826NYC
A very scientific origin poem about french fries, starting with an argument between the sun and the moon.
by Dy’Stonie V., Grade 5, 826 New Orleans
A poem that highlights the bond between grandparent, grandchild, and a sweet perfume.
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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 Emmanuel, 826DC
A personal narrative about a tender first sighting between brothers on a family trip to El Salvador.
by Maia Sears, 826michigan
This student describes exciting things the future will bring, like elevators that can reach space!
by Jeffrey, 826DC
In this "I Wish" poem, written in both Spanish and English, a student dreams of a more colorful world.
by Lina, 826 Valencia
A mischievous recipe calling for 3 tablespoons of candy, 10 gallons of not laughing, and 100 gallons of mother.
by Caleigh, 826LA
A letter offering a concise yet compelling list of all that awaits in LA.
by Emma D., Grade 4, 826LA
A plea to the next President to provide better access to mental health treatment for youth.
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 Athena, 826NYC
An "I Am From" superhero persona poem.
by Jekaya, 826 Boston
A student reflects on what it takes to stand up to bullies and speak up for others.
by Victor, 826 Valencia
This student gives thanks to ordinary objects in an ode.
by Robert, 826CHI
A collection of haikus spanning books and cosmology.
by Natalie, 826 Valencia
A recipe for how to create a legendary rapper.
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 Donald W., Grade 4, 826michigan
A student describes their very helpful imaginary friend.
by Lux, 826NYC
A student reflects on their experiences with bullying and how they’ll take a stand in the future.
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 Marie, 826CHI
A monkey named Chesley saves the animals of the forest from an evil Master!
by Will, 826michigan
A student imagines life in the future.
by Kelis, 826NYC
On the planet Mars, Zoe must defeat the supervillain Zygorn to avenge her family! Wait—was it all a dream?
by Kayamaghi, 826NYC
A lab experiment goes wrong and a humble scientist must save Superhero Land from a super speedy villain!
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 Camila R.G., Grade 4, 826LA
In this letter, a student asks the next U.S. President to help the homeless.
by Sumaya, 826 MSP
This poem uses analogies to describe different objects the writer would like to be.
by Ava Tassinari, 826 Boston
A story about a bullying incident on the school bus.
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 Salimatou, 826NYC
Together, a princess with superpowers and an orphan-turned-sidekick must save the king and queen of kingdom Atarica!
by Ayelen C., Age 9, 826 Valencia
A student's sweet letter to their grandmother.
by Hanako M., Age 10, 826michigan
A "sense"-sational poem about the flowers in their yard.
by Alan, 826DC
This poem describes the thoughts of hunger.
by Antoni L., 826DC
In this poem, the author discusses their origins through metaphor.
by Salma, Grade 5, 826 Boston
A student reminds herself of the many ways she shines
by Marisa, 826michigan
A series of tweets about an adventurous cat named Marcus. #SuperCat #Meow
by Ivan Newton Ponce, 826 Valencia
This poem uses sensory details to describe the writer's favorite places.
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 Javier, 826DC
A student wishes for unexpected pops of color.
by Camilla S.R., Grade 5, 826 Valencia
A student describes her imaginary friend from Funky Town.
by Norah, Grade 5, 826DC
A student describes her mystical worm imaginary friend.
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 Elaine, 826 Boston
A diary entry reflecting on a secret mission to Mars!
by Eric, 826CHI
This student recounts a fictional chat with George Washington about the American Revolution over a meal.
by Caira N., Grade 5, 826NYC
A student lists all the reasons why her school is the best!
by Uma, 826NYC
A witty set of foolproof pickup lines.
by Fatima, 826michigan
A list poem about a beautiful room and a beautiful family in both English and Spanish.
by Meredith, 826michigan
A poem about globe-sized dreams.
by Joshua, 826CHI
Alien monsters and a young boy forge a friendship over a dramatic series of events.
by Abdinasir, 826 MSP
This poem shares what someone might experience on Halloween.
by Aiden Spence, Grade 3, 826NYC
This poem describes all of the reasons why green is the best color.
by Jaceon B., Grade 4, 826 New Orleans
A student describes their butter covered imaginary friend.
by Alexa, 826michigan
A poem that tastes like pepperoni pizza.
by Muawiye, 826 Boston
In this resolution inspired by the "Include Someone" lesson and Cartoon Network storyboard, we learn that the act of inclusion begins with feeling empathy.
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 Jesús, 826 Valencia
In this superhero story, Spyman is on an important mission—saving donuts from becoming bagels!
by Hope L.C., Age 10, 826DC
A silly story about dragon fruits -- no wait, fruit dragons!