Grade 5
Fantasy/SciFi, NarrativeWritingThe year was 3016, and the American population was in a state of panic. Computers all across the country were experiencing spontaneous combustion. Technology experts suspected that the problem was related to the computer’s batteries, but they could not determine the solution. The whole world seemed to be bursting into flames, and everyone was feeling very desperate.
Two twelve-year-old kids, Harry and Larry, were discussing the problem on the way home from school. As they turned to take a shortcut on the way down the alley, they were surprised to encounter a gangster dude. He didn’t look threatening, just lost in thought.
As Harry and Larry approached him, they saw he was holding something tiny outstretched in his hand. The two kids wondered what it could be.
Harry pulled out his phone and took a picture. Suddenly, the gangster dude became aware of their presence. Frightened, Harry and Larry ran away.
When Harry got home, he pulled out his phone and took a closer look at the photo. It looked like the gangster dude was holding a teeny-tiny TARDIS, just like on Doctor Who. He couldn’t wait to tell Larry.
The next day after school, Harry and Larry returned to the alley to investigate. The gangster dude was gone, but the tiny TARDIS was still there.
Harry decided to take another picture. This time, he zoomed into the image to set up his shot. Oddly, as he magnified the image on his phone, the actual TARDIS also increased in size. Harry took a picture. Then, excited by the possibilities, he zoomed in with his phone again. Again, the actual TARDIS grew.
Harry kept repeating this process until the TARDIS was large enough to hold five people. Harry and Larry couldn’t believe it.
Larry was known for his sense of adventure. “Let’s take a look inside the TARDIS,” he said to Harry.
“Uh, I don’t think so,” Harry replied. Harry was the more cautious of the two.
Larry relented, although he doesn’t usually give up so easily.
With their investigation complete, the two friends returned home for the evening. All night long, Larry thought of nothing but the TARDIS. It would be so amazing, he kept telling himself. FInally, he couldn’t take it any longer. He needed to get into that TARDIS.
Larry jumped out of the bed and quietly crept down the stairs. He knew it was hard to get out the front door because it was very creaky. The old door was so difficult to close, but somehow he managed it. He was out. He got his bike from the garage and flew out into the night.
Larry made it to the alley in record time. He climbed off his bike and leaned it against one of the old buildings. He took a deep breath and bravely walked into the TARDIS.
He went straight to the control panel to check it out. There were three dials all in a row, with a green start button right beside them. Above the dials, there were two LCD screens. One showed the date—April 15, 3016—and the other showed a world map.
Larry couldn’t resist the urge to start fiddling with the controls. As he turned the first dial, the month on the LCD screen changed. He tried the second and third dials, and the day and the year changed as well. Could this really be a time machine? he wondered.
Cautiously, he pressed the start button. It felt squishy in that way that filled him with anticipation.
Unfortunately, just moments later, the machine made a high-pitched beeping noise.
The computerized voice announced, “Please select your destination.”
The LCD screen with the world map started flashing. Larry looked around, but he couldn’t see any controls for the screen. He wondered if there had been a globe or something under the control panel, but he couldn’t find one. He was so close to working this machine, but he just couldn’t find the last piece of the puzzle. Filled with frustration, Larry got back on his bike and rode home.
The next morning, he couldn’t wait to tell Harry about his discovery. Right after breakfast, he raced out the door and ran to school.
Harry was approaching the main entrance as Larry looked up, giving them a moment to talk before the bell rang. Larry filled Harry in on all the details from the night before. Harry could hardly believe his ears. He was so excited that he could barely concentrate on his schoolwork that day.
The two boys made plans to return to the alley after school. Harry couldn’t wait. Time travel was just an inch away.
At the end of the day, the two friends met up and walked to the alley together. There it was—the TARDIS.
The pair eagerly went inside. Larry already knew what to expect of course, but Harry gasped in amazement to see it with his own eyes. It took him a minute to catch his breath.
Larry, on the other hand, immediately started fiddling with the dials. Suddenly, he experienced a stroke of genius. What if he could go back in time and ask Steve Jobs for help in solving the spontaneous combustion problem? Larry entered the date: January 19, 2000.
Just as he was considering how to program the location, Harry came over. “Oh, look!” he said, “it’s a touch screen map!”
Larry couldn’t believe the answer was right in front of him all along. He selected Cupertino, California on the map and they were ready to go.
“Wanna do the honors?” asked Larry.
“Sure,” replied Harry. He pressed down on the start button and the machine flew into the air. Harry screamed in terror, but Larry just squealed, “Whee!”
Then the ride ended, and the TARDIS was silent and still.
Larry stepped out of the TARDIS and was followed, a minute later, by a very shaken up Harry. To their surprise, Steve Jobs was waiting calmly.
“Good evening,” he said.
The two friends stared in awe.
“Hi, we’re the people from the future!” said both Harry and Larry.
“Jinx!” said Harry.
They told Steve the story of how they encountered the TARDIS. Of all the places and times they could visit, they chose the headquarters of Apple in the year 2000.
Harry and Larry were both computer buffs. They had studied the history of computers in America. They knew that one of the first personal computers was the Apple Lisa. They had read that batteries in the Lisa only held a charge for a few hours. They had also read that the batteries often broke and leaked acid over the circuit boards.
They knew Steve Jobs and his team had fixed the problem with Apple’s newer computers, and hoped he might be able to help them with their problems of 3016.
“Our computers are bursting into flames,” explained Harry.
“Hmm, does anyone know why?” asked Steve.
“Yes and no,” answered Larry.
“Scientists think it’s the batteries, but they’re not sure,” said Harry.
Steve appeared lost in thought for a while. Then he responded confidently.
“I have an idea,” said Steve. “Why don’t you meet at my lab? Here are the directions, it’s just one building over.”
With that, Steve handed them a printout and hurried off.
After Steve left, Harry and Larry had a moment of silence. They couldn’t believe they were actually in the presence of such greatness, and that Steve had actually agreed to help them. They practically giggled as they walked to Steve’s lab.
When they got there, Steve explained his idea. He agreed that the spontaneous combustion was the result of the faulty batteries. Somehow, the battery acid was becoming so hot that it was bursting into flames.
Steve had been working on the idea for years that he thought might come in handy. What if they attached a high powered fan, along with a small radiator, to the battery? Wouldn’t that be a cool way to keep the battery cool?
“Genius,” declared Harry and Larry.
The three worked together for hours and hours on the new design. Finally, they got a new adapter and tested the invention in Steve’s computer. It worked!
Next, they made a machine to reproduce their battery, the supercooler. A day later, the machine was ready. They loaded the machine into the TARDIS. Steve Jobs said goodbye to his new friends and set the dial in the TARDIS to 3016.
When Harry and Larry returned home, the word of supercoolers spread quickly. First, they applied for a patent on their invention. Next, they put their machine into production and manufactured millions of the supercooler. All of the major computer manufacturers turned to Harry and Larry to purchase this critical component.
Larry and Harry made a ton of money in their business. But, even more importantly, computers never burst into flames again.
No materials available for download.
by Pearl L., Age 10, 826DC
A story about Rory the dragon, the defender of all genders.
by Javier, 826DC
A student wishes for unexpected pops of color.
by Jesús, 826 Valencia
In this superhero story, Spyman is on an important mission—saving donuts from becoming bagels!
by Eric, 826CHI
This student recounts a fictional chat with George Washington about the American Revolution over a meal.
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 Jalen, 826NYC
A series of superhero haiku inspired by engineering secret lairs.
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 Violeta, 826CHI
A monster's routine trip for tuna sandwich ingredients results in a broken arm!
by Emmanuel, 826DC
A personal narrative about a tender first sighting between brothers on a family trip to El Salvador.
by Ximena Torres, Age 9, 826 Valencia
A poem about the lessons your family can teach you.
by Olivia, 826NYC
An elegy for corn.
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 Robert, 826CHI
A poem that explores the struggles of mine workers.
by Reyes, 826NYC
A creative field guide to the eastern gray squirrel.
by Salma, Grade 5, 826 Boston
A student reminds herself of the many ways she shines
by Angel Flores Vazquez, 826 Valencia
This poem illustrates the effectiveness of descriptive language.
by Uma, 826NYC
A witty set of foolproof pickup lines.
by Kayamaghi, 826NYC
A lab experiment goes wrong and a humble scientist must save Superhero Land from a super speedy villain!
by Girod, 826 New Orleans
This celebratory poem uses similes to list all of the things the writer loves about themself.
by Felix E., 826 Valencia
A student's fear is conquered after a startling discovery.
by Gabriella Mcclellan, Grade 5, 826michigan
This sci-fi piece shows the importance of talking things out with friends.
by Dahlia-Rose, 826NYC
A field guide to Queen Anne’s Lace and a day in the life from a flower’s perspective.
by Kaitlyn, 826NYC
A creation myth reimagined in a poem.
by Yarely, 826michigan
A poem about grandma. English and Spanish versions included.
by Winta, 826DC
A concise but essential list of survival tips in the event of a sweet disaster.
by Claire, 826CHI
A poem about “unfinding” what was known and learning to explore.
Perla Ortega, Age 9, 826 Valencia
A poet sweetly appreciates a teacher for her kindness.
Nur Schlenker, Age 10, 826 Valencia
A student paints two images, one of Halloween night, and the second of home.
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 Marisa, 826michigan
A series of tweets about an adventurous cat named Marcus. #SuperCat #Meow
by Kevin, 826LA
A letter from the author to the author on appreciating both the unconventional and conventional parts of oneself.
by Marvin, Grade 5, 826CHI
A troubled ghost haunts a boy’s dreams.
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 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 Simone, 826michigan
A poem about appreciating trees and why we should study them.
Roberto Misael Aguilera, Age 9, 826 Valencia
Discover the fearful T-Rex Koala--koala by day, monster by night!
by Luana Anticona Nolasco, age 10, 826 Valencia
An eerie encounter with a shapeshifter after a grocery run.
by Joshua, 826CHI
Alien monsters and a young boy forge a friendship over a dramatic series of events.
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 Norah, Grade 5, 826DC
A student describes her mystical worm imaginary friend.
by Liliana, 826DC
This student’s heartbreaking personal narrative describes what it can feel like to have your parents get divorced.
by Kelsey F., Grade 5, 826 Valencia
This poem shares an honest look at a big feeling: anxiety
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 Hanako M., Age 10, 826michigan
A "sense"-sational poem about the flowers in their yard.
by Erriyanna, 826michigan
An epic poem about a younger sister. English and Spanish versions included.
by Mohamed F., 826 MSP
This poem uses descriptive language to leave the reader clues about the animal it is depicting.
by Natalia, 826CHI
A story told by her grandfather leads Betty on a journey where fiction and reality collide.
by Joseline, 826DC
A personal narrative about a teensie, tiny bit of jealousy for a new baby sister turning into love.
by Marie, 826CHI
A monkey named Chesley saves the animals of the forest from an evil Master!
by Yasmeen Whitney, Age 9, 826 Valencia
This poem declares a student's love for snow globes!
by Athena, 826NYC
An "I Am From" superhero persona poem.
by Maria, 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 Dy’Stonie V., Grade 5, 826 New Orleans
A poem that highlights the bond between grandparent, grandchild, and a sweet perfume.
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.
Raquel Campos, Age 10, 826 Valencia
Three friends, inspired by a stream of butterflies, bake a beautiful cake.
by Jekaya, 826 Boston
A student reflects on what it takes to stand up to bullies and speak up for others.
by Aiden Spence, Grade 3, 826NYC
This poem describes all of the reasons why green is the best color.
Neveah H., Grade 5, 826NYC
Brooklyn is the place to be over the summer! A young writer reflects on how summertime cookouts bring family and community together.
by Lina, 826 Valencia
A mischievous recipe calling for 3 tablespoons of candy, 10 gallons of not laughing, and 100 gallons of mother.
by Marco, 826LA
A screenplay about a plane crash and an epic journey to Mexico, with a twist!
by Maia Sears, 826michigan
This student describes exciting things the future will bring, like elevators that can reach space!
by K.M., 826DC
In this piece, a student describes the challenges of being a superhero and reflects on their power to shine.
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 Marisol, 826michigan
A young girl's poem about all the life she sees in her yard. English and Spanish versions included.
by Athena, 826NYC
In this poem, a student explores both the seen and unseen powers of a superhero.
by Walter Linares, Age 11, 826 Valencia
The secrets of a spy in a red venom suit unfold...
by Marisa, 826NYC
A student reports on Islamophobia, using research and interviews to explore this mindset and its damaging repercussions.
by Ehmely, 826CHI
A crucial missive for anyone playing a high-stakes game of "Hide and Seek".
by Elaine, 826 Boston
A diary entry reflecting on a secret mission to Mars!
by Robert, 826CHI
A collection of haikus spanning books and cosmology.
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 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 Meredith, 826michigan
A poem about globe-sized dreams.
by Talia, 826NYC
A creative field guide to Sea Lettuce.
by Natalie, 826 Valencia
A recipe for how to create a legendary rapper.
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 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 Abdinasir, 826 MSP
This poem shares what someone might experience on Halloween.
by Jeffrey, 826DC
In this "I Wish" poem, written in both Spanish and English, a student dreams of a more colorful world.
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 Madison, 826 New Orleans
This poem leaves the reader descriptive clues to help them guess the mystery food.
by Lux, 826NYC
A student reflects on their experiences with bullying and how they’ll take a stand in the future.
by Daphne, 826 Valencia
A girl named Chloe embarks on a heroic mission after discovering a new super-identity: Fluffy Justice!
by Jack, Grade 5, 826 New Orleans
In this transcript, a student shares three clear actions to stand up to bullies.
by Kayla, 826LA
This author reflects on an act of kindness to someone in need.
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 Camilla S.R., Grade 5, 826 Valencia
A student describes her imaginary friend from Funky Town.
by Sumaya, 826 MSP
This poem uses analogies to describe different objects the writer would like to be.
by Charm R., Grade 5, 826 New Orleans
This poem tells the story of a courageous little bird.
by Zari P., Grade 4, 826DC
A playful "I am" poem that explores what's possible.
by Oscar, 826CHI
The story of a lifetime—literally.
by Ivan Newton Ponce, 826 Valencia
This poem uses sensory details to describe the writer's favorite places.
by Elena Chambers, 826michigan
Thinking of Cherry Coke lip gloss, community, and dancing, this narrator celebrates life from their front stoop.
Dylan Sanderson, Grade 5, 826NYC
A student dreams of the most joyful place in the world--somewhere with their family and money!
by Victor, 826 Valencia
An ode to Beans, Rice, and Chicken.
Elsie, 826 New Orleans
In this poem, a student celebrates individuality.
by Charlie, 826michigan
A very scientific retelling of why dinosaurs went extinct.
by Travis Cao, Age 8, 826 Valencia
This poem shows the importance of saying thank you to yourself!
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 Keila S.O., 826michigan
An “I Am From” poem about growing up in Detroit.
by Juna, 826michigan
A poem about taking the world in—and letting go.
by Salimatou, Grade 5, 826NYC
Together, a princess with superpowers and an orphan-turned-sidekick must save the king and queen of kingdom Atarica!
by Milo, 826NYC
A creative origin story in which a programmer simultaneously creates life and biology in a program.
Vivien Norton, Age 12, 826michigan
A poet explores their love for writing with their friend.
by Kelis, 826NYC
On the planet Mars, Zoe must defeat the supervillain Zygorn to avenge her family! Wait—was it all a dream?
by Keila, 826michigan
An "I Am From" poem. English and Spanish versions included.
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 Lyric White, age 10, 826 Valencia
A magical mountain quest to save a mermaid.
by Penelope, 826 Valencia
In this superhero story, Super Duper Scarlet must save San Fran Superland from Doctor Nefario!
by Kenneth Vasquez, Age 10, 826 Valencia
A student reflects on their love of soccer.
by Kevin J. Ortiz, 826DC
A personal narrative about a trip to Ocean City, a lonely puppy, and sharing our fears with others.
by Victor, 826 Valencia
This student gives thanks to ordinary objects in an ode.
by Naomi, 826michigan
A (mostly) love letter to a kiwi with delicious imagery.
by Hope L.C., Age 10, 826DC
A silly story about dragon fruits -- no wait, fruit dragons!
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 Carolyn Danielle Wong, Age 9, 826 Valencia
In this poem, the writer showcases self-love and joy.
by Chelsea, Grade 5, 826NYC
A student passes on their favorite tips for having fun and surviving fifth grade.
by Caira N., Grade 5, 826NYC
A student lists all the reasons why her school is the best!
We are thrilled to have you as the newest member of our online community. Stay up-to-date on the the latest and most relevant resources, student publication opportunities, and what’s new with the 826 Digital community.
bookmark
download
Share