In this letter from the Essential Words lesson, a sophomore at South High School in Minneapolis gives thanks to Children’s Hospital employees.

A teen discovers the power of books to transport him to another world, and shares his excitement about becoming a published author.

Using dialogue and detailed description, this poet investigates whose voices are heard and whose voices are left behind when injustice occurs.

One student explores their online persona and the lasting importance of conscientious social media practices.

A student reflects on her origins to deconstruct social borders and seize her boundless future.

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.

In this poem, a student’s experiences in two countries meld together as she seeks out her true home.

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.

A student reflects on his life, stemming from the life of his father.

A poem about the complexity of love exchanged during the holidays.

Discover what one student experiences when they tuck their phone away for a whole day.

A student explores U.S. soccer player Megan Rapinoe’s decision to kneel in protest during the national anthem.

Over a series of letters, two compassionate and resilient students develop a deep friendship sealed in writing.

Living in the digital world can create unwanted attachments, as one student laments.

A student reimagines food justice: Fruit Woman must convince Junk Food Man and Cheesecake Boy to eat their fruits and vegetables.

Liner notes that showcase the meaning and musicality of the Jimmy Ruffin song “What Becomes of the Brokenhearted.”

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.

A smile isn’t always what it seems.

In an exchange of letters, three students across one city share stories about where they came from and the places that matter most.

The written word is a powerful tool, and this poem shares a few reasons why the author continues to write.

A family interview reveals a mother's painful past and shines a light on her persistence.

A student reflects on a small moment and single sacrifice that transformed her outlook on giving.

Through this short story, Kalyn explores ideas of home and change in an altered world.

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.

This poem uses a fundamental poetry technique, repetition, to share the writer's future plans.

A soccer-filled, feud-fueled memoir.

Making bottle flipping look like child's play, this piece outlines rules for the new, competitive Fantasy Sport "Pencils".

A student explores the paradox of how technology is used amongst teenagers.

Two students across one city bond by writing letters to each other about the people they love most.

Through redefining a label, a student reclaims a piece of their identity.

A student considers realistic happy endings and the representation of LGBTQIA youth through the analysis of two webcomics.

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.

A neighborhood ode filled with sights and sounds of the poet's street.

In this poem, a student reflects on their roots and their desire to grow.

Even though we may look different, we remain united with one another.

This poem personifies Earth as a mother coping with the brutalities of climate change.

This poet rejects judgement based on the color of one’s skin.

A student is lifted up by the dance of her ancestors.

In this memoir, the narrator recounts the struggle of being the bigger person in a very small space.

A student compellingly argues that immigrants deserve respect and to be free of discrimination.

A student explores the representation of LGBTQIA+ minorities and youth in US pop culture.

Aliens give this student superpowers to help him fulfill his greatest dream.

This student’s powerful piece reveals the essence of racial injustice.

Glimpse into the mind of a student who considers artistic influences in her life.

One teen writes a letter to his 14-year-old self, citing his past fears but looking towards his present, a brighter future.

When Instagram becomes an unsightly battlefield.

A bilingual "I am" poem filled with conviction and courage.

A poem about the strength and limitations of language and shared culture.

A shout-out poem to some things missed (Hyderabad) and celebrated (Mom).

This creative short story explores a snapshot of what a future New Orleans might look like amid climate change.

In this heartfelt exchange of letters, two students bond over food, videos games, and some scary adventures.

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.

In this rousing poem, a student asserts her strength and worth as a woman.

This poem gives insight to what it's like growing up Black in America.

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?