Nataly was at the supermarket before she came home. She heard a scratch on the door. She grabbed a knife, ran to her room, and hid under her bed. Nataly heard footsteps. An evil shapeshifter arrived at Nataly’s room and said, “I can see you.”
Nataly tried not to make any noise. The shapeshifter left, so Nataly grabbed her phone, a blanket, and snacks. She stayed there for the whole day. She brought her charger too!
As she watched TikTok, the shapeshifter came again and said, “I know you’re here!”
So she jumped out the window and ran to call 9-1-1. Nataly was on the phone as she jumped into the car. She went to the trunk but then went to the driver’s seat.
After that, the shapeshifter was running after her. She was trying to explain to the police what was happening but it was cutting out. The shapeshifter got on the call and said, “You can never get rid of me! Haha!”
But Nataly barely heard because the rain was pouring and it was loud. The shapeshifter came behind her, so Nataly ran and came to an abandoned house, where she hid under the cabinets. She covered her mouth, trying not to make a sound, but she needed to sneeze and she couldn’t hold it.
She covered her nose and sneezed into her own hand. Suddenly, the shapeshifter came to her and grabbed her . . .
To be continued . . .
from the 826 Valencia publication RELAX AND LET ME TELL YOU A STORY
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by Joshua, 826CHI
Alien monsters and a young boy forge a friendship over a dramatic series of events.
by Damian A., Grade 4, 826CHI
A student describes their bear-y fun imaginary friend.
Roberto Misael Aguilera, Age 9, 826 Valencia
Discover the fearful T-Rex Koala--koala by day, monster by night!
by Camilla S.R., Grade 5, 826 Valencia
A student describes her imaginary friend from Funky Town.
by Jalen, 826NYC
A series of superhero haiku inspired by engineering secret lairs.
by Abdinasir, 826 MSP
This poem shares what someone might experience on Halloween.
by Jesús, 826 Valencia
In this superhero story, Spyman is on an important mission—saving donuts from becoming bagels!
by Marisa, 826michigan
A series of tweets about an adventurous cat named Marcus. #SuperCat #Meow
by Chelsea, 826NYC
An academically-inclined student passes on their favorite tips for having fun before fifth grade starts.
by Fatima, 826michigan
A list poem about a beautiful room and a beautiful family in both English and Spanish.
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 Meredith, 826michigan
A poem about globe-sized dreams.
by Christian, 826 New Orleans
This poem uses personification to introduce the audience to an olive and its cousin, Jeff.
by Walter Linares, Age 11, 826 Valencia
The secrets of a spy in a red venom suit unfold...
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 Keila S.O., 826michigan
An “I Am From” poem about growing up in Detroit.
by Elian de Leon, 826NYC
A poem that focuses on color and translates it into sensory details.
by Aiden Spence, Grade 3, 826NYC
This poem describes all of the reasons why green is the best color.
by Erriyanna, 826michigan
An epic poem about a younger sister. English and Spanish versions included.
by Kelis, 826NYC
On the planet Mars, Zoe must defeat the supervillain Zygorn to avenge her family! Wait—was it all a dream?
by Norah, Grade 5, 826DC
A student describes her mystical worm imaginary friend.
by Milo, 826NYC
A creative origin story in which a programmer simultaneously creates life and biology in a program.
by Felix E., 826 Valencia
A student's fear is conquered after a startling discovery.
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 Robert, 826CHI
A poem that explores the struggles of mine workers.
by Angel Flores Vazquez, 826 Valencia
This poem illustrates the effectiveness of descriptive language.
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 Jeffrey, 826DC
In this "I Wish" poem, written in both Spanish and English, a student dreams of a more colorful world.
by Charlie, 826michigan
A very scientific retelling of why dinosaurs went extinct.
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 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 Lyric White, age 10, 826 Valencia
A magical mountain quest to save a mermaid.
Raven, 826 New Orleans
You guessed it—an ode to cookies.
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 Lux, 826NYC
A student reflects on their experiences with bullying and how they’ll take a stand in the future.
by Will, 826michigan
A student imagines life in the future.
by Hope L.C., Age 10, 826DC
A silly story about dragon fruits -- no wait, fruit dragons!
by Claire, 826CHI
A poem about “unfinding” what was known and learning to explore.
by Kevin J. Ortiz, 826DC
A personal narrative about a trip to Ocean City, a lonely puppy, and sharing our fears with others.
by Hanako M., Age 10, 826michigan
A "sense"-sational poem about the flowers in their yard.
by Joseline, 826DC
A personal narrative about a teensie, tiny bit of jealousy for a new baby sister turning into love.
by Emmanuel, 826DC
A personal narrative about a tender first sighting between brothers on a family trip to El Salvador.
by Caleigh, 826LA
A letter offering a concise yet compelling list of all that awaits in LA.
by Maia Sears, 826michigan
This student describes exciting things the future will bring, like elevators that can reach space!
by Ayelen C., Age 9, 826 Valencia
A student's sweet letter to their grandmother.
Ren, 826 New Orleans
In this poem, a student explores what summer means to them.
by Liliana, 826DC
This student’s heartbreaking personal narrative describes what it can feel like to have your parents get divorced.
by Reyes, 826NYC
A creative field guide to the eastern gray squirrel.
by Giannyl Guerrero Cabral, 826 Boston
A practical list of ways anyone can stop bullying.
by Olivia, 826NYC
An elegy for corn.
by Alfredo Enriquez-Aguilar, 826 Valencia
Have you ever wanted to care for a dragon? This poem teaches you how.
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 Emma D., Grade 4, 826LA
A plea to the next President to provide better access to mental health treatment for youth.
by Alexa, 826michigan
A poem that tastes like pepperoni pizza.
by Victor, 826 Valencia
An ode to Beans, Rice, and Chicken.
by Dahlia-Rose, 826NYC
A field guide to Queen Anne’s Lace and a day in the life from a flower’s perspective.
by Naomi, 826michigan
A (mostly) love letter to a kiwi with delicious imagery.
by Uma, 826NYC
A witty set of foolproof pickup lines.
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 Zari P., Grade 4, 826DC
A playful "I am" poem that explores what's possible.
by Ehmely, 826CHI
A crucial missive for anyone playing a high-stakes game of "Hide and Seek".
by Charm R., Grade 5, 826 New Orleans
This poem tells the story of a courageous little bird.
by Maria, 826 Valencia
This student gives thanks to ordinary objects in an ode.
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 Natalie, 826 Valencia
A recipe for how to create a legendary rapper.
by Marco, 826LA
A screenplay about a plane crash and an epic journey to Mexico, with a twist!
Nur Schlenker, Age 10, 826 Valencia
A student paints two images, one of Halloween night, and the second of home.
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 Yasmeen Whitney, Age 9, 826 Valencia
This poem declares a student's love for snow globes!
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 Marie, 826CHI
A monkey named Chesley saves the animals of the forest from an evil Master!
by Pearl L., Age 10, 826DC
A story about Rory the dragon, the defender of all genders.
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 Ciaran, 826NYC
A creative field guide to a Mourning Cloak butterfly who lives in New York City.
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 Elaine, 826 Boston
A diary entry reflecting on a secret mission to Mars!
by Marisa, 826NYC
A student reports on Islamophobia, using research and interviews to explore this mindset and its damaging repercussions.
by Javier, 826DC
A student wishes for unexpected pops of color.
by Madison, 826 New Orleans
This poem leaves the reader descriptive clues to help them guess the mystery food.
by Rechab T., 826DC
This poem takes a surreal approach to describing a scene.
by Athena, 826NYC
An "I Am From" superhero persona poem.
by Zaid Rodriguez, 826 Valencia
This story immerses the reader in sensory details to tell the tale of what lies behind a mysterious door.
Perla Ortega, Age 9, 826 Valencia
A poet sweetly appreciates a teacher for her kindness.
Dominick Contreras Rodriguez, age 9, 826 Valencia
A student traces his identity through food and family.
by Kayla, 826LA
This author reflects on an act of kindness to someone in need.
by Alan, 826DC
This poem describes the thoughts of hunger.
by Maribel O.G., Grade 4, 826 Valencia
In this story, a student gets to know a new teacher and discovers that things are not always as they seem.
by Athena, 826NYC
In this poem, a student explores both the seen and unseen powers of a superhero.
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 K.M., 826DC
In this piece, a student describes the challenges of being a superhero and reflects on their power to shine.
by Camila R.G., Grade 4, 826LA
In this letter, a student asks the next U.S. President to help the homeless.
by Simone, 826michigan
A poem about appreciating trees and why we should study them.
by Salimatou, 826NYC
Together, a princess with superpowers and an orphan-turned-sidekick must save the king and queen of kingdom Atarica!
by Ximena Torres, Age 9, 826 Valencia
A poem about the lessons your family can teach you.
by Kenneth Vasquez, Age 10, 826 Valencia
A student reflects on their love of soccer.
by Dy’Stonie V., Grade 5, 826 New Orleans
A poem that highlights the bond between grandparent, grandchild, and a sweet perfume.
by Elena Chambers, 826michigan
Thinking of Cherry Coke lip gloss, community, and dancing, this narrator celebrates life from their front stoop.
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 Juna, 826michigan
A poem about taking the world in—and letting go.
by Lina, 826 Valencia
A mischievous recipe calling for 3 tablespoons of candy, 10 gallons of not laughing, and 100 gallons of mother.
Elsie, 826 New Orleans
In this poem, a student celebrates individuality.
by Talia, 826NYC
A creative field guide to Sea Lettuce.
by Jonathan Rivera Navarro, 826 Valencia
This poem celebrates and mourns a taco.
by Daphne, 826 Valencia
A girl named Chloe embarks on a heroic mission after discovering a new super-identity: Fluffy Justice!
by Jaceon B., Grade 4, 826 New Orleans
A student describes their butter covered imaginary friend.
Raquel Campos, Age 10, 826 Valencia
Three friends, inspired by a stream of butterflies, bake a beautiful cake.
by Marvin, Grade 5, 826CHI
A troubled ghost haunts a boy’s dreams.
Noah Jean Marie, Age 9, 826NYC
A poet captures the freedom of dancing.
by Kaitlyn, 826NYC
A creation myth reimagined in a poem.
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.
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 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 Yaretzi, 826LA
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 Violeta, 826CHI
A monster's routine trip for tuna sandwich ingredients results in a broken arm!
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 Ava Tassinari, 826 Boston
A story about a bullying incident on the school bus.
by Oscar, 826CHI
The story of a lifetime—literally.
by Keila, 826michigan
An "I Am From" poem. English and Spanish versions included.
by Donald W., Grade 4, 826michigan
A student describes their very helpful imaginary friend.
by Caira N., Grade 5, 826NYC
A student lists all the reasons why her school is the best!
by Quinn, 826CHI
A piece that explores the dynamic nature of love and might just become your next Valentine's Day card.
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 Marisol, 826michigan
A young girl's poem about all the life she sees in her yard. English and Spanish versions included.
by Penelope, 826 Valencia
In this superhero story, Super Duper Scarlet must save San Fran Superland from Doctor Nefario!
by Girod, 826 New Orleans
This celebratory poem uses similes to list all of the things the writer loves about themself.
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 Ivan Newton Ponce, 826 Valencia
This poem uses sensory details to describe the writer's favorite places.
Vivien Norton, Age 12, 826michigan
A poet explores their love for writing with their friend.
by Carolyn Danielle Wong, Age 9, 826 Valencia
In this poem, the writer showcases self-love and joy.
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.
Nasir Farmer, Age 8, 826 Boston
Our protagonist attempts to evade a boogieman invasion.
by Jack, Grade 5, 826 New Orleans
In this transcript, a student shares three clear actions to stand up to bullies.
by Sumaya, 826 MSP
This poem uses analogies to describe different objects the writer would like to be.
by Natalia, 826CHI
A story told by her grandfather leads Betty on a journey where fiction and reality collide.
by Kevin, 826LA
A letter from the author to the author on appreciating both the unconventional and conventional parts of oneself.
by Eric, 826CHI
This student recounts a fictional chat with George Washington about the American Revolution over a meal.
by Kayamaghi, 826NYC
A lab experiment goes wrong and a humble scientist must save Superhero Land from a super speedy villain!
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 Winta, 826DC
A concise but essential list of survival tips in the event of a sweet disaster.
by Antoni L., 826DC
In this poem, the author discusses their origins through metaphor.
by Smila H., Age 10, 826LA
A powerful acrostic poem that shares an encouraging message.
by Mohamed F., 826 MSP
This poem uses descriptive language to leave the reader clues about the animal it is depicting.
by Yarely, 826michigan
A poem about grandma. English and Spanish versions included.
by Jekaya, 826 Boston
A student reflects on what it takes to stand up to bullies and speak up for others.
Dylan Sanderson, Grade 5, 826NYC
A student dreams of the most joyful place in the world--somewhere with their family and money!
by Salma, Grade 5, 826 Boston
A student reminds herself of the many ways she shines
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