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
No materials available for download.
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 Hope L.C., Age 10, 826DC
A silly story about dragon fruits -- no wait, fruit dragons!
by Keila, 826michigan
An "I Am From" poem. English and Spanish versions included.
by Victor, 826 Valencia
An ode to Beans, Rice, and Chicken.
by Olivia, 826NYC
An elegy for corn.
Nur Schlenker, Age 10, 826 Valencia
A student paints two images, one of Halloween night, and the second of home.
Vivien Norton, Age 12, 826michigan
A poet explores their love for writing with their friend.
Nasir Farmer, Age 8, 826 Boston
Our protagonist attempts to evade a boogieman invasion.
by Penelope, 826 Valencia
In this superhero story, Super Duper Scarlet must save San Fran Superland from Doctor Nefario!
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 Angel Flores Vazquez, 826 Valencia
This poem illustrates the effectiveness of descriptive language.
by Athena, 826NYC
An "I Am From" superhero persona poem.
by Maria, 826 Valencia
This student gives thanks to ordinary objects in an ode.
Raven, 826 New Orleans
You guessed it—an ode to cookies.
by Norah, Grade 5, 826DC
A student describes her mystical worm imaginary friend.
by Alexa, 826michigan
A poem that tastes like pepperoni pizza.
by Reyes, 826NYC
A creative field guide to the eastern gray squirrel.
by Chelsea, Grade 5, 826NYC
A student passes on their favorite tips for having fun and surviving fifth grade.
by Antoni L., 826DC
In this poem, the author discusses their origins through metaphor.
by Caleigh, 826LA
A letter offering a concise yet compelling list of all that awaits in LA.
by Emmanuel, 826DC
A personal narrative about a tender first sighting between brothers on a family trip to El Salvador.
by Milo, 826NYC
A creative origin story in which a programmer simultaneously creates life and biology in a program.
by Camila R.G., Grade 4, 826LA
In this letter, a student asks the next U.S. President to help the homeless.
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 Jacob P., age 11, 826 LA
An iPad, a ghost, and an unexpected friendship.
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 Jack, Grade 5, 826 New Orleans
In this transcript, a student shares three clear actions to stand up to bullies.
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 Ximena Torres, Age 9, 826 Valencia
A poem about the lessons your family can teach you.
by Will, 826michigan
A student imagines life in the future.
by Charm R., Grade 5, 826 New Orleans
This poem tells the story of a courageous little bird.
by Jalen, 826NYC
A series of superhero haiku inspired by engineering secret lairs.
by Dahlia-Rose, 826NYC
A field guide to Queen Anne’s Lace and a day in the life from a flower’s perspective.
Rachel G., Grade 5, 826NYC
A young writer teaches us the value of learning about different cultures.
by Athena, 826NYC
In this poem, a student explores both the seen and unseen powers of a superhero.
by Ivan Newton Ponce, 826 Valencia
This poem uses sensory details to describe the writer's favorite places.
by Fatima, 826michigan
A list poem about a beautiful room and a beautiful family in both English and Spanish.
by Kenneth Vasquez, Age 10, 826 Valencia
A student reflects on their love of soccer.
by Victor, 826 Valencia
This student gives thanks to ordinary objects in an ode.
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 Javier, 826DC
A student wishes for unexpected pops of color.
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 Kayla, 826LA
This author reflects on an act of kindness to someone in need.
by Sumaya, 826 MSP
This poem uses analogies to describe different objects the writer would like to be.
by Alan, 826DC
This poem describes the thoughts of hunger.
by Joshua, 826CHI
Alien monsters and a young boy forge a friendship over a dramatic series of events.
by Claire, 826CHI
A poem about “unfinding” what was known and learning to explore.
by Caira N., Grade 5, 826NYC
A student lists all the reasons why her school is the best!
by Robert, 826CHI
A poem that explores the struggles of mine workers.
by Hanako M., Age 10, 826michigan
A "sense"-sational poem about the flowers in their yard.
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 Felix E., 826 Valencia
A student's fear is conquered after a startling discovery.
by Lux, 826NYC
A student reflects on their experiences with bullying and how they’ll take a stand in the future.
Perla Ortega, Age 9, 826 Valencia
A poet sweetly appreciates a teacher for her kindness.
by Jeffrey, 826DC
In this "I Wish" poem, written in both Spanish and English, a student dreams of a more colorful world.
by Jekaya, 826 Boston
A student reflects on what it takes to stand up to bullies and speak up for others.
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 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 Elian de Leon, 826NYC
A poem that focuses on color and translates it into sensory details.
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 Kelsey F., Grade 5, 826 Valencia
This poem shares an honest look at a big feeling: anxiety
by Rechab T., 826DC
This poem takes a surreal approach to describing a scene.
Roberto Misael Aguilera, Age 9, 826 Valencia
Discover the fearful T-Rex Koala--koala by day, monster by night!
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 Alfredo Enriquez-Aguilar, 826 Valencia
Have you ever wanted to care for a dragon? This poem teaches you how.
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 Talia, 826NYC
A creative field guide to Sea Lettuce.
by Meredith, 826michigan
A poem about globe-sized dreams.
by Girod, 826 New Orleans
This celebratory poem uses similes to list all of the things the writer loves about themself.
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 Daphne, 826 Valencia
A girl named Chloe embarks on a heroic mission after discovering a new super-identity: Fluffy Justice!
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 Dy’Stonie V., Grade 5, 826 New Orleans
A poem that highlights the bond between grandparent, grandchild, and a sweet perfume.
by Ehmely, 826CHI
A crucial missive for anyone playing a high-stakes game of "Hide and Seek".
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 Donald W., Grade 4, 826michigan
A student describes their very helpful imaginary friend.
Noah Jean Marie, Age 9, 826NYC
A poet captures the freedom of dancing.
Nur Schlenker, age 10, 826 Valencia
Experience the sights and sounds of Halloween in this vivid poem.
by Travis Cao, Age 8, 826 Valencia
This poem shows the importance of saying thank you to yourself!
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 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 Genesis Vela Vela, age 9, 826 Valencia
Learn about the food, culture, and history of Mexico… from Día De Los Muertos to dinosaurs!
by Giannyl Guerrero Cabral, 826 Boston
A practical list of ways anyone can stop bullying.
Christina L., Grade 4, 826 MSP
We are a reflection of the people we love and who love us.
by Smila H., Age 10, 826LA
A powerful acrostic poem that shares an encouraging message.
by Jonathan Rivera Navarro, 826 Valencia
This poem celebrates and mourns a taco.
by Keila S.O., 826michigan
An “I Am From” poem about growing up in Detroit.
Elsie, 826 New Orleans
In this poem, a student celebrates individuality.
by Camilla S.R., Grade 5, 826 Valencia
A student describes her imaginary friend from Funky Town.
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 Carolyn Danielle Wong, Age 9, 826 Valencia
In this poem, the writer showcases self-love and joy.
by Natalia, 826CHI
A story told by her grandfather leads Betty on a journey where fiction and reality collide.
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 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 Jaceon B., Grade 4, 826 New Orleans
A student describes their butter covered imaginary friend.
by Aiden Spence, Grade 3, 826NYC
This poem describes all of the reasons why green is the best color.
by Lina, 826 Valencia
A mischievous recipe calling for 3 tablespoons of candy, 10 gallons of not laughing, and 100 gallons of mother.
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 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 Salma, Grade 5, 826 Boston
A student reminds herself of the many ways she shines
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 Marisa, 826michigan
A series of tweets about an adventurous cat named Marcus. #SuperCat #Meow
by Iman Abdullah, Grade 4, 826NYC
This joyful letter to everyone's favorite pop star sings! Are you "Ready For It?"
by Marisol, 826michigan
A young girl's poem about all the life she sees in her yard. English and Spanish versions included.
by Kathryn, 826NYC
A very scientific origin poem about french fries, starting with an argument between the sun and the moon.
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 Winta, 826DC
A concise but essential list of survival tips in the event of a sweet disaster.
by Kevin, 826LA
A letter from the author to the author on appreciating both the unconventional and conventional parts of oneself.
by Luis Cornejo, age 9, 826 Valencia
A student recalls the first time they saw a ghost.
by Madison, 826 New Orleans
This poem leaves the reader descriptive clues to help them guess the mystery food.
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 Zari P., Grade 4, 826DC
A playful "I am" poem that explores what's possible.
by Kevin J. Ortiz, 826DC
A personal narrative about a trip to Ocean City, a lonely puppy, and sharing our fears with others.
by Yasmeen Whitney, Age 9, 826 Valencia
This poem declares a student's love for snow globes!
by Juna, 826michigan
A poem about taking the world in—and letting go.
Ren, 826 New Orleans
In this poem, a student explores what summer means to them.
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 Violeta, 826CHI
A monster's routine trip for tuna sandwich ingredients results in a broken arm!
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 Elena Chambers, 826michigan
Thinking of Cherry Coke lip gloss, community, and dancing, this narrator celebrates life from their front stoop.
by Kayamaghi, 826NYC
A lab experiment goes wrong and a humble scientist must save Superhero Land from a super speedy villain!
Raquel Campos, Age 10, 826 Valencia
Three friends, inspired by a stream of butterflies, bake a beautiful cake.
by Charlie, 826michigan
A very scientific retelling of why dinosaurs went extinct.
by Emma D., Grade 4, 826LA
A plea to the next President to provide better access to mental health treatment for youth.
Day M., Grade 4, 826 MSP
An ode to a poet's love for their culture and family.
Dylan Sanderson, Grade 5, 826NYC
A student dreams of the most joyful place in the world--somewhere with their family and money!
by Uma, 826NYC
A witty set of foolproof pickup lines.
Miracle W., Age 9, 826DC
A speaker named Hershey paints their absurd and creative world.
by Kelis, 826NYC
On the planet Mars, Zoe must defeat the supervillain Zygorn to avenge her family! Wait—was it all a dream?
by Yarely, 826michigan
A poem about grandma. English and Spanish versions included.
by Ayelen C., Age 9, 826 Valencia
A student's sweet letter to their grandmother.
by Sahni Yokley-Wash, age 9, 826 Valencia
Will this story's brave hero be able to survive a frightening forest adventure?
Axel Fuentes-Cruz, age 9, 826 Valencia
Three friends meet a frightening fate in this terrifying tale.
by Ava Tassinari, 826 Boston
A story about a bullying incident on the school bus.
by Lyric White, age 10, 826 Valencia
A magical mountain quest to save a mermaid.
by Kaitlyn, 826NYC
A creation myth reimagined in a poem.
by Gabriella Mcclellan, Grade 5, 826michigan
This sci-fi piece shows the importance of talking things out with friends.
by Erriyanna, 826michigan
An epic poem about a younger sister. English and Spanish versions included.
by K.M., 826DC
In this piece, a student describes the challenges of being a superhero and reflects on their power to shine.
by Ahlaam, Grade 4, 826 MSP
Burglars beware. . . a nine-year-old witch fights crime!
by Jesús, 826 Valencia
In this superhero story, Spyman is on an important mission—saving donuts from becoming bagels!
by Marvin, Grade 5, 826CHI
A troubled ghost haunts a boy’s dreams.
by Quinn, 826CHI
A piece that explores the dynamic nature of love and might just become your next Valentine's Day card.
by Ciaran, 826NYC
A creative field guide to a Mourning Cloak butterfly who lives in New York City.
by Oscar, 826CHI
The story of a lifetime—literally.
by Naomi, 826michigan
A (mostly) love letter to a kiwi with delicious imagery.
by Robert, 826CHI
A collection of haikus spanning books and cosmology.
by Liliana, 826DC
This student’s heartbreaking personal narrative describes what it can feel like to have your parents get divorced.
by Damian A., Grade 4, 826CHI
A student describes their bear-y fun imaginary friend.
by Pearl L., Age 10, 826DC
A story about Rory the dragon, the defender of all genders.
by Natalie, 826 Valencia
A recipe for how to create a legendary rapper.
by Christian, 826 New Orleans
This poem uses personification to introduce the audience to an olive and its cousin, Jeff.
by Simone, 826michigan
A poem about appreciating trees and why we should study them.
Dominick Contreras Rodriguez, age 9, 826 Valencia
A student traces his identity through food and family.
by Joseline, 826DC
A personal narrative about a teensie, tiny bit of jealousy for a new baby sister turning into love.
by Abdinasir, 826 MSP
This poem shares what someone might experience on Halloween.
by Elaine, 826 Boston
A diary entry reflecting on a secret mission to Mars!
by Maia Sears, 826michigan
This student describes exciting things the future will bring, like elevators that can reach space!
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 Alexander C. Hernandez, Grade 4, 826 Valencia
A story about a dog who gets a second chance.

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