Grade 6
Fantasy/SciFiWritingAyana is a twelve-year-old girl who lives in a brick house with a younger sister and brother. She loves to cook, write, read, and sleep. Her talent is swimming, and she hopes that one day, she can scuba dive in the Caribbean. She dreams of becoming a lawyer. Ayana believes that she is not just a participant in life, but a piece to an endless puzzle.
I’ll confess. My imaginary friend has been through a lot. He goes as Sir Shaggy McPatches for this reason. He is a furry, light blue blanket who has faced childhood himself. Sir Shaggy is a sympathetic one to carry all my salty tears when I’m sad, and is never at a loss for words when I’m needing his comfort. I can smell fresh laundry detergent and comforting coffee beans brewing in Sir Shaggy. Even though he might have lost a couple of pieces of fur on his journey with me, I’ll let you in on a little secret: he is still here!
And thus, I must admit that Sir Shaggy is quite disheveled.
His last name, McPatches, originated from his power to patch up the fear of monsters under the bed. Each night, Sir Shaggy stays wide awake to fight all the terrifying creatures lurking around. The only whimsical trip he has solely been on was the spinning adventure inside the washing machine. Of course, he had many experiences such as being buried in grainy, itchy sand, acting as a bone for the neighborhood dog, and even facing Grandma’s painful needle stitches. Unlike ordinary people, Sir Shaggy wears socks instead of shoes. After all, shoes are not so pleasant to cuddle with. His smile is friendly, and his large black eyes symbolize sophistication. His wise words are never to be denied, because he’s simply always right. McPatches’s prized possession is a shield that says, “bedtime ninja,” which he received on his third birthday to fight off monsters and phantoms. McPatches dislikes dog drool, leather, and sarcasm. He prefers rainy days, the sound of cafe chatter, and eating double fudge cookies or turkey sandwiches.
Sir Shaggy has an amazing skill of storytelling. He holds the power to transform your surroundings to match any story, leaving you in extreme awe. Whenever his loved ones are in danger, he feels a sense of fear that is hard to shake off. When Sir Shaggy needs comfort, he knows he can always go to his best friend, a broom named Larry. If there’s one thing that Shaggy loves to do when he finally gets a break from his full-time schedule, it is to hop on his sailboat and head out to the deep blue seas. With the wind in his fur and the waves beneath him, he finds peace to let his thoughts roam. Sir Shaggy McPatches has a mind of his own, full of wonder. Spending a normal day with Sir Shaggy is full of sharing tall tales, indulging in delicious cookies or sandwiches, and sailing across oceans. He knows how to make every moment count. By writing a letter explaining why they need one and placing it under their mattress, many people can create a blanket like Shaggy. You can always count on him!
Sir Shaggy McPatches may just be a light blue blanket, but he holds a precious place in my heart. He has been with me through thick and thin, fighting off bedtime monsters, providing comfort, and even serving as a bone for the neighborhood dog. After all, as Sir Shaggy always says, “A good friend is like a blanket, always there to keep you warm and cozy.”
ABOUT THE PROJECT
With Paramount Pictures’ latest film IF as inspiration, children around the nation put pens to paper to bring their imaginary friends to life through writing. Together, 826 and Paramount Pictures published three books of youth writing inspired by the upcoming film, starring John Krasinski, Ryan Reynolds, Cailey Fleming, Louis Gossett Jr., Jon Stewart, Awkwafina, Maya Rudolph, and Steve Carell.
See the lesson that inspired the writing here. Learn more about the project here.
by Elaine, 826 Boston
A diary entry reflecting on a secret mission to Mars!
by Brigid, 826CHI
A poem about facing fear—and learning how to shine.
by 826NYC students Ash Doliber, Sidney Edelson, Ella Holland, Mavis Lu, Justin Nemeroff, Bird Rzepniewski, and Isabella Wu
This collaborative poem explores the many sides and senses of laughter.
by Athena, 826NYC
In this poem, a student explores both the seen and unseen powers of a superhero.
by Kaitlyn, 826NYC
A creation myth reimagined in a poem.
by Evelyn Escamilla, 826 Valencia
This poem uses metaphors and similes to describe happiness.
by Guinevre, 826CHI
A persuasive letter with a few ideas on how to improve cafeteria lunches at school.
by Kyle I., Grade 6, Kansas City, MO
A gender-fluid student's call to action to the next U.S. president to protect LGBTQIA+ rights.
by Satis, 826 Valencia
A student argues for the importance of transgender rights in response to current events.
by Faisa Y., Grade 6, 826MSP
A student describes their comfort fairy imaginary friend.
by Marco, 826LA
A screenplay about a plane crash and an epic journey to Mexico, with a twist!
by Jin, 826LA
This student says thank you to her Mom, her hero, for a life full love and beef noodles!
by Marisa, 826michigan
A series of tweets about an adventurous cat named Marcus. #SuperCat #Meow
by Renee, 826NYC
A poem that explores all that a tree can stand for.
by Jalen, 826NYC
A series of superhero haiku inspired by engineering secret lairs.
by Jacore, 826 Valencia
An intriguing and educational essay discussing environmental consciousness and the devastating effects of global warming.
by Mady, 826 Valencia
A student examines the mermaid industry today through a historical lens that begins in the late-nineteenth century, turning fantasy into a profession.
by Isabella, 826CHI
A student describes a scrumptious five-course meal—everything except the vegetables, that is!
Vivien Norton, Age 12, 826michigan
A poet explores their love for writing with their friend.
by Talia, 826NYC
A creative field guide to Sea Lettuce.
by Claire Leiva, Grade 6, 826michigan
A poem about the writer's favorite animal--corgis!
by Gael, 826CHI
A poem about becoming a dancer.
by Penelope, 826 Valencia
In this superhero story, Super Duper Scarlet must save San Fran Superland from Doctor Nefario!
Jerieliz Garcia & Jaiden Vinti, 826NYC
Two poets braid together their reflections on where they come from.
A writer's fake news article about a miracle drug that can cure anything.
A writer's fake news article about a miracle drug that can cure anything.
by Milo, 826NYC
A creative origin story in which a programmer simultaneously creates life and biology in a program.
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 Amaya, 826michigan
A letter devoted to a favorite fruit that’s sweet and sour just like this student’s favorite candy: Sour Patch Kids!
by Kaiya S., Grade 6, 826DC
The harrowing tale of a super spy student vs. the villainous Mr.X.
by Joseline, 826DC
A personal narrative about a teensie, tiny bit of jealousy for a new baby sister turning into love.
by Kathryn, 826NYC
A very scientific origin poem about french fries, starting with an argument between the sun and the moon.
by John, 826NYC
A creative commentary on food justice in which Digestive Man defends local farms from Corn Boy and the Factory Farmers!
by Simone, 826michigan
A poem about appreciating trees and why we should study them.
by Athena, 826NYC
An "I Am From" superhero persona poem.
by Kevin, 826NYC
A wizened middle schooler offers the benefits of sixth grade to younger readers, sprinkling in a few tips to survive and thrive in their year ahead.
by Natalie, 826 Valencia
A recipe for how to create a legendary rapper.
by Harrison, 826michigan
A recursive poem that helps students explore the potential connections between math fractals and verse.
by Emmanuel, 826DC
A personal narrative about a tender first sighting between brothers on a family trip to El Salvador.
by Elsy, 826LA
Song lyrics about memories of cake and pizza, friendship, and giving 1,000 opinions.
by Gael, 826CHI
A short but powerful poem about the circular nature of history.
by Meredith, 826michigan
A poem about globe-sized dreams.
by Saeed, 826NYC
Food justice advocacy is reimagined by this student as an epic battle rages between Nutriman, Captain Nutritional, and Junkster in a school cafeteria!
by Alondra, 826CHI
An epic story of a princess who seeks acceptance among the stars.
by Destiny, 826NYC
In this poem, a student contrasts conflicting perspectives on the construction of the Dakota Access Pipeline.
by Daphne, 826 Valencia
A girl named Chloe embarks on a heroic mission after discovering a new super-identity: Fluffy Justice!
by Charlotte, 826CHI
A poem about spring!
by Janelle Suazo, age 12, 826 Valencia
A school dare gone horribly wrong!
by Angelina Do, Grade 6, 826 Valencia
A poem about living in the space between two cultures.
Jaylin Guevarro, Grade 6, 826NYC
A poet admires their loved one through this warming ode.
by Marisa, 826NYC
A student reports on Islamophobia, using research and interviews to explore this mindset and its damaging repercussions.
by Sophia, 826CHI
In this poem, a student makes some noise about resilience and beating the odds.
by Luis, 826LA
This student writes a letter to a hero with a sweet double kick: Jackie Chan!
by Valary K., Grade 6, 826 MSP
A story about a mysterious tunnel that leaves you on the edge of your seat!
by Madison, 826 New Orleans
This poem leaves the reader descriptive clues to help them guess the mystery food.
by Leslie, 826NYC
In this imaginative narrative about food justice, Golden Girl and LoLo go up against the evil Chemical Bug so kids everywhere can eat healthy fruits and vegetables.
by Khari Garris, New York, NY
A student remembers what life was like before the COVID-19 pandemic, and imagines a brighter day when schools reopen.
by Khloe Fewster, 826 Valencia
This poem uses repetition to give advice for when you're feeling unsure of yourself.
by Giovanna, 826NYC
An informative how-to on using a pen that can manipulate time and space.
by Luis, 826LA
A rap song dedicated to the Marvel comic writer Stan Lee and his inspired creations like the Hulk, Deadpool, Iron Man, and The Fantastic Four.
by Smila H., Age 10, 826LA
A powerful acrostic poem that shares an encouraging message.
by Jesús, 826 Valencia
In this superhero story, Spyman is on an important mission—saving donuts from becoming bagels!
by Kevin J. Ortiz, 826DC
A personal narrative about a trip to Ocean City, a lonely puppy, and sharing our fears with others.
by Lina, 826 Valencia
A mischievous recipe calling for 3 tablespoons of candy, 10 gallons of not laughing, and 100 gallons of mother.
by Wayne Gillyard, 826 Valencia
This poem shares the writer's love of all things yellow.
by Jose Martin Gomez, 826 Valencia
This poem celebrates a special person in the writer's life.
by Armaan, 826CHI
This author recounts the beginning of a family tradition: the best homemade sandwich ever!
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 Ramatoulie, 826DC
A student shares memories of transitioning from Gambia to a new home in the United States, complete with a snowy encounter.
by Chelsea, 826NYC
A creative field guide to Daddy Longlegs.
by Juna, 826michigan
A poem about taking the world in—and letting go.
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 Andres Santisteban-Perez, age 12, 826 Valencia
When playing video games night turned into a nightmare.
by Uma, 826NYC
A witty set of foolproof pickup lines.
by Krisbel D.L.M., Grade 6, 826 Valencia
A letter to the next President asking them to support immigration laws that will allow them to see their family.
by Najah, Grade 6, 826 MSP
A student appreciates and reflects on her mother's kindness over the years.
by Uma Cantone, 826NYC
Ever wonder what would happen if the sky fell? This student uses metaphor to explore new beginnings.
by Ari, 826CHI
In the Realm of Virtues, a search for attention and significance teaches these characters an important lesson about what it means to be human!
by Christian, 826michigan
In this resolution inspired by the "Include Someone" lesson and Cartoon Network storyboard, we learn that sometimes the easiest way to make someone feel included is by lending a hand.
by Charlotte, 826CHI
A collection of haikus spanning sushi to surviving the sixth grade.
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