×
Grades level iconsGrade 5
Genre information iconFantasy/SciFi
Resource type iconWriting

Sky

by Camilla S.R., Grade 5, 826 Valencia
A student describes her imaginary friend from Funky Town.
About the Author

Camilla, age eleven, lives in a nine-story building in San Francisco. She can be smart and is very creative.

Normal imaginary friends come and go, but my imaginary friend, Sky, is not normal; she will never leave my side. Sky is, or can be, a bit goofy, but she knows when to be goofy and when to be serious. She likes to be a people-pleaser because when she was in other imaginations, she didn’t feel like herself. It was dark, gloomy, lonely, and she was underappreciated. 

I met Sky one day when I drew her and she started popping into my imagination. Sky lives in Funky Town, which she built in my imagination. Sky is in Funky Town whenever I’m not with her. Sky does karaoke in Funky Town, both when I’m with and without her. In Funky Town, it’s bright and colorful and it smells like whatever you want it to smell like. When I’m by myself, Sky joins me. Sky has a talent of when she can turn something from drab to fab. 


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.

Download the Materials
Download Default PDF Icon Download Resource PDF: Sky

See More Writing at this Level

Grades 4–5
Writing
How Bullying Makes You Feel
by Cartoon Network

by Lux, 826NYC

Informational

A student reflects on their experiences with bullying and how they’ll take a stand in the future.

Grade 5
Writing
Marvin and the Dream Monster

by Marvin, Grade 5, 826CHI

Fantasy/SciFi
Narrative

A troubled ghost haunts a boy’s dreams.

Grades 3–5
Writing
How Dinosaurs Went Extinct

by Charlie, 826michigan

Informational
Narrative

A very scientific retelling of why dinosaurs went extinct.

Grades 5–6
Writing
Scarlet’s Adventures

by Penelope, 826 Valencia

Fantasy/SciFi
Narrative

In this superhero story, Super Duper Scarlet must save San Fran Superland from Doctor Nefario!

Grades 4–5
Writing
Stuffed Crust

by Victor, 826 Valencia

Poetry

This student gives thanks to ordinary objects in an ode.

Grades 4–5
Writing
Eastern Gray Squirrel

by Reyes, 826NYC

Informational
Narrative
Poetry
STEM

A creative field guide to the eastern gray squirrel.

Grades 4–5
Writing
No Name the T-Rex Koala and his Adventures

Roberto Misael Aguilera, Age 9, 826 Valencia

Fantasy/SciFi

Discover the fearful T-Rex Koala--koala by day, monster by night!

Grades 5–6
Writing
Earth

by Kaitlyn, 826NYC

Informational
Poetry
STEM

A creation myth reimagined in a poem.

Grades 4–5
Writing
Queen Anne’s Lace

by Dahlia-Rose, 826NYC

Informational
Poetry
STEM

A field guide to Queen Anne’s Lace and a day in the life from a flower’s perspective.

Grades 5–6
Writing
Sea Lettuce

by Talia, 826NYC

Informational
Narrative
STEM

A creative field guide to Sea Lettuce.

Grades 3–5
Writing
Memories Through the Ages

by Keila, 826michigan

Memoir
Poetry

An "I A From" poem. English and Spanish versions included.

Grades 4–5
Writing
Mi Casa and The Skatepark

by Ivan Newton Ponce, 826 Valencia

Poetry

This poem uses sensory details to describe the writer's favorite places.

Grades 4–5
Writing
Floyd

by Hope L.C., Age 10, 826DC

Fantasy/SciFi

A silly story about dragon fruits -- no wait, fruit dragons!

Grade 5
Writing
What It Would Be Like In the Future! 2040

by Maia Sears, 826michigan

Fantasy/SciFi
Narrative

This student describes exciting things the future will bring, like elevators that can reach space!

Grades 3–5
Writing
The Letter

by Ehmely, 826CHI

Informational

A crucial missive for anyone playing a high-stakes game of "Hide and Seek".

Grades 4–6
Writing
Breathe

by Juna, 826michigan

Poetry

A poem about taking the world in—and letting go.

Grade 5
Writing
George Washington’s Meal

by Eric, 826CHI

Narrative

This student recounts a fictional chat with George Washington about the American Revolution over a meal.

Grades 5–6
Writing
Spyman

by Jesús, 826 Valencia

Fantasy/SciFi
Narrative

In this superhero story, Spyman is on an important mission—saving donuts from becoming bagels!

Grades 4–5
Writing
Chesley’s Life

by Marie, 826CHI

Fantasy/SciFi
Narrative

A monkey named Chesley saves the animals of the forest from an evil Master!

Grades 5–6
Writing
Owl Girl

by Athena, 826NYC

Fantasy/SciFi
Informational
Poetry
STEM

An "I Am From" superhero persona poem.

Grades 4–5
Writing
Relationship Poem

by Erriyanna, 826michigan

Poetry

An epic poem about a younger sister. English and Spanish versions included.

Grade 5
Writing
Once Upon a Time in the Crisis of 3016

by Matthew, 826CHI

Fantasy/SciFi
Narrative

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!

Grades 4–5
Writing
Luna in the Battle for Preservation

by Vanessa, 826CHI

Fantasy/SciFi
Narrative

A story about a mermaid named Luna and the epic battle to save Benzo, a rainbow-colored kingdom, using the power of love.

Grade 5
Writing
Baby Bird

by Charm R., Grade 5, 826 New Orleans

Poetry

This poem tells the story of a courageous little bird.

Grade 5
Writing
As I Smell a Flower in the Yard

by Hanako M., Age 10, 826michigan

Poetry

A "sense"-sational poem about the flowers in their yard.

Grades 5–8
Writing
The Great Achievement

by Marco, 826LA

Narrative
Playwriting

A screenplay about a plane crash and an epic journey to Mexico, with a twist!

Grades 4–5
Writing
The Story of the Wrecked Arm

by Violeta, 826CHI

Fantasy/SciFi
Narrative

A monster's routine trip for tuna sandwich ingredients results in a broken arm!

Grade 5
Writing
The Sky

Elsie, 826 New Orleans

Poetry

In this poem, a student celebrates individuality.

Grades 1–6
Writing
How to Prank Your Mother

by Lina, 826 Valencia

Informational

A mischievous recipe calling for 3 tablespoons of candy, 10 gallons of not laughing, and 100 gallons of mother.

Grade 5
Writing
Jack, aka DJ Beatmaker, on How to Stop Bullying

by Jack, Grade 5, 826 New Orleans

Informational

In this transcript, a student shares three clear actions to stand up to bullies.

Grades 5–6
Writing
Globes

by Meredith, 826michigan

Poetry

A poem about globe-sized dreams.

Grades 3–5
Writing
Three Poems Put Into One

by Yarely, 826michigan

Memoir
Poetry

A poem about grandma. English and Spanish versions included.

Grades 3–5
Writing
Magical Jealousy
by Cartoon Network

by Alyssa, Kevin, Gustavo, Jocelyn, and Gabriel, 826LA

Fantasy/SciFi
Narrative

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.

Grades 5–6
Writing
Cloud vs. Wind

by Daphne, 826 Valencia

Fantasy/SciFi
Narrative

A girl named Chloe embarks on a heroic mission after discovering a new super-identity: Fluffy Justice!

Grades 5–6
Writing
Mission: Life on Mars?

by Elaine, 826 Boston

Fantasy/SciFi
Narrative

A diary entry reflecting on a secret mission to Mars!

Grades 4–5
Writing
My Full Yard

by Marisol, 826michigan

Poetry

A young girl's poem about all the life she sees in her yard. English and Spanish versions included.

Grade 5
Writing
Poem

by Abdinasir, 826 MSP

Poetry

This poem shares what someone might experience on Halloween.

Grades 5–6
Writing
The Origins of Fries

by Kathryn, 826NYC

Fantasy/SciFi
Narrative
Poetry
STEM

A very scientific origin poem about french fries, starting with an argument between the sun and the moon.

Grades 4–5
Writing
The Story of Where I am From

Dominick Contreras Rodriguez, age 9, 826 Valencia

Poetry

A student traces his identity through food and family.

Grade 5
Writing
Mighty and the Three Kids

by Oscar, 826CHI

Fantasy/SciFi
Narrative

The story of a lifetime—literally.

Grades 4–5
Writing
Letter to Kiwi

by Naomi, 826michigan

Narrative

A (mostly) love letter to a kiwi with delicious imagery.

Grades 5–6
Writing
Pickup Lines Cheesier Than Cheddar

by Uma, 826NYC

Poetry

A witty set of foolproof pickup lines.

Grades 5–6
Writing
‘Salam, I Come in Peace’: Muslims Stand UP Against Islamophobia

by Marisa, 826NYC

Informational

A student reports on Islamophobia, using research and interviews to explore this mindset and its damaging repercussions.

Grade 5
Writing
The Big Strike

by Pearl L., Age 10, 826DC

Fantasy/SciFi

A story about Rory the dragon, the defender of all genders.

Grades 5–6
Writing
Seeing Snow

by Ramatoulie, 826DC

Memoir
Narrative

A student shares memories of transitioning from Gambia to a new home in the United States, complete with a snowy encounter.

Grade 5
Writing
The Story of Betty
by Cartoon Network

by Natalia, 826CHI

Narrative

A story told by her grandfather leads Betty on a journey where fiction and reality collide.

Grades 5–6
Writing
The Thing That Changes My Life

by Liliana, 826DC

Memoir
Narrative

This student’s heartbreaking personal narrative describes what it can feel like to have your parents get divorced.

Grades 4–5
Writing
Halloween Night & At Home

Nur Schlenker, Age 10, 826 Valencia

Poetry

A student paints two images, one of Halloween night, and the second of home.

Grades 4–5
Writing
Annabeth and the Death-Eating Ghost

by L.M., 826CHI

Fantasy/SciFi
Narrative

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.

Grade 5
Writing
The Worst Day Ever!

by Ana, 826DC

Memoir
Narrative

A student learns an important lesson about staying calm while recounting a trip to Olive Garden that spiraled out of control!

Grades 4–5
Writing
Crawfish

by Jaceon B., Grade 4, 826 New Orleans

Fantasy/SciFi

A student describes their butter covered imaginary friend.

Grade 5
Writing
The Perfect Friend-Making Space

by Caira N., Grade 5, 826NYC

Informational
Persuasive

A student lists all the reasons why her school is the best!

Grade 5
Writing
I Am Energetic

by Kenneth Vasquez, Age 10, 826 Valencia

Poetry

A student reflects on their love of soccer.

Grades 3–5
Writing
Memories Through the Ages

by Keila S.O., 826michigan

Poetry

An “I Am From” poem about growing up in Detroit.

Grades 4–5
Writing
Ronald’s Redemption

by Levi, 826NYC

Fantasy/SciFi
Narrative

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.

Grades 4–5
Writing
Corn and Sun

by Olivia, 826NYC

Narrative
Poetry

An elegy for corn.

Grade 5
Writing
The Miners

by Robert, 826CHI

Poetry

A poem that explores the struggles of mine workers.

Grade 5
Writing
The Spirit of Janet

by Natalie, 826CHI

Fantasy/SciFi
Narrative

A spirit named Janet haunts a dance studio as five young dancers arm themselves with a vacuum, a bottle, and the internet.

Grade 5
Writing
Dance

by Elena Chambers, 826michigan

Poetry

Thinking of Cherry Coke lip gloss, community, and dancing, this narrator celebrates life from their front stoop.

Grades 4–5
Writing
You’re the Chosen One

by Selene Freudenberg, 826michigan

Fantasy/SciFi
Narrative

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!

Grades 3–5
Writing
The Girl With the Sweater

by Jekaya, 826 Boston

Narrative

A student reflects on what it takes to stand up to bullies and speak up for others.

Grades 5–6
Writing
Freedom

by Smila H., Age 10, 826LA

Poetry

A powerful acrostic poem that shares an encouraging message.

Grade 5
Writing
Feeling Trapped, Now Gone

by Claire, 826CHI

Poetry

A poem about “unfinding” what was known and learning to explore.

Grades 3–5
Writing
I am Innocent: A Dragonbolt Story
by Cartoon Network

by Johny, 826 LA

Fantasy/SciFi
Media
Narrative

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.

Grades 4–5
Writing
WrestleMania 21-1

by Brayan Luna, 826michigan

Poetry

In this poem, a student vividly recounts watching The Undertaker perform a signature chokeslam on WrestleMania. Written in Spanish and English.

Grades 3–5
Writing
Why Green Crayon is Cool

by Aiden Spence, Grade 3, 826NYC

Poetry

This poem describes all of the reasons why green is the best color.

Grades 3–5
Writing
Superhero Stories

by K.M., 826DC

Fantasy/SciFi
Narrative

In this piece, a student describes the challenges of being a superhero and reflects on their power to shine.

Grades 5–6
Writing
The Acorn Avenger

by Jalen, 826NYC

Poetry
STEM

A series of superhero haiku inspired by engineering secret lairs.

Grade 5
Writing
Wormie

by Norah, Grade 5, 826DC

Fantasy/SciFi

A student describes her mystical worm imaginary friend.

Grades 3–5
Writing
The Future is a Reflection of Yourself

by Angel Flores Vazquez, 826 Valencia

Fantasy/SciFi

This poem illustrates the effectiveness of descriptive language.

Grades 5–6
Writing
Cheezy

by Madison, 826 New Orleans

Poetry

This poem leaves the reader descriptive clues to help them guess the mystery food.

Grades 3–5
Writing
How to Escape Chocolate Quicksand

by Winta, 826DC

Informational

A concise but essential list of survival tips in the event of a sweet disaster.

Grades 4–5
Writing
The Thing That Came from Above

by Joshua, 826CHI

Fantasy/SciFi
Narrative

Alien monsters and a young boy forge a friendship over a dramatic series of events.

Grades 5–6
Writing
Marshmallows

by Athena, 826NYC

Fantasy/SciFi
Poetry

In this poem, a student explores both the seen and unseen powers of a superhero.

Grades 5–6
Writing
Cat Tweets

by Marisa, 826michigan

Fantasy/SciFi
Media
Narrative

A series of tweets about an adventurous cat named Marcus. #SuperCat #Meow

Grades 3–5
Writing
Self-Portrait

by Girod, 826 New Orleans

Poetry

This celebratory poem uses similes to list all of the things the writer loves about themself.

Grades 3–5
Writing
The Lonely Homeless Child
by Cartoon Network

by Kayla, 826LA

Narrative

This author reflects on an act of kindness to someone in need.

Grades 4–5
Writing
Agent Smitty: The Athletic Astronaut

by Benny, 826 Boston

Fantasy/SciFi
Informational
Narrative

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.

Grades 5–6
Writing
Life Before and After Becoming President

by Kelis, 826michigan

Informational
Narrative

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!

Grade 5
Writing
I Wish / Deseo

by Jeffrey, 826DC

Poetry

In this "I Wish" poem, written in both Spanish and English, a student dreams of a more colorful world.

Grades 5–6
Writing
This is Just to Say

by Yanni, 826NYC

Poetry

This poem is written in the style of William Carlos Williams’ “This is Just to Say” and celebrates small acts of unapologetic joy.

Grades 4–5
Writing
Our School

Ms. Lowe’s Fourth Grade Class at Roberto Clemente Learning Academy in Detroit, Michigan

Poetry

An example of a "Neighborhood Poem" created as a class as part of 826Michigan's Rare Air/Aire Raro Young Authors' Book Project.

Grades 3–5
Writing
Animal Poem

by Mohamed F., 826 MSP

Poetry

This poem uses descriptive language to leave the reader clues about the animal it is depicting.

Grades 4–5
Writing
Beans, Rice, and Chicken

by Victor, 826 Valencia

Poetry

An ode to Beans, Rice, and Chicken.

Grades 4–5
Writing
The Story of the University of Pedro and Noel

by Noel, 826 Valencia

Narrative
Persuasive

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.)

Grades 1–6
Writing
A Rapper Legend

by Natalie, 826 Valencia

Informational

A recipe for how to create a legendary rapper.

Grade 5
Writing
Love Spell

by Dy’Stonie V., Grade 5, 826 New Orleans

Poetry

A poem that highlights the bond between grandparent, grandchild, and a sweet perfume.

Grades 4–5
Writing
If We Were In Charge

by Stefany Moreira, Vivi Small, Ana Rosas, Eugenia Rosas, and Jason Carrillo, 826NYC

Poetry

This poem describes a warmer, tastier world run by young people.

Grade 5
Writing
Saving Space

by Kelis, 826NYC

Fantasy/SciFi
Narrative

On the planet Mars, Zoe must defeat the supervillain Zygorn to avenge her family! Wait—was it all a dream?

Grade 5
Writing
I Wish / Deseo

by Javier, 826DC

Poetry

A student wishes for unexpected pops of color.

Grades 3–5
Writing
Thank You Teacher

Perla Ortega, Age 9, 826 Valencia

Poetry

A poet sweetly appreciates a teacher for her kindness.

Grades 5–6
Writing
Worried

by Kevin J. Ortiz, 826DC

Memoir
Narrative

A personal narrative about a trip to Ocean City, a lonely puppy, and sharing our fears with others.

Grades 5–6
Writing
My Father’s Surprise

by Emmanuel, 826DC

Memoir
Narrative

A personal narrative about a tender first sighting between brothers on a family trip to El Salvador.

Grade 5
Writing
Me, Myself, and I

by Salma, Grade 5, 826 Boston

Poetry

A student reminds herself of the many ways she shines

Grades 1–5
Writing
Me, Myself, and I
by Cartoon Network

by Kevin, 826LA

Poetry

A letter from the author to the author on appreciating both the unconventional and conventional parts of oneself.

Grade 5
Writing
The Story of Ivan Lane

by Kayamaghi, 826NYC

Fantasy/SciFi
Narrative

A lab experiment goes wrong and a humble scientist must save Superhero Land from a super speedy villain!

Grades 5–6
Writing
Haikus

by Robert, 826CHI

Poetry

A collection of haikus spanning books and cosmology.

Grades 3–5
Writing
Timber Rattle Snake

by Abdikabir, age 8, 826 MSP

Poetry

This poem uses the 1st person point-of-view to show what life looks like for a timber rattlesnake.

Grades 4–5
Writing
How to Capture the Mermaid from the Scary Forest

by Lyric White, age 10, 826 Valencia

Fantasy/SciFi
Narrative

A magical mountain quest to save a mermaid.

Grade 5
Writing
The Spy in the Red Venom Suit

by Walter Linares, Age 11, 826 Valencia

Fantasy/SciFi
Narrative

The secrets of a spy in a red venom suit unfold...

Grades 5–6
Writing
A New Life

by Joseline, 826DC

Memoir
Narrative

A personal narrative about a teensie, tiny bit of jealousy for a new baby sister turning into love.

Grades 4–5
Writing
Scary Stories

by Luana Anticona Nolasco, age 10, 826 Valencia

Fantasy/SciFi
Narrative

An eerie encounter with a shapeshifter after a grocery run.

Grades 4–5
Writing
Sushi Plates and Crisp, Clean Paper

by Maria, 826 Valencia

Poetry

This student gives thanks to ordinary objects in an ode.

Grades 3–5
Writing
The Obsidian Door

by Zaid Rodriguez, 826 Valencia

Fantasy/SciFi

This story immerses the reader in sensory details to tell the tale of what lies behind a mysterious door.

Grades 3–5
Writing
Me

by Faisa, age 9, 826 MSP

Poetry

This poem writes from the perspective of a Prairie Shooting Star flower, detailing a day in its life.

Grades 4–5
Writing
Funning

by Zari P., Grade 4, 826DC

Poetry

A playful "I am" poem that explores what's possible.

Grades 5–6
Writing
The Programmer

by Milo, 826NYC

Narrative
STEM

A creative origin story in which a programmer simultaneously creates life and biology in a program.

Grade 5
Writing
Superheroes Rule

by Salimatou, 826NYC

Fantasy/SciFi
Narrative

Together, a princess with superpowers and an orphan-turned-sidekick must save the king and queen of kingdom Atarica!

Grades 3–5
Writing
The Weirdness of 1:00 A.M.

by Felix E., 826 Valencia

Narrative

A student's fear is conquered after a startling discovery.

Grade 5
Writing
Slow

by Sumaya, 826 MSP

Poetry

This poem uses analogies to describe different objects the writer would like to be.

Grades 3–5
Writing
My Family

by Ximena Torres, Age 9, 826 Valencia

Poetry

A poem about the lessons your family can teach you.

Grades 5–6
Writing
Tree Poem

by Simone, 826michigan

Poetry
STEM

A poem about appreciating trees and why we should study them.

Grade 5
Writing
How to Survive Fifth Grade

by Chelsea, 826NYC

Informational

An academically-inclined student passes on their favorite tips for having fun before fifth grade starts.