Grades 4–5
NarrativeWritingOnce there were three cousins. Two were eleven years old and one was seven years old. They moved to a cottage in Mexico for the first time. One day, they decided to have a picnic near the lake in front of their home. Then it started getting very sunny! They heard flaps like a bird flapping its wings, and it was a group of different types of butterflies. One even landed in the youngest’s hair. The butterflies then made themselves a home in the girls’ garden!
Then the girls cleaned up and went inside their home. They opened the windows because it got really hot in their house. Then all of a sudden some butterflies were flying in through the windows! The middle girl (me, Raquel) got cold and closed all the windows. It was already night!
Then they decided to bake a cake the next day after breakfast. They made this three-layer, pastel, purple cake with a little garden on top, but then a few butterflies landed on the cake. The girls loved how it looked so they made paper butterflies and got some toothpicks to hold the butterflies still. The girls loved how it turned out and took many pictures!
Then they took it to their friend who was a baker and they took care of butterflies. He owned his own bakery! They gave it to him and everyone wanted it. Everyone tried to offer hundreds of dollars for it but it was there for a day in a fridge but then was sold to someone. Then they made more for other customers. This cake is for any occasion: weddings, birthdays, anniversaries, and baby showers! Their cake became internet famous all over the world!
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 Kelis, 826NYC
On the planet Mars, Zoe must defeat the supervillain Zygorn to avenge her family! Wait—was it all a dream?
by Luana Anticona Nolasco, age 10, 826 Valencia
An eerie encounter with a shapeshifter after a grocery run.
by Madison, 826 New Orleans
This poem leaves the reader descriptive clues to help them guess the mystery food.
by Antoni L., 826DC
In this poem, the author discusses their origins through metaphor.
by Javier, 826DC
A student wishes for unexpected pops of color.
by Talia, 826NYC
A creative field guide to Sea Lettuce.
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 Fatima, 826michigan
A list poem about a beautiful room and a beautiful family in both English and Spanish.
by Juna, 826michigan
A poem about taking the world in—and letting go.
by Marisa, 826michigan
A series of tweets about an adventurous cat named Marcus. #SuperCat #Meow
by Yarely, 826michigan
A poem about grandma. English and Spanish versions included.
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 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 Will, 826michigan
A student imagines life in the future.
by Robert, 826CHI
A poem that explores the struggles of mine workers.
by Kayla, 826LA
This author reflects on an act of kindness to someone in need.
by Ehmely, 826CHI
A crucial missive for anyone playing a high-stakes game of "Hide and Seek".
by Elaine, 826 Boston
A diary entry reflecting on a secret mission to Mars!
by Jaceon B., Grade 4, 826 New Orleans
A student describes their butter covered imaginary friend.
by Norah, Grade 5, 826DC
A student describes her mystical worm imaginary friend.
Roberto Misael Aguilera, Age 9, 826 Valencia
Discover the fearful T-Rex Koala--koala by day, monster by night!
Nur Schlenker, Age 10, 826 Valencia
A student paints two images, one of Halloween night, and the second of home.
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 Joseline, 826DC
A personal narrative about a teensie, tiny bit of jealousy for a new baby sister turning into love.
by Lux, 826NYC
A student reflects on their experiences with bullying and how they’ll take a stand in the future.
by Christian, 826 New Orleans
This poem uses personification to introduce the audience to an olive and its cousin, Jeff.
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 Victor, 826 Valencia
This student gives thanks to ordinary objects in an ode.
by Dahlia-Rose, 826NYC
A field guide to Queen Anne’s Lace and a day in the life from a flower’s perspective.
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 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 Smila H., Age 10, 826LA
A powerful acrostic poem that shares an encouraging message.
by Charlie, 826michigan
A very scientific retelling of why dinosaurs went extinct.
by Jonathan Rivera Navarro, 826 Valencia
This poem celebrates and mourns a taco.
by Caleigh, 826LA
A letter offering a concise yet compelling list of all that awaits in LA.
by Camilla S.R., Grade 5, 826 Valencia
A student describes her imaginary friend from Funky Town.
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 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 Keila S.O., 826michigan
An “I Am From” poem about growing up in Detroit.
by Naomi, 826michigan
A (mostly) love letter to a kiwi with delicious imagery.
by Ciaran, 826NYC
A creative field guide to a Mourning Cloak butterfly who lives in New York City.
by Elian de Leon, 826NYC
A poem that focuses on color and translates it into sensory details.
by Joshua, 826CHI
Alien monsters and a young boy forge a friendship over a dramatic series of events.
by Dy’Stonie V., Grade 5, 826 New Orleans
A poem that highlights the bond between grandparent, grandchild, and a sweet perfume.
by Simone, 826michigan
A poem about appreciating trees and why we should study them.
by Lina, 826 Valencia
A mischievous recipe calling for 3 tablespoons of candy, 10 gallons of not laughing, and 100 gallons of mother.
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 Aiden Spence, Grade 3, 826NYC
This poem describes all of the reasons why green is the best color.
by Violeta, 826CHI
A monster's routine trip for tuna sandwich ingredients results in a broken arm!
by Damian A., Grade 4, 826CHI
A student describes their bear-y fun imaginary friend.
by Keila, 826michigan
An "I A From" poem. English and Spanish versions included.
by Emmanuel, 826DC
A personal narrative about a tender first sighting between brothers on a family trip to El Salvador.
by Caira N., Grade 5, 826NYC
A student lists all the reasons why her school is the best!
by Alfredo Enriquez-Aguilar, 826 Valencia
Have you ever wanted to care for a dragon? This poem teaches you how.
by Ayelen C., Age 9, 826 Valencia
A student's sweet letter to their grandmother.
by Jekaya, 826 Boston
A student reflects on what it takes to stand up to bullies and speak up for others.
by Kathryn, 826NYC
A very scientific origin poem about french fries, starting with an argument between the sun and the moon.
by Marvin, Grade 5, 826CHI
A troubled ghost haunts a boy’s dreams.
by Salma, Grade 5, 826 Boston
A student reminds herself of the many ways she shines
by Chelsea, 826NYC
An academically-inclined student passes on their favorite tips for having fun before fifth grade starts.
Dylan Sanderson, Grade 5, 826 NYC
A student dreams of the most joyful place in the world--somewhere with their family and money!
by Quinn, 826CHI
A piece that explores the dynamic nature of love and might just become your next Valentine's Day card.
by Walter Linares, Age 11, 826 Valencia
The secrets of a spy in a red venom suit unfold...
by Milo, 826NYC
A creative origin story in which a programmer simultaneously creates life and biology in a program.
Dominick Contreras Rodriguez, age 9, 826 Valencia
A student traces his identity through food and family.
by Claire, 826CHI
A poem about “unfinding” what was known and learning to explore.
by Marisa, 826NYC
A student reports on Islamophobia, using research and interviews to explore this mindset and its damaging repercussions.
by Felix E., 826 Valencia
A student's fear is conquered after a startling discovery.
by Natalie, 826 Valencia
A recipe for how to create a legendary rapper.
by Emma D., Grade 4, 826LA
A plea to the next President to provide better access to mental health treatment for youth.
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 Pearl L., Age 10, 826DC
A story about Rory the dragon, the defender of all genders.
Nasir Farmer, Age 8, 826 Boston
Our protagonist attempts to evade a boogieman invasion.
Noah Jean Marie, Age 9, 826 NYC
A poet captures the freedom of dancing.
by Mohamed F., 826 MSP
This poem uses descriptive language to leave the reader clues about the animal it is depicting.
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 Penelope, 826 Valencia
In this superhero story, Super Duper Scarlet must save San Fran Superland from Doctor Nefario!
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 Maria, 826 Valencia
This student gives thanks to ordinary objects in an ode.
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 Eric, 826CHI
This student recounts a fictional chat with George Washington about the American Revolution over a meal.
by Kenneth Vasquez, Age 10, 826 Valencia
A student reflects on their love of soccer.
by K.M., 826DC
In this piece, a student describes the challenges of being a superhero and reflects on their power to shine.
by Marie, 826CHI
A monkey named Chesley saves the animals of the forest from an evil Master!
by Maia Sears, 826michigan
This student describes exciting things the future will bring, like elevators that can reach space!
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 Zaid Rodriguez, 826 Valencia
This story immerses the reader in sensory details to tell the tale of what lies behind a mysterious door.
by Kaitlyn, 826NYC
A creation myth reimagined in a poem.
by Sumaya, 826 MSP
This poem uses analogies to describe different objects the writer would like to be.
by Jack, Grade 5, 826 New Orleans
In this transcript, a student shares three clear actions to stand up to bullies.
by Marco, 826LA
A screenplay about a plane crash and an epic journey to Mexico, with a twist!
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 Camila R.G., Grade 4, 826LA
In this letter, a student asks the next U.S. President to help the homeless.
by Lyric White, age 10, 826 Valencia
A magical mountain quest to save a mermaid.
by Hope L.C., Age 10, 826DC
A silly story about dragon fruits -- no wait, fruit dragons!
by Salimatou, 826NYC
Together, a princess with superpowers and an orphan-turned-sidekick must save the king and queen of kingdom Atarica!
by Uma, 826NYC
A witty set of foolproof pickup lines.
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.
Perla Ortega, Age 9, 826 Valencia
A poet sweetly appreciates a teacher for her kindness.
by Kevin, 826LA
A letter from the author to the author on appreciating both the unconventional and conventional parts of oneself.
by Kevin J. Ortiz, 826DC
A personal narrative about a trip to Ocean City, a lonely puppy, and sharing our fears with others.
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 Athena, 826NYC
An "I Am From" superhero persona poem.
by Giannyl Guerrero Cabral, 826 Boston
A practical list of ways anyone can stop bullying.
Elsie, 826 New Orleans
In this poem, a student celebrates individuality.
by Jalen, 826NYC
A series of superhero haiku inspired by engineering secret lairs.
by Erriyanna, 826michigan
An epic poem about a younger sister. English and Spanish versions included.
by Girod, 826 New Orleans
This celebratory poem uses similes to list all of the things the writer loves about themself.
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 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 Donald W., Grade 4, 826michigan
A student describes their very helpful imaginary friend.
by Jesús, 826 Valencia
In this superhero story, Spyman is on an important mission—saving donuts from becoming bagels!
by Marisol, 826michigan
A young girl's poem about all the life she sees in her yard. English and Spanish versions included.
by Liliana, 826DC
This student’s heartbreaking personal narrative describes what it can feel like to have your parents get divorced.
by Hanako M., Age 10, 826michigan
A "sense"-sational poem about the flowers in their yard.
by Alexa, 826michigan
A poem that tastes like pepperoni pizza.
Ren, 826 New Orleans
In this poem, a student explores what summer means to them.
by Robert, 826CHI
A collection of haikus spanning books and cosmology.
by Ava Tassinari, 826 Boston
A story about a bullying incident on the school bus.
by Daphne, 826 Valencia
A girl named Chloe embarks on a heroic mission after discovering a new super-identity: Fluffy Justice!
by Winta, 826DC
A concise but essential list of survival tips in the event of a sweet disaster.
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 Ivan Newton Ponce, 826 Valencia
This poem uses sensory details to describe the writer's favorite places.
by Athena, 826NYC
In this poem, a student explores both the seen and unseen powers of a superhero.
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 Abdinasir, 826 MSP
This poem shares what someone might experience on Halloween.
by Reyes, 826NYC
A creative field guide to the eastern gray squirrel.
Raven, 826 New Orleans
You guessed it—an ode to cookies.
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 Ximena Torres, Age 9, 826 Valencia
A poem about the lessons your family can teach you.
by Meredith, 826michigan
A poem about globe-sized dreams.
by Luis Cornejo, age 9, 826 Valencia
A student recalls the first time they saw a ghost.
by Natalia, 826CHI
A story told by her grandfather leads Betty on a journey where fiction and reality collide.
by Angel Flores Vazquez, 826 Valencia
This poem illustrates the effectiveness of descriptive language.
by Jeffrey, 826DC
In this "I Wish" poem, written in both Spanish and English, a student dreams of a more colorful world.
by Alan, 826DC
This poem describes the thoughts of hunger.
Vivien Norton, Age 12, 826michigan
A poet explores their love for writing with their friend.
by Olivia, 826NYC
An elegy for corn.
by Kayamaghi, 826NYC
A lab experiment goes wrong and a humble scientist must save Superhero Land from a super speedy villain!
by Rechab T., 826DC
This poem takes a surreal approach to describing a scene.
by Victor, 826 Valencia
An ode to Beans, Rice, and Chicken.
by Zari P., Grade 4, 826DC
A playful "I am" poem that explores what's possible.
by Elena Chambers, 826michigan
Thinking of Cherry Coke lip gloss, community, and dancing, this narrator celebrates life from their front stoop.
by Charm R., Grade 5, 826 New Orleans
This poem tells the story of a courageous little bird.
by Oscar, 826CHI
The story of a lifetime—literally.
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