Grades 6–8
Fantasy/SciFi, NarrativeWritingOn a small island lived a lonesome girl. An evil witch captured her and locked her up in a tower on a small island all alone because she was a princess. The witch was greedy, selfish, and mean and wanted nothing more than the princess’s wealth and inheritance of the kingdom. Surprisingly, the witch was not bad looking at all. She had a great sense of style, and was very, very manipulative.
The lonesome girl wanted nothing more than to be up in the stars with the constellations, high in the sky where all her problems would just disappear. The island was completely desolate with no human activity all around and she had the view of the whole place. All she could see were the trees, animals, and the ocean. She would do anything to be up there, absolutely anything. Every day she would go up a tower with a stack of wheat and a peacock feather and pray that the constellations would allow her to join them. The wheat and peacock feather were sacrifices from her religion to her gods.
One night as she was up on the tower, she slipped off the big open window, head first to the ground. She thought for sure that would be the end for her. Little did she know every night as she prayed to be up with the constellations, they actually heard her. She had her eyes shut, ready to die, but as she fell she was slowly turning up towards space, to the stars.
Once she stopped moving, she thought to herself, am I in heaven? She opened her eyes and saw that all the constellations had surrounded her with warmth and happiness. She had become a crane constellation. She had always wanted to be a bright beautiful star in the sky with all the other billions of constellations. She finally felt at home and was accepted as one of their own. She would never be alone again.
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by Sarah Kokernot, 826CHI
Students use illustrations as entry points to write stories about friendship from a new perspective.
by Mya, 826CHI
A piece packed with vivid description about taking risks at an ice rink.
by Sophia, 826CHI
In this poem, a student makes some noise about resilience and beating the odds.
by Juna, 826michigan
A poem about taking the world in—and letting go.
by Salvador M., Grade 7, 826DC
A peaceful reflection on what type of place a student would be.
by Dayana Alvarado, 826CHI
A student shares finding home in two places: Mexico and Chicago.
by Jabari, Grade 8, 826 Valencia
A poem about wanting more from life.
by Jazmine & Vanessa, 826CHI
Over a series of letters, two compassionate and resilient students develop a deep friendship sealed in writing.
Jaylin Guevarro, Grade 6, 826NYC
A poet admires their loved one through this warming ode.
by Andy, 826CHI
In this memoir, a few friends bond over a rare Pokémon Go catch.
by Elaine, 826 Boston
A diary entry reflecting on a secret mission to Mars!
by Madison, 826 New Orleans
This poem leaves the reader descriptive clues to help them guess the mystery food.
by Renee, 826NYC
A poem about a place where ideas can grow.
by Sela, 826 MSP
This poem holds big dreams for the speaker's future.
by Ibrahim, Grade 7, 826 MSP
In this letter from the Essential Words lesson, 7th grader Ibrahim thanks Nurses for the heart and soul they put into caring for their patients and fighting disease.
by Luke, 826 Valencia
An essay shared in English and Spanish discusses the effects of global warming on penguins and their source of nutrients, krill.
by Giovanna, 826NYC
An informative how-to on using a pen that can manipulate time and space.
by Rafael, 826CHI
A student remembers an afternoon adventure around town and explores what Chicago and community mean to him.
by Isabella, 826CHI
A student describes a scrumptious five-course meal—everything except the vegetables, that is!
by Brigid, 826CHI
A poem about facing fear—and learning how to shine.
by Itzel Medina Luna, 826 Valencia
In this poem from the forthcoming anthology, Poets in Revolt!, a student walks through her neighborhood searching for hidden stories.
by Jalen, 826NYC
A series of superhero haiku inspired by engineering secret lairs.
by Isabel, 826 Boston
From the forthcoming anthology, Poets in Revolt!, this poem features a student battling with the voices constricting her freedom.
by Khloe Fewster, 826 Valencia
This poem uses repetition to give advice for when you're feeling unsure of yourself.
by Johnny Vasquez, 826 MSP
A family interview reveals a mother's painful past and shines a light on her persistence.
Jerieliz Garcia & Jaiden Vinti, 826NYC
Two poets braid together their reflections on where they come from.
by Lola, 826 Valencia
A poem that portrays the arc of a love story told through the gift of a cigarette lighter.
by Natalie, 826CHI
Weaving together Spanish and English, a student shares the discovery of a family secret.
by Jacore, 826 Valencia
An intriguing and educational essay discussing environmental consciousness and the devastating effects of global warming.
by Andres Santisteban-Perez, age 12, 826 Valencia
When playing video games night turned into a nightmare.
by Janelle Suazo, age 12, 826 Valencia
A school dare gone horribly wrong!
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 Kevin, 826NYC
An informational briefing on a horrible incident in the year 5176 that changed the hoverboarding industry forever.
by Guinevre, 826CHI
A persuasive letter with a few ideas on how to improve cafeteria lunches at school.
by Duanté, 826 Valencia
A personal narrative about race and identity.
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 Liliana, 826DC
This student’s heartbreaking personal narrative describes what it can feel like to have your parents get divorced.
by Charlotte, 826CHI
A collection of haikus spanning sushi to surviving the sixth grade.
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 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 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 Gael, 826CHI
A short but powerful poem about the circular nature of history.
by Tylor, 826NYC
A lean but essential checklist for readers to determine if they are awake.
by Laila, 826CHI
A memoir about losing a parent—and a community’s support.
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 David, 826CHI
A student writes about the smell, taste, and pace of their neighborhood.
by Jesús, 826 Valencia
In this superhero story, Spyman is on an important mission—saving donuts from becoming bagels!
by Jose Martin Gomez, 826 Valencia
This poem celebrates a special person in the writer's life.
by Sebastian Cendejas, 826CHI
A student reflects on how much Chicago means to them.
by Uma Cantone, 826NYC
Ever wonder what would happen if the sky fell? This student uses metaphor to explore new beginnings.
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 Angelina Do, Grade 6, 826 Valencia
A poem about living in the space between two cultures.
by Christopher, Bryan, & Jahir, 826CHI
In an exchange of letters, three students across one city share stories about where they came from and the places that matter most.
by Elsy, 826LA
Song lyrics about memories of cake and pizza, friendship, and giving 1,000 opinions.
by Marco, 826LA
A screenplay about a plane crash and an epic journey to Mexico, with a twist!
by Jeff, 826CHI
In this piece, a student describes Christmas as a holiday best spent together.
by Arielle B., Grade 8
This poem invites readers to remember that people are often going through more than choose to show.
by Marisa, 826michigan
A series of tweets about an adventurous cat named Marcus. #SuperCat #Meow
by Renée, 826NYC
A persuasive letter detailing to the recipient the pointlessness of writing a persuasive letter. A helpful example for reluctant writers.
by Emmanuel, 826DC
A personal narrative about a tender first sighting between brothers on a family trip to El Salvador.
by Sahir M., Grade 7
This poem uses metaphors to describe who the speaker really is.
by Mariah Valenzuela, Minneapolis, MN
From the forthcoming anthology, Poets in Revolt!, this poet uses her voice to speak up for those who have been silenced in the indigenous community.
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 Kaitlyn, 826NYC
A middle school student firmly protests the flavor and quality of her school’s lunches.
by Armaan, 826CHI
This author recounts the beginning of a family tradition: the best homemade sandwich ever!
by Marisa, 826NYC
A student reports on Islamophobia, using research and interviews to explore this mindset and its damaging repercussions.
by Harrison, 826michigan
A recursive poem that helps students explore the potential connections between math fractals and verse.
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 Athena, 826NYC
In this poem, a student explores both the seen and unseen powers of a superhero.
by Simone, 826michigan
A poem about appreciating trees and why we should study them.
by Salome Maldonando, 826CHI
A poem about unrequited love.
by Emmanuel J., 826NYC
An avid basketball fan discusses the rise of the Golden State Warriors through its individual players.
by Jason, 826michigan
Making bottle flipping look like child's play, this piece outlines rules for the new, competitive Fantasy Sport "Pencils".
by Natalie, 826 Valencia
A recipe for how to create a legendary rapper.
by Claire Leiva, Grade 6, 826michigan
A poem about the writer's favorite animal--corgis!
by Asa, 826CHI
This narrator embarks on a mysterious vacation in the sky!
by Mateo, 826CHI
An informative entry on the meaning and usage of a student-inspired word: doomungous.
by Cora B., Grade 8
This narrative uses nature imagery, to help the reader walk through a day in the speaker's shoes
by Kiara, 826CHI
In this personal narrative, a student explores growing up young and black in Chicago.
by Kaitlyn, 826NYC
A creation myth reimagined in a poem.
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 Victor, 826CHI
An epic memoir about an epic volleyball match! Who will win: the teachers or the students?
by Uma, 826NYC
A witty set of foolproof pickup lines.
by Kevin J. Ortiz, 826DC
A personal narrative about a trip to Ocean City, a lonely puppy, and sharing our fears with others.
by Curtis, 826michigan
A rhyming (inverse) ode to a very irritating noise.
by Djeneba Soumaoro, 826michigan
A student’s manifesto!
by Charlotte, 826CHI
A poem about spring!
by Roger, 826 Valencia
An essay in English and Spanish that traces connections between two movements in modern American history for the rights of people of color.
by V.G., 826LA
A poem that muses on the purpose of borders in question and answer format.
by Kathryn, 826NYC
A very scientific origin poem about french fries, starting with an argument between the sun and the moon.
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 Isabella Serrato, Grade 7, 826 Dallas Project
This poem uses sound devices to enhance the overall tone.
by Ayana A., Grade 6, 826NYC
by Jin, 826LA
This student says thank you to her Mom, her hero, for a life full love and beef noodles!
by Sara Sofia Becerra L., Age 14, 826 Valencia
This poem shares the writer's love for music with the world.
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 Destiny, 826NYC
In this poem, a student contrasts conflicting perspectives on the construction of the Dakota Access Pipeline.
by Calvin, 826michigan
A student professes love—to a jalapeño!
by Kaiya S., Grade 6, 826DC
The harrowing tale of a super spy student vs. the villainous Mr.X.
by Sharon, 826CHI
A memoir about finding true friendship.
by Penelope, 826 Valencia
In this superhero story, Super Duper Scarlet must save San Fran Superland from Doctor Nefario!
by Anjum, 826CHI
A shout-out poem to some things missed (Hyderabad) and celebrated (Mom).
by Valary K., Grade 6, 826 MSP
A story about a mysterious tunnel that leaves you on the edge of your seat!
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 Reuben & Giselle, 826CHI
Two students write to each other about where they came from, what they love, and a few mishaps along the way in an exchange of letters.
by Annapoorani L., Grade 7, Seattle WA
A student recounts their experience with a school shooting in a letter to the next U.S. President to reform gun control.
by Jason, 826 Valencia
A student reports on the death of a college student from Bernal Heights, San Francisco, who neighbors believe was killed due to racial profiling.
by Christian Z., Age 14, 826 Valencia
A poet recounts his day out at the Yerba Buena Gardens.
by Inge S., Age 13, 826CHI
Part riddle, part observations, this poem leaves the reader with big things to think about.
by Daphne, 826 Valencia
A girl named Chloe embarks on a heroic mission after discovering a new super-identity: Fluffy Justice!
by Luis, 826LA
This student writes a letter to a hero with a sweet double kick: Jackie Chan!
by Sian Laing
When Instagram becomes an unsightly battlefield.
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 Joseline, 826DC
A personal narrative about a teensie, tiny bit of jealousy for a new baby sister turning into love.
by Renee, 826NYC
A poem that explores all that a tree can stand for.
by Ella, 826 Valencia
A persuasive argument for co-ed teams in the face of gender stereotypes, supported by results from primary research conducted by the author.
by Xaria, 826 Valencia
An argument against the wage gap that prevails in the U.S. and across the globe.
by Isabella C., Age 13, 826 Valencia
The misadventures of finding a missing wallet.
by Wayne Gillyard, 826 Valencia
This poem shares the writer's love of all things yellow.
by Elizabeth W., 826 Valencia
A persuasive piece for women and girls to unite and cultivate a culture of body image positivity.
by Cayden, 826DC
This poem lists all of the pieces that make up the writer's whole.
by Jiaxi, 826CHI
A student’s worldview is forever altered after a lesson on the Segregation Era and Jim Crow.
by Arianny, 826 Boston
A poem that celebrates being Latino
by Milo, 826NYC
A creative origin story in which a programmer simultaneously creates life and biology in a program.
by Madison, 826CHI
In this compelling essay, a student rejects apathy and explores what really matters in conversations about solving gun violence towards black and brown men.
by Shayne Williams
Discover what one student experiences when they tuck their phone away for a whole day.
by Lina, 826 Valencia
A mischievous recipe calling for 3 tablespoons of candy, 10 gallons of not laughing, and 100 gallons of mother.
by Sam, 826CHI
In this poem, a student pits mathematics against the unknown.
by Piya, 826 Valencia
A demand to the public stop to buying ivory that seeks to explain the devastating effects of poaching on elephant and rhino populations.
by Henry, Matthew, & Santiago, 826CHI
A compilation of letters written by three students across one city filled with thoughts on books, sports, music, family, and musings on Valentine’s Day.
by Chelsea, 826NYC
An acrostic poem about the Black Lives Matter movement.
by Caroline, 826 Valencia
A student explores U.S. soccer player Megan Rapinoe’s decision to kneel in protest during the national anthem.
by Najah, Grade 6, 826 MSP
A student appreciates and reflects on her mother's kindness over the years.
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 Smila H., Age 10, 826LA
A powerful acrostic poem that shares an encouraging message.
by Chelsea, 826NYC
A creative field guide to Daddy Longlegs.
by John, 826NYC
A creative commentary on food justice in which Digestive Man defends local farms from Corn Boy and the Factory Farmers!
by Evelyn Escamilla, 826 Valencia
This poem uses metaphors and similes to describe happiness.
by CA, Grade 7, 826CHI
A writer's honest view of who they are and their potential.
by Gabriela T., 826 Valencia
In this resolution inspired by the "Include Someone" lesson and Cartoon Network storyboard, we learn that inclusive leaders take action—they don't wait for others to make a difference.
by Gael, 826CHI
A poem about becoming a dancer.
by Jack, 826 Valencia
An argument against the overconsumption of sugar outlines the ways its effects are anything but sweet.
by Angel, 826CHI
A student writes about the transformative experience of changing schools.
by Robert, 826CHI
A collection of haikus spanning books and cosmology.
by Diego, 826CHI
On the funniest day of this student’s life…
by Anonymous, Grade 8, 826 Boston
In this poem, a student reflects on identity.
by Lesly, 826 Valencia
A sports poem about the losing blues.
by Faisa Y., Grade 6, 826MSP
A student describes their comfort fairy imaginary friend.
by Vivian, 826CHI
A narrative about loving to run—and learning to never quit!
by Byanna & Kayla, 826CHI
Two students across one city bond by writing letters to each other about the people they love most.
by Issa Caothien, 826NYC
In this resolution inspired by the "Include Someone" lesson and Cartoon Network storyboard, we learn that if you work together, you're golden!
by Alonso, 826 Boston
An insightful set of instructions for surviving a day as a 7th grader in the Boston Teachers Union School.
by Satis, 826 Valencia
A student argues for the importance of transgender rights in response to current events.
by David & Daniel, 826CHI
In this heartfelt exchange of letters, two students bond over food, videos games, and some scary adventures.
Amara, 826 New Orleans
An ode celebrating an important figure in this student’s life.
by Eva, 826 Valencia
A student celebrates the journey of discovering whom to love.
by Talia, 826NYC
A creative field guide to Sea Lettuce.
by Angel, 826CHI
Several friends harness a new source of energy and develop superpowers—with a surprise ending! Both Spanish and English versions available.
by William, 826LA
A teen discovers the power of books to transport him to another world, and shares his excitement about becoming a published author.
by Jamie, 826 Valencia
A metaphorical poem about frustrations, from homework to homelessness.
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 Meredith, 826michigan
A poem about globe-sized dreams.
by Calvin, 826michigan
A laugh-out-loud personal narrative about a crush. Has your heart ever beat so fast it might get a speeding ticket and a $500 fine?
by Iliana, 826CHI
A student searches for answers in their community.
by Pia, 826NYC
A student reimagines food justice: Fruit Woman must convince Junk Food Man and Cheesecake Boy to eat their fruits and vegetables.
by Fahima Dahir, 826 MSP
A poem about the strength and limitations of language and shared culture.
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