Grades 5–8
Narrative, Playwritingby Penelope, 826 Valencia
In this superhero story, Super Duper Scarlet must save San Fran Superland from Doctor Nefario!
by Dahlia-Rose, 826NYC
A field guide to Queen Anne’s Lace and a day in the life from a flower’s perspective.
by Sophia, 826CHI
In this poem, a student makes some noise about resilience and beating the odds.
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 Giovanna, 826NYC
An informative how-to on using a pen that can manipulate time and space.
by Jiaxi, 826CHI
A student’s worldview is forever altered after a lesson on the Segregation Era and Jim Crow.
by Athena, 826NYC
An "I Am From" superhero persona poem.
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 Chelsea, 826NYC
A creative field guide to Daddy Longlegs.
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 Cora B., Grade 8
This narrative uses nature imagery, to help the reader walk through a day in the speaker's shoes
by Jin, 826LA
This student says thank you to her Mom, her hero, for a life full love and beef noodles!
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 Satis, 826 Valencia
A student argues for the importance of transgender rights in response to current events.
by Naomi, 826michigan
A (mostly) love letter to a kiwi with delicious imagery.
by Victor, 826 Valencia
An ode to Beans, Rice, and Chicken.
by Dayana Alvarado, 826CHI
A student shares finding home in two places: Mexico and Chicago.
by Alondra, 826CHI
An epic story of a princess who seeks acceptance among the stars.
by Keila, 826michigan
An "I A From" poem. English and Spanish versions included.
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 Ivan Newton Ponce, 826 Valencia
This poem uses sensory details to describe the writer's favorite places.
by Jose Martin Gomez, 826 Valencia
This poem celebrates a special person in the writer's life.
by Winta, 826DC
A concise but essential list of survival tips in the event of a sweet disaster.
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 Natalie, 826CHI
Weaving together Spanish and English, a student shares the discovery of a family secret.
by Laila, 826CHI
A memoir about losing a parent—and a community’s support.
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 Ehmely, 826CHI
A crucial missive for anyone playing a high-stakes game of "Hide and Seek".
by Liliana, 826DC
This student’s heartbreaking personal narrative describes what it can feel like to have your parents get divorced.
by Anjum, 826CHI
A shout-out poem to some things missed (Hyderabad) and celebrated (Mom).
by Chelsea, 826NYC
An academically-inclined student passes on their favorite tips for having fun before fifth grade starts.
by Kiara, 826CHI
In this personal narrative, a student explores growing up young and black in Chicago.
by Vivian, 826CHI
A narrative about loving to run—and learning to never quit!
by Sebastian Cendejas, 826CHI
A student reflects on how much Chicago means to them.
by Jamie, 826 Valencia
A metaphorical poem about frustrations, from homework to homelessness.
by Wayne Gillyard, 826 Valencia
This poem shares the writer's love of all things yellow.
by Athena, 826NYC
In this poem, a student explores both the seen and unseen powers of a superhero.
by Diego, 826CHI
On the funniest day of this student’s life…
by Jason, 826michigan
Making bottle flipping look like child's play, this piece outlines rules for the new, competitive Fantasy Sport "Pencils".
by Najah, Grade 6, 826 MSP
A student appreciates and reflects on her mother's kindness over the years.
by Yarely, 826michigan
A poem about grandma. English and Spanish versions included.
by Oscar, 826CHI
The story of a lifetime—literally.
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 Calvin, 826michigan
A student professes love—to a jalapeño!
by Marisa, 826michigan
A series of tweets about an adventurous cat named Marcus. #SuperCat #Meow
by Kevin, 826LA
A letter from the author to the author on appreciating both the unconventional and conventional parts of oneself.
by Kevin, 826NYC
An informational briefing on a horrible incident in the year 5176 that changed the hoverboarding industry forever.
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 Renée, 826NYC
A persuasive letter detailing to the recipient the pointlessness of writing a persuasive letter. A helpful example for reluctant writers.
by Duanté, 826 Valencia
A personal narrative about race and identity.
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 Maria, 826 Valencia
This student gives thanks to ordinary objects in an ode.
by Jabari, Grade 8, 826 Valencia
A poem about wanting more from life.
by Salome Maldonando, 826CHI
A poem about unrequited love.
by Simone, 826michigan
A poem about appreciating trees and why we should study them.
by Elena, 826michigan
Thinking of Cherry Coke lip gloss, community, and dancing, this narrator celebrates life from their front stoop.
by Charlotte, 826CHI
A collection of haikus spanning sushi to surviving the sixth grade.
by Kathryn, 826NYC
A very scientific origin poem about french fries, starting with an argument between the sun and the moon.
by David & Daniel, 826CHI
In this heartfelt exchange of letters, two students bond over food, videos games, and some scary adventures.
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 Faisa, age 9, 826 MSP
This poem writes from the perspective of a Prairie Shooting Star flower, detailing a day in its life.
by Elsy, 826LA
Song lyrics about memories of cake and pizza, friendship, and giving 1,000 opinions.
by Lesly, 826 Valencia
A sports poem about the losing blues.
Elsie, 826 New Orleans
In this poem, a student celebrates individuality.
by Victor, 826 Valencia
This student gives thanks to ordinary objects in an ode.
by Charlie, 826michigan
A very scientific retelling of why dinosaurs went extinct.
by Lina, 826 Valencia
A mischievous recipe calling for 3 tablespoons of candy, 10 gallons of not laughing, and 100 gallons of mother.
by Reyes, 826NYC
A creative field guide to the eastern gray squirrel.
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 Tylor, 826NYC
A lean but essential checklist for readers to determine if they are awake.
by Kaitlyn, 826NYC
A creation myth reimagined in a poem.
by Robert, 826CHI
A collection of haikus spanning books and cosmology.
by Caroline, 826 Valencia
A student explores U.S. soccer player Megan Rapinoe’s decision to kneel in protest during the national anthem.
by Angel Flores Vazquez, 826 Valencia
This poem illustrates the effectiveness of descriptive language.
by Joshua, 826CHI
Alien monsters and a young boy forge a friendship over a dramatic series of events.
by Chelsea, 826NYC
An acrostic poem about the Black Lives Matter movement.
Amara, 826 New Orleans
An ode celebrating an important figure in this student’s life.
by Marvin, 826CHI
A troubled young man ends up in another boy’s dreams.
by Elaine, 826 Boston
A diary entry reflecting on a secret mission to Mars!
by Sian Laing
When Instagram becomes an unsightly battlefield.
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 Arianny, 826 Boston
A poem that celebrates being Latino
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 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 Zari P., Grade 4, 826DC
A playful "I am" poem that explores what's possible.
by Javier, 826DC
A student wishes for unexpected pops of color.
by Natalia, 826CHI
A story told by her grandfather leads Betty on a journey where fiction and reality collide.
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 Victor, 826CHI
An epic memoir about an epic volleyball match! Who will win: the teachers or the students?
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 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 Kevin J. Ortiz, 826DC
A personal narrative about a trip to Ocean City, a lonely puppy, and sharing our fears with others.
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 Kelis, 826NYC
On the planet Mars, Zoe must defeat the supervillain Zygorn to avenge her family! Wait—was it all a dream?
by Emmanuel, 826DC
A personal narrative about a tender first sighting between brothers on a family trip to El Salvador.
by Talia, 826NYC
A creative field guide to Sea Lettuce.
by Alonso, 826 Boston
An insightful set of instructions for surviving a day as a 7th grader in the Boston Teachers Union School.
by Jack, 826 Valencia
An argument against the overconsumption of sugar outlines the ways its effects are anything but sweet.
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 Abdinasir, 826 MSP
This poem shares what someone might experience on Halloween.
by Cayden, 826DC
This poem lists all of the pieces that make up the writer's whole.
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 Kayla, 826LA
This author reflects on an act of kindness to someone in need.
by Lux, 826NYC
A student reflects on their experiences with bullying and how they’ll take a stand in the future.
by Jack, Grade 5, 826 New Orleans
In this transcript, a student shares three clear actions to stand up to bullies.
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 Sela, 826 MSP
This poem holds big dreams for the speaker's future.
by Marisa, 826NYC
A student reports on Islamophobia, using research and interviews to explore this mindset and its damaging repercussions.
by Shayne Williams
Discover what one student experiences when they tuck their phone away for a whole day.
by Guinevre, 826CHI
A persuasive letter with a few ideas on how to improve cafeteria lunches at school.
by Isabel, 826 Boston
From the forthcoming anthology, Poets in Revolt!, this poem features a student battling with the voices constricting her freedom.
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 Angel, 826CHI
Several friends harness a new source of energy and develop superpowers—with a surprise ending! Both Spanish and English versions available.
by Byanna & Kayla, 826CHI
Two students across one city bond by writing letters to each other about the people they love most.
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 Andy, 826CHI
In this memoir, a few friends bond over a rare Pokémon Go catch.
by Iliana, 826CHI
A student searches for answers in their community.
by Emmanuel J., 826NYC
An avid basketball fan discusses the rise of the Golden State Warriors through its individual players.
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 Salma, Grade 5, 826 Boston
A student reminds herself of the many ways she shines
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 Isabella Serrato, Grade 7, 826 Dallas Project
This poem uses sound devices to enhance the overall tone.
by David, 826CHI
A student writes about the smell, taste, and pace of their neighborhood.
by Joseline, 826DC
A personal narrative about a teensie, tiny bit of jealousy for a new baby sister turning into love.
by Milo, 826NYC
A creative origin story in which a programmer simultaneously creates life and biology in a program.
by John, 826NYC
A creative commentary on food justice in which Digestive Man defends local farms from Corn Boy and the Factory Farmers!
by Johnny Vasquez, 826 MSP
A family interview reveals a mother's painful past and shines a light on her persistence.
by V.G., 826LA
A poem that muses on the purpose of borders in question and answer format.
by Curtis, 826michigan
A rhyming (inverse) ode to a very irritating noise.
by Marisol, 826michigan
A young girl's poem about all the life she sees in her yard. English and Spanish versions included.
by Jalen, 826NYC
A series of superhero haiku inspired by engineering secret lairs.
by Rafael, 826CHI
A student remembers an afternoon adventure around town and explores what Chicago and community mean to him.
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 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 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 Arielle B., Grade 8
This poem invites readers to remember that people are often going through more than choose to show.
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 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 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 Jazmine & Vanessa, 826CHI
Over a series of letters, two compassionate and resilient students develop a deep friendship sealed in writing.
by Olivia, 826NYC
An elegy for corn.
by Jacore, 826 Valencia
An intriguing and educational essay discussing environmental consciousness and the devastating effects of global warming.
by Jesús, 826 Valencia
In this superhero story, Spyman is on an important mission—saving donuts from becoming bagels!
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 Maia Sears, 826michigan
This student describes exciting things the future will bring, like elevators that can reach space!
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 Luis, 826LA
This student writes a letter to a hero with a sweet double kick: Jackie Chan!
by 826NYC students
This collaborative poem explores the many sides and senses of laughter.
by Destiny, 826NYC
In this poem, a student contrasts conflicting perspectives on the construction of the Dakota Access Pipeline.
by Elizabeth W., 826 Valencia
A persuasive piece for women and girls to unite and cultivate a culture of body image positivity.
by Angel, 826CHI
A student writes about the transformative experience of changing schools.
by Sam, 826CHI
In this poem, a student pits mathematics against the unknown.
by Asa, 826CHI
This narrator embarks on a mysterious vacation in the sky!
by Claire, 826CHI
A poem about “unfinding” what was known and learning to explore.
by Salimatou, 826NYC
Together, a princess with superpowers and an orphan-turned-sidekick must save the king and queen of kingdom Atarica!
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 Felix E., 826 Valencia
A student's fear is conquered after a startling discovery.
by Khloe Fewster, 826 Valencia
This poem uses repetition to give advice for when you're feeling unsure of yourself.
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 Natalie, 826 Valencia
A recipe for how to create a legendary rapper.
by Mateo, 826CHI
An informative entry on the meaning and usage of a student-inspired word: doomungous.
by Mohamed F., 826 MSP
This poem uses descriptive language to leave the reader clues about the animal it is depicting.
by Harrison, 826michigan
A recursive poem that helps students explore the potential connections between math fractals and verse.
by Erriyanna, 826michigan
An epic poem about a younger sister. English and Spanish versions included.
by Eva, 826 Valencia
A student celebrates the journey of discovering whom to love.
by Eric, 826CHI
This student recounts a fictional chat with George Washington about the American Revolution over a meal.
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 Gael, 826CHI
A short but powerful poem about the circular nature of history.
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 Marie, 826CHI
A monkey named Chesley saves the animals of the forest from an evil Master!
by Evelyn Escamilla, 826 Valencia
This poem uses metaphors and similes to describe happiness.
by Charlotte, 826CHI
A poem about spring!
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 Uma, 826NYC
A witty set of foolproof pickup lines.
by Xaria, 826 Valencia
An argument against the wage gap that prevails in the U.S. and across the globe.
by Jeff, 826CHI
In this piece, a student describes Christmas as a holiday best spent together.
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 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 Kayamaghi, 826NYC
A lab experiment goes wrong and a humble scientist must save Superhero Land from a super speedy villain!
by Renee, 826NYC
A poem about a place where ideas can grow.
by Meredith, 826michigan
A poem about globe-sized dreams.
by Lola, 826 Valencia
A poem that portrays the arc of a love story told through the gift of a cigarette lighter.
by Sahir M., Grade 7
This poem uses metaphors to describe who the speaker really is.
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 Sumaya, 826 MSP
This poem uses analogies to describe different objects the writer would like to be.
by Robert, 826CHI
A poem that explores the struggles of mine workers.
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 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 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 Uma Cantone, 826NYC
Ever wonder what would happen if the sky fell? This student uses metaphor to explore new beginnings.
by Isabella, 826CHI
A student describes a scrumptious five-course meal—everything except the vegetables, that is!
by Mya, 826CHI
A piece packed with vivid description about taking risks at an ice rink.
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 Violeta, 826CHI
A monster's routine trip for tuna sandwich ingredients results in a broken arm!
by Gael, 826CHI
A poem about becoming a dancer.
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 Madison, 826 New Orleans
This poem leaves the reader descriptive clues to help them guess the mystery food.
by Djeneba, 826michigan
A student’s manifesto!
by Daphne, 826 Valencia
A girl named Chloe embarks on a heroic mission after discovering a new super-identity: Fluffy Justice!
by Sharon, 826CHI
A memoir about finding true friendship.
by Renee, 826NYC
A poem that explores all that a tree can stand for.
bookmark
download