Grades 5–8
Narrative, PlaywritingWritingScene 1
Setting: On an airplane
Marco: Are you enjoying the trip to Mexico?
Emmanuel: Yes, but something’s not right!
Pilot: Mayday! Mayday! We’re going down!
Marco: So that’s what’s not right!
Pilot: Find the nearest exit, we’re landing on water.
Narrator: Emmanuel and Marco take parachutes for a soft landing.
Emmanuel: Look, there’s an island! Let’s go there because we might find something or someone that can help.
Scene 2
Narrator: They swam to the island and found some coconuts.
Marco: Look! Maybe we can use the plane’s bits to make shelter.
Emmanuel: Whatever we do we have got to do it fast because in the distance, it looks like a storm!
Marco: C’mon we’ve got to try. Let’s collect rubbish to make a hut!
Narrator: Eventually their hut is complete.
Emmanuel: Quickly, get in! Close the hut!
Narrator: Lightning struck the hut and the tiny island is on fire!
Marco: Look out for that palm tree!
Emmanuel: This island is unstable! Look there—zombies!
Marco: Noooo! We died! Do you want to play Minecraft again?
Emmanuel: Sure!
Epilogue
Together: We ended up playing Minecraft again and again until we won the achievement we wanted to win. It’s called… Ultimate Survivor! The lesson of this story is: don’t get carried away with a video game!
by Robert, 826CHI
A poem that explores the struggles of mine workers.
by Guinevre, 826CHI
A persuasive letter with a few ideas on how to improve cafeteria lunches at school.
by Kayamaghi, 826NYC
A lab experiment goes wrong and a humble scientist must save Superhero Land from a super speedy villain!
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 Lina, 826 Valencia
A mischievous recipe calling for 3 tablespoons of candy, 10 gallons of not laughing, and 100 gallons of mother.
by Jalen, 826NYC
A series of superhero haiku inspired by engineering secret lairs.
by Kevin J. Ortiz, 826DC
A personal narrative about a trip to Ocean City, a lonely puppy, and sharing our fears with others.
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 Anjum, 826CHI
A shout-out poem to some things missed (Hyderabad) and celebrated (Mom).
by Anonymous, Grade 8, 826 Boston
In this poem from the 826 National anthology, Poets in Revolt!, a student reflects on identity.
by Kelsey F., Grade 5, 826 Valencia
This poem shares an honest look at a big feeling: anxiety
by Claire Leiva, Grade 6, 826michigan
A poem about the writer's favorite animal—corgis!
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 Sara Sofia Becerra L., Age 14, 826 Valencia
This poem shares the writer's love for music with the world.
by Duanté, 826 Valencia
A personal narrative about race and identity.
by Caira N., Grade 5, 826NYC
A student lists all the reasons why her school is the best!
by Isabel, 826 Boston
From the 826 National anthology, Poets in Revolt!, this poem features a student battling with the voices constricting her freedom.
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 V.G., 826LA
A poem that muses on the purpose of borders in question and answer format.
by Jin, 826LA
This student says thank you to her Mom, her hero, for a life full love and beef noodles!
by Salvador M., Grade 7, 826DC
A peaceful reflection on what type of place a student would be.
by Alonso, Grade 7, 826 Boston
An insightful set of instructions for surviving seventh grade, from a recent seventh grader in Boston.
by Giovanna, 826NYC
An informative how-to on using a pen that can manipulate time and space.
by Sharon, 826CHI
A memoir about finding true friendship.
by Joseline, 826DC
A personal narrative about a teensie, tiny bit of jealousy for a new baby sister turning into love.
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 Destiny, 826NYC
In this poem, a student contrasts conflicting perspectives on the construction of the Dakota Access Pipeline.
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 Dy’Stonie V., Grade 5, 826 New Orleans
A poem that highlights the bond between grandparent, grandchild, and a sweet perfume.
Dylan Sanderson, Grade 5, 826NYC
A student dreams of the most joyful place in the world--somewhere with their family and money!
by Brigid, 826CHI
A poem about facing fear—and learning how to shine.
by Wayne Gillyard, 826 Valencia
This poem shares the writer's love of all things yellow.
by Keila S.O., 826michigan
An “I Am From” poem about growing up in Detroit.
by Ximena Torres, Age 9, 826 Valencia
A poem about the lessons your family can teach you.
Zain L., Age 13, 826CHI
A poet fights to understand a crucial question.
by Sahir M., Grade 7
This poem uses metaphors to describe who the speaker really is.
by Emmanuel, 826DC
A personal narrative about a tender first sighting between brothers on a family trip to El Salvador.
by Zari P., Grade 4, 826DC
A playful "I am" poem that explores what's possible.
by Chidi A., Age 12, 826 Valencia
A poet hears the weight of history like music when playing basketball.
Jaylin Guevarro, Grade 6, 826NYC
A poet admires their loved one through this warming ode.
Nur Schlenker, age 10, 826 Valencia
Experience the sights and sounds of Halloween in this vivid poem.
by Natalia, 826CHI
A story told by her grandfather leads Betty on a journey where fiction and reality collide.
by Salimatou, Grade 5, 826NYC
Together, a princess with superpowers and an orphan-turned-sidekick must save the king and queen of kingdom Atarica!
by Hanako M., Age 10, 826michigan
A "sense"-sational poem about the flowers in their yard.
by Kenneth Vasquez, Age 10, 826 Valencia
A student reflects on their love of soccer.
by Andy, 826CHI
In this memoir, a few friends bond over a rare Pokémon Go catch.
by Djeneba Soumaoro, 826michigan
A student’s manifesto!
by Alondra, 826CHI
An epic story of a princess who seeks acceptance among the stars.
by Tylor, 826NYC
A lean but essential checklist for readers to determine if they are awake.
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.
Neveah H., Grade 5, 826NYC
Brooklyn is the place to be over the summer! A young writer reflects on how summertime cookouts bring family and community together.
by Eva, 826 Valencia
A student celebrates the journey of discovering whom to love.
by Elaine, 826 Boston
A diary entry reflecting on a secret mission to Mars!
by Mohamed F., 826 MSP
This poem uses descriptive language to leave the reader clues about the animal it is depicting.
by K.M., 826DC
In this piece, a student describes the challenges of being a superhero and reflects on their power to shine.
by Penelope, 826 Valencia
In this superhero story, Super Duper Scarlet must save San Fran Superland from Doctor Nefario!
by Maria, 826 Valencia
This student gives thanks to ordinary objects in an ode.
by John, 826NYC
A creative commentary on food justice in which Digestive Man defends local farms from Corn Boy and the Factory Farmers!
by Salome Maldonando, 826CHI
A poem about unrequited love.
by Sahni Yokley-Wash, age 9, 826 Valencia
Will this story's brave hero be able to survive a frightening forest adventure?
by Charm R., Grade 5, 826 New Orleans
This poem tells the story of a courageous little bird.
by Erriyanna, 826michigan
An epic poem about a younger sister. English and Spanish versions included.
by Harrison, 826michigan
A recursive poem that helps students explore the potential connections between math fractals and verse.
by Simone, 826michigan
A poem about appreciating trees and why we should study them.
by Arianny, 826 Boston
A student reflects on the beauty, flavors, and pride of being Latino.
by Luana Anticona Nolasco, age 10, 826 Valencia
An eerie encounter with a shapeshifter after a grocery run.
by Uma, 826NYC
A witty set of foolproof pickup lines.
by Marisa, 826michigan
A series of tweets about an adventurous cat named Marcus. #SuperCat #Meow
by Mabel Murray-Rudegeair, Grade 6, Minneapolis, Minnesota
This personal essay shares about the joy that comes from dancing in the rain.
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 Claire, 826CHI
A poem about “unfinding” what was known and learning to explore.
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 Kevin, 826NYC
An informational briefing on a horrible incident in the year 5176 that changed the hoverboarding industry forever.
by Charlotte, 826CHI
A collection of haikus spanning sushi to surviving the sixth grade.
by Diego, 826CHI
On the funniest day of this student’s life…
by Hope L.C., Age 10, 826DC
A silly story about dragon fruits -- no wait, fruit dragons!
by Camilla S.R., Grade 5, 826 Valencia
A student describes her imaginary friend from Funky Town.
by Natalie, 826CHI
Weaving together Spanish and English, a student shares the discovery of a family secret.
by Kayla, 826LA
This author reflects on an act of kindness to someone in need.
by Asa, 826CHI
This narrator embarks on a mysterious vacation in the sky!
by Ehmely, 826CHI
A crucial missive for anyone playing a high-stakes game of "Hide and Seek".
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 David, 826CHI
A student writes about the smell, taste, and pace of their neighborhood.
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 Emmanuel J., 826NYC
An avid basketball fan discusses the rise of the Golden State Warriors through its individual players.
Sizwe H., Age 13, 826michigan
A poet appreciates their loyal riding partner.
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.
Nur Schlenker, Age 10, 826 Valencia
A student paints two images, one of Halloween night, and the second of home.
Mahera A., Age 12, 826CHI
What happens when the only thing two people have in common is their love for each other?
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 Angel Flores Vazquez, 826 Valencia
This poem illustrates the effectiveness of descriptive language.
by Nicky, Grade 6, Salt Lake City, UT
The pen is mightier than the sword!
by Blanca Estrada, Age 14, 826 Valencia
This poem explores all of sides of a tender heart.
by Lesly, 826 Valencia
A sports poem about the losing blues.
by Chelsea, 826NYC
An acrostic poem about the Black Lives Matter movement.
by Chelsea, Grade 5, 826NYC
A student passes on their favorite tips for having fun and surviving fifth grade.
by Lyric White, age 10, 826 Valencia
A magical mountain quest to save a mermaid.
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 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 Ayana A., Grade 6, 826NYC
A student describes their fuzzy imaginary friend.
by Kiara, 826CHI
In this personal narrative, a student explores growing up young and black in Chicago.
by Curtis, 826michigan
A rhyming (inverse) ode to a very irritating noise.
by Makeia "Mason" Davis, Age 11, 826NYC
Not the Bacon Egg and Cheese Monster! This character profile brings a beloved breakfast sandwich to life in terrifying ways.
by Byanna & Kayla, 826CHI
Two students across one city bond by writing letters to each other about the people they love most.
by Ella H., Grade 6, 826DC
Settle in as this young storyteller spins a tale about Shady Street, where cats can talk and broccoli casserole helps solve conflicts.
by Jason, 826michigan
Making bottle flipping look like child's play, this piece outlines rules for the new, competitive Fantasy Sport "Pencils".
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 Elena Chambers, 826michigan
Thinking of Cherry Coke lip gloss, community, and dancing, this narrator celebrates life from their front stoop.
by Mariah Valenzuela, Minneapolis, MN
From the 826 National anthology, Poets in Revolt!, this poet uses her voice to speak up for those who have been silenced in the indigenous community.
by CA, Grade 7, 826CHI
A writer's honest view of who they are and their potential.
by Marie, 826CHI
A monkey named Chesley saves the animals of the forest from an evil Master!
by Liliana, 826DC
This student’s heartbreaking personal narrative describes what it can feel like to have your parents get divorced.
by Sebastian Cendejas, 826CHI
A student reflects on how much Chicago means to them.
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 Ivan Newton Ponce, 826 Valencia
This poem uses sensory details to describe the writer's favorite places.
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 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 Luis, 826LA
This student writes a letter to a hero with a sweet double kick: Jackie Chan!
by Mya, 826CHI
A piece packed with vivid description about taking risks at an ice rink.
by Athena, 826NYC
An "I Am From" superhero persona poem.
by Smila H., Age 10, 826LA
A powerful acrostic poem that shares an encouraging message.
Dominick Contreras Rodriguez, age 9, 826 Valencia
A student traces his identity through food and family.
by Naomi, 826michigan
A (mostly) love letter to a kiwi with delicious imagery.
by Meredith, 826michigan
A poem about globe-sized dreams.
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 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 Walter Linares, Age 11, 826 Valencia
The secrets of a spy in a red venom suit unfold...
by Winta, 826DC
A concise but essential list of survival tips in the event of a sweet disaster.
by Calvin, 826michigan
A student professes love—to a jalapeño!
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 Chloe Moreno, Grade 6, 826 Valencia, San Francisco, CA
An ode to being unapologetically yourself!
by Isabella C., Age 13, 826 Valencia
The misadventures of finding a missing wallet.
by Jeffrey, 826DC
In this "I Wish" poem, written in both Spanish and English, a student dreams of a more colorful world.
by Armaan, 826CHI
This author recounts the beginning of a family tradition: the best homemade sandwich ever!
by Judethan Garfias Muñoz, Grade 8, 826 Valencia
This loving poem uses descriptive language to pay tribute to the writer's family.
by Isabella Serrato, Grade 7, 826 Dallas Project
This poem uses sound devices to enhance the overall tone.
by Connor, Grade 5, Los Angeles, CA
Come adventure and defeat evil with a picklemobile full of superheroes!
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 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 Carolyn Danielle Wong, Age 9, 826 Valencia
In this poem, the writer showcases self-love and joy.
by Gabriella Mcclellan, Grade 5, 826michigan
This sci-fi piece shows the importance of talking things out with friends.
by Reyes, 826NYC
A creative field guide to the eastern gray squirrel.
by Juna, 826michigan
A poem about taking the world in—and letting go.
by the Class of 640 at M.S. 88, 826NYC
This bilingual poem shares an excellent recipe for how to survive middle school.
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 Joshua, 826CHI
Alien monsters and a young boy forge a friendship over a dramatic series of events.
by Jazmine & Vanessa, 826CHI
Over a series of letters, two compassionate and resilient students develop a deep friendship sealed in writing.
by Iliana, 826CHI
A student searches for answers in their community.
by Dahlia-Rose, 826NYC
A field guide to Queen Anne’s Lace and a day in the life from a flower’s perspective.
by Rafael, 826CHI
A student remembers an afternoon adventure around town and explores what Chicago and community mean to him.
by Violet Roberts, Grade 8, 826DC
This personal narrative explores the connection between music, place, and self-reflection. We recommend reading it while listening to the included playlist.
by Pearl L., Age 10, 826DC
A story about Rory the dragon, the defender of all genders.
by Marvin, Grade 5, 826CHI
A troubled ghost haunts a boy’s dreams.
by Athena, 826NYC
In this poem, a student explores both the seen and unseen powers of a superhero.
by Daphne, 826 Valencia
A girl named Chloe embarks on a heroic mission after discovering a new super-identity: Fluffy Justice!
by Jose Martin Gomez, 826 Valencia
This poem celebrates a special person in the writer's life.
by Kaitlyn, 826NYC
A creation myth reimagined in a poem.
Amara, 826 New Orleans
An ode celebrating an important figure in this student’s life.
by Maia Sears, 826michigan
This student describes exciting things the future will bring, like elevators that can reach space!
by Jesús, 826 Valencia
In this superhero story, Spyman is on an important mission—saving donuts from becoming bagels!
by Yarely, 826michigan
A poem about grandma. English and Spanish versions included.
Jerieliz Garcia & Jaiden Vinti, 826NYC
Two poets braid together their reflections on where they come from.
by Xaria, 826 Valencia
An argument against the wage gap that prevails in the U.S. and across the globe.
by Yvanna Bodiana, Age 13, 826 Valencia
A reflection on freedom and Black resilience in the face of opposition.
by Juliana Anderson, Grade 6, 826 MSP
This action-packed sci-fi story will keep you on the edge of your seat!
by Lola, 826 Valencia
A poem that portrays the arc of a love story told through the gift of a cigarette lighter.
by Milo, 826NYC
A creative origin story in which a programmer simultaneously creates life and biology in a program.
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 Kelis, 826NYC
On the planet Mars, Zoe must defeat the supervillain Zygorn to avenge her family! Wait—was it all a dream?
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 Jacob P., age 11, 826 LA
An iPad, a ghost, and an unexpected friendship.
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.
Vivien Norton, Age 12, 826michigan
A poet explores their love for writing with their friend.
Raquel Campos, Age 10, 826 Valencia
Three friends, inspired by a stream of butterflies, bake a beautiful cake.
by Jack, 826 Valencia
An argument against the overconsumption of sugar outlines the ways its effects are anything but sweet.
by Olivia, 826NYC
An elegy for corn.
by Sophia, 826CHI
In this poem, a student makes some noise about resilience and beating the odds.
by Kaiya S., Grade 6, 826DC
The harrowing tale of a super spy student vs. the villainous Mr.X.
by Marisol, 826michigan
A young girl's poem about all the life she sees in her yard. English and Spanish versions included.
by Arielle B., Grade 8
This poem invites readers to remember that people are often going through more than choose to show.
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 Lux, 826NYC
A student reflects on their experiences with bullying and how they’ll take a stand in the future.
by Girod, 826 New Orleans
This celebratory poem uses similes to list all of the things the writer loves about themself.
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.
Elsie, 826 New Orleans
In this poem, a student celebrates individuality.
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 Laila, 826CHI
A memoir about losing a parent—and a community’s support.
by Travis Cao, Age 8, 826 Valencia
This poem shows the importance of saying thank you to yourself!
by Jamie, 826 Valencia
A metaphorical poem about frustrations, from homework to homelessness.
by Jabari, Grade 8, 826 Valencia
A poem about wanting more from life.
by Jiaxi, 826CHI
A student’s worldview is forever altered after a lesson on the Segregation Era and Jim Crow.
by Vivian, 826CHI
A narrative about loving to run—and learning to never quit!
by Angelina Do, Grade 6, 826 Valencia
A poem about living in the space between two cultures.
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 Itzel Medina Luna, 826 Valencia
In this poem from the 826 National anthology, Poets in Revolt!, a student walks through her neighborhood searching for hidden stories.
by Shayne Williams
Discover what one student experiences when they tuck their phone away for a whole day.
by Aiden Spence, Grade 3, 826NYC
This poem describes all of the reasons why green is the best color.
Antonella Yoryor, Grade 6, San Francisco, CA
Meet Felice, the storytelling fox with a voice like the moon.
by Fahima Dahir, 826 MSP
A poem about the strength and limitations of language and shared culture.
by Jeremiah Borgella, Grade 7, 826NYC
This powerful poem is a reminder that being Black is a superpower.
by Jaceon B., Grade 4, 826 New Orleans
A student describes their butter covered imaginary friend.
by Kaitlyn, 826NYC
A middle school student firmly protests the flavor and quality of her school’s lunches.
by David & Daniel, 826CHI
In this heartfelt exchange of letters, two students bond over food, videos games, and some scary adventures.
by Felix E., 826 Valencia
A student's fear is conquered after a startling discovery.
by Evelyn DiRocco, Grade 5, Andover, MA
Evil doesn't stand a chance against this young superhero.
by Dayana Alvarado, 826CHI
A student shares finding home in two places: Mexico and Chicago.
by Renee, 826NYC
A poem about a place where ideas can grow.
by Faisa Y., Grade 6, 826MSP
A student describes their comfort fairy imaginary friend.
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 Kathryn, 826NYC
A very scientific origin poem about french fries, starting with an argument between the sun and the moon.
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 Jiyu Kim, Grade 7, Union Middle School, San Jose, CA
This poem shares the beautiful things that can happen when doubt fades away.
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 Sela, 826 MSP
This poem holds big dreams for the speaker's future.
by Renée, Grade 8, 826NYC
A persuasive letter detailing to the recipient the pointlessness of writing a persuasive letter. A helpful example for reluctant writers.
by Gael, 826CHI
A poem about becoming a dancer.
by Inge S., Age 13, 826CHI
Part riddle, part observations, this poem leaves the reader with big things to think about.
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 Sian Laing
When Instagram becomes an unsightly battlefield.
by Kevin, 826LA
A letter from the author to the author on appreciating both the unconventional and conventional parts of oneself.
by Uma Cantone, 826NYC
Ever wonder what would happen if the sky fell? This student uses metaphor to explore new beginnings.
Roberto Misael Aguilera, Age 9, 826 Valencia
Discover the fearful T-Rex Koala--koala by day, monster by night!
by Oscar, 826CHI
The story of a lifetime—literally.
by Sam, 826CHI
In this poem, a student pits mathematics against the unknown.
by Charlotte, 826CHI
A poem about spring!
by Janelle Suazo, age 12, 826 Valencia
A school dare gone horribly wrong!
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 Sumaya, 826 MSP
This poem uses analogies to describe different objects the writer would like to be.
Perla Ortega, Age 9, 826 Valencia
A poet sweetly appreciates a teacher for her kindness.
by Isabella, 826CHI
A student describes a scrumptious five-course meal—everything except the vegetables, that is!
by Nicole Torres, age 12, 6th grade, 826 Valencia
Because sometimes you just need to tune out the world.
by Ramatoulie, 826DC
A student shares memories of transitioning from Gambia to a new home in the United States, complete with a snowy encounter.
Willa Jones, Grade 8, Salt Lake City, UT
A young author explores a memory of stimming and captures the depth of their experience in a sparkling poem: "wishing I could shift into whatever form. / UNBOUND by what society expects. Free."
by Marisa, 826NYC
A student reports on Islamophobia, using research and interviews to explore this mindset and its damaging repercussions.
by Salma, Grade 5, 826 Boston
A student reminds herself of the many ways she shines
by Angel, 826CHI
A student writes about the transformative experience of changing schools.
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 Valary K., Grade 6, 826 MSP
A story about a mysterious tunnel that leaves you on the edge of your seat!
by Norah, Grade 5, 826DC
A student describes her mystical worm imaginary friend.
by Victor, 826 Valencia
This student gives thanks to ordinary objects in an ode.
by Jekaya, 826 Boston
A student reflects on what it takes to stand up to bullies and speak up for others.
by Jacore, 826 Valencia
An intriguing and educational essay discussing environmental consciousness and the devastating effects of global warming.
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 Najah, Grade 6, 826 MSP
A student appreciates and reflects on her mother's kindness over the years.
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 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 Caroline, 826 Valencia
A student explores U.S. soccer player Megan Rapinoe’s decision to kneel in protest during the national anthem.
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 Jeff, 826CHI
In this piece, a student describes Christmas as a holiday best spent together.
by Charlie, 826michigan
A very scientific retelling of why dinosaurs went extinct.
by Crystal Colorado, Age 12, 826 Valencia
This poem will take you to the beach and make you wonder if it was all a dream.
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 Javier, 826DC
A student wishes for unexpected pops of color.
by Khloe Fewster, 826 Valencia
This poem uses repetition to give advice for when you're feeling unsure of yourself.
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 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 Chelsea, 826NYC
A creative field guide to Daddy Longlegs.
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 Madison, 826 New Orleans
This poem leaves the reader descriptive clues to help them guess the mystery food.
by Elizabeth W., 826 Valencia
A persuasive piece for women and girls to unite and cultivate a culture of body image positivity.
by Victor, 826 Valencia
An ode to Beans, Rice, and Chicken.
by Robert, 826CHI
A collection of haikus spanning books and cosmology.
by Evelyn Escamilla, Grade 8, 826 Valencia
This poem uses metaphors and similes to describe happiness.
by Natalie, 826 Valencia
A recipe for how to create a legendary rapper.
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 Violeta, 826CHI
A monster's routine trip for tuna sandwich ingredients results in a broken arm!
Rachel G., Grade 5, 826NYC
A young writer teaches us the value of learning about different cultures.
by Aanikaa Ramesh, Grade 5, Camas, WA
Embrace your inner power!
by Satis, 826 Valencia
A student argues for the importance of transgender rights in response to current events.
by Christian Z., Age 14, 826 Valencia
A poet recounts his day out at the Yerba Buena Gardens.
by Abdinasir, 826 MSP
This poem shares what someone might experience on Halloween.
by Andres Santisteban-Perez, age 12, 826 Valencia
When playing video games one night turned into a nightmare.
by Renee, 826NYC
A poem that explores all that a tree can stand for.
by Keila, 826michigan
An "I Am From" poem. English and Spanish versions included.
by Eric, 826CHI
This student recounts a fictional chat with George Washington about the American Revolution over a meal.
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 Johnny Vasquez, 826 MSP
A family interview reveals a mother's painful past and shines a light on her persistence.
by Yasmeen Whitney, Age 9, 826 Valencia
This poem declares a student's love for snow globes!
by Jack, Grade 5, 826 New Orleans
In this transcript, a student shares three clear actions to stand up to bullies.
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 Victor, 826CHI
An epic memoir about an epic volleyball match! Who will win: the teachers or the students?
by Talia, 826NYC
A creative field guide to Sea Lettuce.
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 Cayden, Grade 8, 826DC
This poem lists all of the pieces that make up the writer's whole.
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