A poem about the strength and limitations of language and shared culture.

A poem for lovers of love and the moon.

The stunning and vulnerable poem processes feelings of loss, grief, and hope for the future.

This poem gives insight to what it's like growing up Black in America.

A student is lifted up by the dance of her ancestors.

A story about how Marcus becomes Marcela.

This poem uses a fundamental poetry technique, repetition, to share the writer's future plans.

In this poem, a student reflects on their roots and their desire to grow.

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.

This poet rejects judgement based on the color of one’s skin.

Liner notes that showcase the meaning and musicality of the Jimmy Ruffin song “What Becomes of the Brokenhearted.”

Discover what one student experiences when they tuck their phone away for a whole day.

Two students across one city bond by writing letters to each other about the people they love most.

When Instagram becomes an unsightly battlefield.

An ode celebrating an important figure in this student’s life.

In this heartfelt exchange of letters, two students bond over food, videos games, and some scary adventures.

The written word is a powerful tool, and this poem shares a few reasons why the author continues to write.

A bilingual "I am" poem filled with conviction and courage.

This poem uses metaphors and similes to explore many dualities of the narrator's life.

A student explores the paradox of how technology is used amongst teenagers.

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.

In this letter from the Essential Words lesson, a sophomore at South High School in Minneapolis gives thanks to Children’s Hospital employees.

A student compellingly argues that immigrants deserve respect and to be free of discrimination.

This narrative calls us to see the world through the perspectives of others.

In this letter from the Essential Words lesson, a freshman at South High School in Minneapolis thanks care workers for supporting our local and national communities during this global pandemic.

A powerful poem that lifts up Black women.

A poet recounts his day out at the Yerba Buena Gardens.

A student explores U.S. soccer player Megan Rapinoe’s decision to kneel in protest during the national anthem.

This poem personifies Earth as a mother coping with the brutalities of climate change.

A poem about staying true to yourself during a challenging transition

One student explores their online persona and the lasting importance of conscientious social media practices.

A shout-out poem to some things missed (Hyderabad) and celebrated (Mom).

A student reflects on his life, stemming from the life of his father.

Peek into the mind of a student who considers artistic influences in her life.

Even though we may look different, we remain united with one another.

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.

A student recalls their journey on how they discovered their LGBTQIA+ identity.

A student reflects on a small moment and single sacrifice that transformed her outlook on giving.

A teen discovers the power of books to transport him to another world, and shares his excitement about becoming a published author.

A poem to the next president of the U.S. demanding change and advocating for transgender rights.

In this rousing poem, a student asserts her strength and worth as a woman.

A student considers realistic happy endings and the representation of LGBTQIA+ youth through the analysis of two webcomics.

A student explores the representation of LGBTQIA+ minorities and youth in US pop culture.

This student’s powerful piece reveals the essence of racial injustice.

A memoir that questions the idea of home and how it changes with time.

One teen writes a letter to his 14-year-old self, citing his past fears but looking towards his present, a brighter future.

In this poem, a student’s experiences in two countries meld together as she seeks out her true home.

Making bottle flipping look like child's play, this piece outlines rules for the new, competitive Fantasy Sport "Pencils".

A freshman describes their first day of school on their own.

This creative short story explores a snapshot of what a future New Orleans might look like amid climate change.

A family interview reveals a mother's painful past and shines a light on her persistence.

A student reflects on her origins to deconstruct social borders and seize her boundless future.

In this poem, a student reflects on identity.

A bilingual poem that expresses the love of one's culture and people

In this letter from the Essential Words lesson, 9th grader Sabrin discusses how she feels both happy and sad, and thanks nurses nationwide for bringing her peace through their work.

From the forthcoming anthology, Poets in Revolt!, this poem expresses the realization that a cage is not the only obstacle to a bird's freedom.

A neighborhood ode filled with sights and sounds of the poet's street.

In this letter from the Essential Words lesson, 10th grader Tala asks essential workers what motivates them to keep going during these difficult times, offering her own views on hope for the future.

In an exchange of letters, three students across one city share stories about where they came from and the places that matter most.

A personal essay that explores the different shades of the Black Lives Matter movement.

A soccer-filled, feud-fueled memoir.

A student reimagines food justice: Fruit Woman must convince Junk Food Man and Cheesecake Boy to eat their fruits and vegetables.

Aliens give this student superpowers to help him fulfill his greatest dream.

A student describes the eeriness of liminal spaces.

A poem about the complexity of love exchanged during the holidays.

Through this short story, Kalyn explores ideas of home and change in an altered world.

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?

In this memoir, the narrator recounts the struggle of being the bigger person in a very small space.

Using dialogue and detailed description, this poet investigates whose voices are heard and whose voices are left behind when injustice occurs.

Over a series of letters, two compassionate and resilient students develop a deep friendship sealed in writing.

Living in the digital world can create unwanted attachments, as one student laments.

This piece reminds us that a smile is not always what it seems.