Grade 5
Fantasy/SciFi, NarrativeWritingNatalie is 11 years old and lives in Chicago. Natalie likes to dance to hip-hop, bachata, merengue, cha-cha, cumbia, and many more, and she is really good at choreographing dances. She wishes to become a famous dancer and for her family to be happy about her accomplishments. If she could have any superpower, it would be to have witch powers. When Natalie grows up, she wants to have a happy life with a career of being a dancer and an actress.
Once there was a little girl named Janet who had long, black hair and eyes that shimmered like the beautiful ocean. She was 12 years old and had a love for dance. She was always bullied for not being the best dancer. They would tease her and say critical words like “ugly,” “phony,” and “fraud.” She always dreamed of going on Broadway and dancing her heart out. Unfortunately, she got ill and passed away and was never able to accomplish her dream of dancing.
In the year of 1960 (25 years after Janet passed), she rose from her grave and saw many new things about her town, Vuda. She saw some girls who had an amazing resemblance to the girls who bullied her. She was a red, raging bull ready to charge. She used her powers (which were the elements of the Earth, like fire, water, and anything to do with nature) to make the little girls run away terrified, and pee in their pants.
After another century passed and everything that she saw was different, like phones and high tech gear. She wanted to look around and see the differences in her town of Vuda. On her way downtown, out of the corner of her eye, she saw a dance studio called Cotton Candy Dance Studio. It looked like a big, rainbow-colored, sparkly ballroom and smelled like millions of roses. The girls in the studio were practicing a dance routine. She got ticked off as she saw a little kid throwing a tantrum over something they did not get, so she decided to cause some problems.
As Janet went into the dance studio, she saw a couple of little girls, but the people who really had her interest were the best girls: Daisy, Jordan, Emma, Star, and Maya. These girls danced as gracefully as beautiful swans swimming in a pond.
Janet possessed Maya and started to make a lot of trouble. Janet started to make Maya push the other girls and say hateful words like “ugly,” “phony,” and “fraud.” Those words kind of sounded familiar.
One thing Janet did not notice was that there were cameras watching her every step and move. The girls wanted to find out why their friend was doing this, so they went into their secret hideout in the dance studio and started to think.
“When did Maya start to act like this?” asked Jordan.
“When we were practicing our new dance routine,” explained Star.
“Wait, I felt a weird, spooky wind pass by me when we were practicing our routine!” shrieked Daisy.
“Like a ghost? Yeah, right,” laughed Emma.
“Could it be?” gasped Star.
“Maybe,” muttered Jordan. Emma stopped laughing.
“I got it!” called out Daisy. She led them to the camera room.
They were very scared at what they saw, but they knew what they had to do. They went online to a website called www.monsters.com. They found out that you could strap the monster to a table, then use a vacuum to take out the spirit. Next, you needed to take a bottle and put the spirit inside the bottle, then throw or bury the bottle far, far away…
“That is all we need to do. Wow, pretty easy,” said Jordan.
“I know, right?” agreed Emma.
“Let’s go,” said Star.
The girls were in such a rush to find a way to cure their friend that they forgot to finish reading the website. It stated that you needed to secure the bottle with a special liquid that could only be found in the deep end of the forest of the Haunted Hallows, inside a cave that was guarded by ugly monsters with sharp teeth and huge horns.
Meanwhile, the girls were thinking of a plan to strap Maya to the table so they could take out Janet’s spirit. Jordan came up with the idea to lock her up in the room and put a projection over the table of a girl dancing to lure Maya.
Once that happened, the girls would pop into the room like popcorn; some would hold Maya and the others would strap her down.
Everything went as planned. Maya was tied to the table, the girls had the vacuum, and now all that was left to do was to take out the spirit. As soon as Star turned on the vacuum, lightning filled the room, wind blew all around, and all you could hear was the horrible shriek of Janet’s yell for help and her curse: “I will find you!”
“Is it over?” asked Emma, when the lightning and wind went away.
“Only one way to find out,” said Daisy.
Jordan, who was holding the bottle, held it up so everyone could see. They saw a dark, black, foggy wind, which they knew was Janet’s spirit. The girls made sure Maya was okay (she was) and told her what happened. The look on her face was as if she had just seen an evil monster—times 10 (which she had).
The girls went to the ocean to throw the bottle away for good and make sure Janet was never seen or heard from again. Once they threw the bottle away, they cheered and went to go finish that dance routine.
* * *
A generation had passed…some little girls were playing on the beach in the sand. They found the same exact bottle—opened!
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This collection of zany, adventurous monster tales—penned by fourth and fifth grade students from Brentano Math & Science Academy in Chicago—invites you to walk within dark tunnels, through explosive science labs, and into strange forests to explore beastly worlds unknown. Each piece provokes, tantalizes, and surprises you... perhaps even makes you gasp—or shout—OMG! An 826CHI Young Authors' Book Project.
by Kevin, 826LA
A letter from the author to the author on appreciating both the unconventional and conventional parts of oneself.
Nur Schlenker, Age 10, 826 Valencia
A student paints two images, one of Halloween night, and the second of home.
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 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 Robert, 826CHI
A poem that explores the struggles of mine workers.
by Dahlia-Rose, 826NYC
A field guide to Queen Anne’s Lace and a day in the life from a flower’s perspective.
by Robert, 826CHI
A collection of haikus spanning books and cosmology.
by Jekaya, 826 Boston
A student reflects on what it takes to stand up to bullies and speak up for others.
by Elaine, 826 Boston
A diary entry reflecting on a secret mission to Mars!
by Jalen, 826NYC
A series of superhero haiku inspired by engineering secret lairs.
by Kenneth Vasquez, Age 10, 826 Valencia
A student reflects on their love of soccer.
by Juna, 826michigan
A poem about taking the world in—and letting go.
by Aiden Spence, Grade 3, 826NYC
This poem describes all of the reasons why green is the best color.
by Marisa, 826NYC
A student reports on Islamophobia, using research and interviews to explore this mindset and its damaging repercussions.
by Natalie, 826 Valencia
A recipe for how to create a legendary rapper.
by Norah, Grade 5, 826DC
A student describes her mystical worm imaginary friend.
Perla Ortega, Age 9, 826 Valencia
A poet sweetly appreciates a teacher for her kindness.
by Natalia, 826CHI
A story told by her grandfather leads Betty on a journey where fiction and reality collide.
by Keila, 826michigan
An "I A From" poem. English and Spanish versions included.
by Salma, Grade 5, 826 Boston
A student reminds herself of the many ways she shines
by Athena, 826NYC
An "I Am From" superhero persona poem.
by Uma, 826NYC
A witty set of foolproof pickup lines.
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 Marisa, 826michigan
A series of tweets about an adventurous cat named Marcus. #SuperCat #Meow
by Chelsea, 826NYC
An academically-inclined student passes on their favorite tips for having fun before fifth grade starts.
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 Joshua, 826CHI
Alien monsters and a young boy forge a friendship over a dramatic series of events.
by Jesús, 826 Valencia
In this superhero story, Spyman is on an important mission—saving donuts from becoming bagels!
by Walter Linares, Age 11, 826 Valencia
The secrets of a spy in a red venom suit unfold...
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 Javier, 826DC
A student wishes for unexpected pops of color.
by Jeffrey, 826DC
In this "I Wish" poem, written in both Spanish and English, a student dreams of a more colorful world.
by Jaceon B., Grade 4, 826 New Orleans
A student describes their butter covered imaginary friend.
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.
Roberto Misael Aguilera, Age 9, 826 Valencia
Discover the fearful T-Rex Koala--koala by day, monster by night!
by Keila S.O., 826michigan
An “I Am From” poem about growing up in Detroit.
by K.M., 826DC
In this piece, a student describes the challenges of being a superhero and reflects on their power to shine.
by Lina, 826 Valencia
A mischievous recipe calling for 3 tablespoons of candy, 10 gallons of not laughing, and 100 gallons of mother.
by Pearl L., Age 10, 826DC
A story about Rory the dragon, the defender of all genders.
by Ehmely, 826CHI
A crucial missive for anyone playing a high-stakes game of "Hide and Seek".
by Abdinasir, 826 MSP
This poem shares what someone might experience on Halloween.
by Dy’Stonie V., Grade 5, 826 New Orleans
A poem that highlights the bond between grandparent, grandchild, and a sweet perfume.
by Ximena Torres, Age 9, 826 Valencia
A poem about the lessons your family can teach you.
by Olivia, 826NYC
An elegy for corn.
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 Camilla S.R., Grade 5, 826 Valencia
A student describes her imaginary friend from Funky Town.
by Victor, 826 Valencia
This student gives thanks to ordinary objects in an ode.
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 Zari P., Grade 4, 826DC
A playful "I am" poem that explores what's possible.
by Kayla, 826LA
This author reflects on an act of kindness to someone in need.
by Talia, 826NYC
A creative field guide to Sea Lettuce.
by Girod, 826 New Orleans
This celebratory poem uses similes to list all of the things the writer loves about themself.
by Kevin J. Ortiz, 826DC
A personal narrative about a trip to Ocean City, a lonely puppy, and sharing our fears with others.
by Winta, 826DC
A concise but essential list of survival tips in the event of a sweet disaster.
by Oscar, 826CHI
The story of a lifetime—literally.
by Luana Anticona Nolasco, age 10, 826 Valencia
An eerie encounter with a shapeshifter after a grocery run.
by Hanako M., Age 10, 826michigan
A "sense"-sational poem about the flowers in their yard.
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 Kelis, 826NYC
On the planet Mars, Zoe must defeat the supervillain Zygorn to avenge her family! Wait—was it all a dream?
by Charlie, 826michigan
A very scientific retelling of why dinosaurs went extinct.
by Naomi, 826michigan
A (mostly) love letter to a kiwi with delicious imagery.
by Maia Sears, 826michigan
This student describes exciting things the future will bring, like elevators that can reach space!
by Lyric White, age 10, 826 Valencia
A magical mountain quest to save a mermaid.
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 Victor, 826 Valencia
An ode to Beans, Rice, and Chicken.
by Hope L.C., Age 10, 826DC
A silly story about dragon fruits -- no wait, fruit dragons!
by Marie, 826CHI
A monkey named Chesley saves the animals of the forest from an evil Master!
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 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 Athena, 826NYC
In this poem, a student explores both the seen and unseen powers of a superhero.
by Felix E., 826 Valencia
A student's fear is conquered after a startling discovery.
by Marvin, Grade 5, 826CHI
A troubled ghost haunts a boy’s dreams.
by Penelope, 826 Valencia
In this superhero story, Super Duper Scarlet must save San Fran Superland from Doctor Nefario!
Vivien Norton, Age 12, 826michigan
A poet explores their love for writing with their friend.
by Caira N., Grade 5, 826NYC
A student lists all the reasons why her school is the best!
by Milo, 826NYC
A creative origin story in which a programmer simultaneously creates life and biology in a program.
by Erriyanna, 826michigan
An epic poem about a younger sister. English and Spanish versions included.
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 Emmanuel, 826DC
A personal narrative about a tender first sighting between brothers on a family trip to El Salvador.
by Maria, 826 Valencia
This student gives thanks to ordinary objects in an ode.
by Jack, Grade 5, 826 New Orleans
In this transcript, a student shares three clear actions to stand up to bullies.
by Ivan Newton Ponce, 826 Valencia
This poem uses sensory details to describe the writer's favorite places.
by Yarely, 826michigan
A poem about grandma. 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 Kaitlyn, 826NYC
A creation myth reimagined in a poem.
by Angel Flores Vazquez, 826 Valencia
This poem illustrates the effectiveness of descriptive language.
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 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 Claire, 826CHI
A poem about “unfinding” what was known and learning to explore.
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 Ramatoulie, 826DC
A student shares memories of transitioning from Gambia to a new home in the United States, complete with a snowy encounter.
Dominick Contreras Rodriguez, age 9, 826 Valencia
A student traces his identity through food and family.
by Marco, 826LA
A screenplay about a plane crash and an epic journey to Mexico, with a twist!
by Salimatou, 826NYC
Together, a princess with superpowers and an orphan-turned-sidekick must save the king and queen of kingdom Atarica!
by Joseline, 826DC
A personal narrative about a teensie, tiny bit of jealousy for a new baby sister turning into love.
by Kathryn, 826NYC
A very scientific origin poem about french fries, starting with an argument between the sun and the moon.
by Smila H., Age 10, 826LA
A powerful acrostic poem that shares an encouraging message.
Raquel Campos, Age 10, 826 Valencia
Three friends, inspired by a stream of butterflies, bake a beautiful cake.
by Marisol, 826michigan
A young girl's poem about all the life she sees in her yard. English and Spanish versions included.
by Daphne, 826 Valencia
A girl named Chloe embarks on a heroic mission after discovering a new super-identity: Fluffy Justice!
by Mohamed F., 826 MSP
This poem uses descriptive language to leave the reader clues about the animal it is depicting.
by Violeta, 826CHI
A monster's routine trip for tuna sandwich ingredients results in a broken arm!
Elsie, 826 New Orleans
In this poem, a student celebrates individuality.
by Simone, 826michigan
A poem about appreciating trees and why we should study them.
by Elena Chambers, 826michigan
Thinking of Cherry Coke lip gloss, community, and dancing, this narrator celebrates life from their front stoop.
by Lux, 826NYC
A student reflects on their experiences with bullying and how they’ll take a stand in the future.
by Reyes, 826NYC
A creative field guide to the eastern gray squirrel.
by Madison, 826 New Orleans
This poem leaves the reader descriptive clues to help them guess the mystery food.
by Sumaya, 826 MSP
This poem uses analogies to describe different objects the writer would like to be.
Dylan Sanderson, Grade 5, 826NYC
A student dreams of the most joyful place in the world--somewhere with their family and money!
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 Charm R., Grade 5, 826 New Orleans
This poem tells the story of a courageous little bird.
by Kayamaghi, 826NYC
A lab experiment goes wrong and a humble scientist must save Superhero Land from a super speedy villain!
by Meredith, 826michigan
A poem about globe-sized dreams.
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