Grades 5–6
Memoir, NarrativeWritingLilana is eleven years old. Her goal is to be an astronomer. She loves to do her nails, and she has two best friends, Jenny and Tania. They are really good friends.
Today I found out that my parents are getting divorced. It’s 2016 and it’s a new year. I was ready to start fresh, but, uh oh, my parents are getting divorced. Isn’t that just a miracle? Okay. Here’s how it goes.
My dad has a girlfriend and has been lying to us. Before all of this happened, first my parents were separated. My dad promised he would tell me when he had a girlfriend, but he didn’t. Anyway, today is the day the judge officially declared the divorce. Outside is gloomy. It is raining cats and dogs. I feel sick to my stomach. It’s a school day, and I am gloomy all day. My friends support me, and even my teachers ask if I am okay. The worst day ever.
I feel like somebody stabbed my heart, or like somebody said something mean to me, and everyone started to laugh. I feel like my whole world is falling apart. I think to myself, Try not to rely on somebody so hard because they can make just one mistake and this trust of yours is gone. They become hateful people.
I ask my teacher if I can go to the bathroom, and she says it is fine. I wash my face, and when I am washing my face, I look at my clothes. I am wearing blue skinny jeans, an army green shirt, white and black Converse sneakers, and a blue sweater. I smile and say, “It’s going to be fine. Everything is fine.”
I go back to class, and I work. I write all about how I am feeling, and I write six pages. I feel good after a little bit. It is almost the end of the day, and I can feel the drops falling from the sky. When I see my mom, I start crying.
My mom says, “Everything is going to be fine. We will get through it together as a family. I love you. Don’t ever think that this is because of you or that nobody loves you. You are our baby girl. You are our life. Our job is to protect you. You are our main priority. I love you, baby. I love you so much. We will get through this. After a storm, there is always sunshine at the end.”
From 826DC, what if how you see yourself is not how the world sees you? Inspired by socially charged photojournalism and mentor texts that include Junot Diaz and Claudia Rankine, students spanning ages ten to sixteen tackle questions about who they are and the world they live in. Having to Tell Your Mother Is the Hardest Part is a collection of personal narratives that encompasses the fears, dreams, and hopes of young writers, ranging from concerns about immigration to soccer tournament victories to a community that unites after an earthquake to the story behind a name, as well as critical responses to the 2016 United States presidential election. Filled with joy and sadness, young writers reflect on the encounters between themselves and the world around them, musing over misunderstandings and broken connections, and parsing out the meaning of identity in a multicultural and multilingual world.
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 Kevin J. Ortiz, 826DC
A personal narrative about a trip to Ocean City, a lonely puppy, and sharing our fears with others.
by Athena, 826NYC
In this poem, a student explores both the seen and unseen powers of a superhero.
by Charlotte, 826CHI
A collection of haikus spanning sushi to surviving the sixth grade.
by Claire Leiva, Grade 6, 826michigan
A poem about the writer's favorite animal--corgis!
by Penelope, 826 Valencia
In this superhero story, Super Duper Scarlet must save San Fran Superland from Doctor Nefario!
by Charm R., Grade 5, 826 New Orleans
This poem tells the story of a courageous little bird.
by Janelle Suazo, age 12, 826 Valencia
A school dare gone horribly wrong!
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 John, 826NYC
A creative commentary on food justice in which Digestive Man defends local farms from Corn Boy and the Factory Farmers!
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 Charlie, 826michigan
A very scientific retelling of why dinosaurs went extinct.
by Daphne, 826 Valencia
A girl named Chloe embarks on a heroic mission after discovering a new super-identity: Fluffy Justice!
by Jekaya, 826 Boston
A student reflects on what it takes to stand up to bullies and speak up for others.
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 Destiny, 826NYC
In this poem, a student contrasts conflicting perspectives on the construction of the Dakota Access Pipeline.
by Lina, 826 Valencia
A mischievous recipe calling for 3 tablespoons of candy, 10 gallons of not laughing, and 100 gallons of mother.
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 Mohamed F., 826 MSP
This poem uses descriptive language to leave the reader clues about the animal it is depicting.
by Kayamaghi, 826NYC
A lab experiment goes wrong and a humble scientist must save Superhero Land from a super speedy villain!
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 Girod, 826 New Orleans
This celebratory poem uses similes to list all of the things the writer loves about themself.
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 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 Brigid, 826CHI
A poem about facing fear—and learning how to shine.
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 Stefany Moreira, Vivi Small, Ana Rosas, Eugenia Rosas, and Jason Carrillo, 826NYC
This poem describes a warmer, tastier world run by young people.
by Aiden Spence, Grade 3, 826NYC
This poem describes all of the reasons why green is the best color.
by Zari P., Grade 4, 826DC
A playful "I am" poem that explores what's possible.
by Kenneth Vasquez, Age 10, 826 Valencia
A student reflects on their love of soccer.
by Caira N., Grade 5, 826NYC
A student lists all the reasons why her school is the best!
by Isabella, 826CHI
A student describes a scrumptious five-course meal—everything except the vegetables, that is!
by Reyes, 826NYC
A creative field guide to the eastern gray squirrel.
by Uma Cantone, 826NYC
Ever wonder what would happen if the sky fell? This student uses metaphor to explore new beginnings.
by Giovanna, 826NYC
An informative how-to on using a pen that can manipulate time and space.
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 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 Gael, 826CHI
A short but powerful poem about the circular nature of history.
Nur Schlenker, Age 10, 826 Valencia
A student paints two images, one of Halloween night, and the second of home.
by Wayne Gillyard, 826 Valencia
This poem shares the writer's love of all things yellow.
by Sumaya, 826 MSP
This poem uses analogies to describe different objects the writer would like to be.
by Smila H., Age 10, 826LA
A powerful acrostic poem that shares an encouraging message.
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 Elaine, 826 Boston
A diary entry reflecting on a secret mission to Mars!
by Victor, 826 Valencia
An ode to Beans, Rice, and Chicken.
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 Kaiya S., Grade 6, 826DC
The harrowing tale of a super spy student vs. the villainous Mr.X.
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 Guinevre, 826CHI
A persuasive letter with a few ideas on how to improve cafeteria lunches at school.
by Marco, 826LA
A screenplay about a plane crash and an epic journey to Mexico, with a twist!
by Emmanuel, 826DC
A personal narrative about a tender first sighting between brothers on a family trip to El Salvador.
by Alondra, 826CHI
An epic story of a princess who seeks acceptance among the stars.
by Abdinasir, 826 MSP
This poem shares what someone might experience on Halloween.
by Javier, 826DC
A student wishes for unexpected pops of color.
by Maria, 826 Valencia
This student gives thanks to ordinary objects in an ode.
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 Faisa Y., Grade 6, 826MSP
A student describes their comfort fairy imaginary friend.
by Angelina Do, Grade 6, 826 Valencia
A poem about living in the space between two cultures.
by Eric, 826CHI
This student recounts a fictional chat with George Washington about the American Revolution over a meal.
by Sophia, 826CHI
In this poem, a student makes some noise about resilience and beating the odds.
by Walter Linares, Age 11, 826 Valencia
The secrets of a spy in a red venom suit unfold...
by Ehmely, 826CHI
A crucial missive for anyone playing a high-stakes game of "Hide and Seek".
by Satis, 826 Valencia
A student argues for the importance of transgender rights in response to current events.
by Andres Santisteban-Perez, age 12, 826 Valencia
When playing video games night turned into a nightmare.
by Marvin, Grade 5, 826CHI
A troubled ghost haunts a boy’s dreams.
by Jesús, 826 Valencia
In this superhero story, Spyman is on an important mission—saving donuts from becoming bagels!
by Meredith, 826michigan
A poem about globe-sized dreams.
by Jack, Grade 5, 826 New Orleans
In this transcript, a student shares three clear actions to stand up to bullies.
by Erriyanna, 826michigan
An epic poem about a younger sister. English and Spanish versions included.
by Ivan Newton Ponce, 826 Valencia
This poem uses sensory details to describe the writer's favorite places.
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 Marisol, 826michigan
A young girl's poem about all the life she sees in her yard. English and Spanish versions included.
by Charlotte, 826CHI
A poem about spring!
by Pearl L., Age 10, 826DC
A story about Rory the dragon, the defender of all genders.
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 Gael, 826CHI
A poem about becoming a dancer.
Jaylin Guevarro, Grade 6, 826NYC
A poet admires their loved one through this warming ode.
by Kathryn, 826NYC
A very scientific origin poem about french fries, starting with an argument between the sun and the moon.
by Simone, 826michigan
A poem about appreciating trees and why we should study them.
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 Jin, 826LA
This student says thank you to her Mom, her hero, for a life full love and beef noodles!
by Joshua, 826CHI
Alien monsters and a young boy forge a friendship over a dramatic series of events.
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 Jalen, 826NYC
A series of superhero haiku inspired by engineering secret lairs.
by Robert, 826CHI
A collection of haikus spanning books and cosmology.
by Claire, 826CHI
A poem about “unfinding” what was known and learning to explore.
by Evelyn Escamilla, 826 Valencia
This poem uses metaphors and similes to describe happiness.
Jerieliz Garcia & Jaiden Vinti, 826NYC
Two poets braid together their reflections on where they come from.
by Kelis, 826NYC
On the planet Mars, Zoe must defeat the supervillain Zygorn to avenge her family! Wait—was it all a dream?
by Winta, 826DC
A concise but essential list of survival tips in the event of a sweet disaster.
by Khloe Fewster, 826 Valencia
This poem uses repetition to give advice for when you're feeling unsure of yourself.
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 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 Hope L.C., Age 10, 826DC
A silly story about dragon fruits -- no wait, fruit dragons!
Roberto Misael Aguilera, Age 9, 826 Valencia
Discover the fearful T-Rex Koala--koala by day, monster by night!
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 Chelsea, 826NYC
An academically-inclined student passes on their favorite tips for having fun before fifth grade starts.
by K.M., 826DC
In this piece, a student describes the challenges of being a superhero and reflects on their power to shine.
by Jeffrey, 826DC
In this "I Wish" poem, written in both Spanish and English, a student dreams of a more colorful world.
by Ximena Torres, Age 9, 826 Valencia
A poem about the lessons your family can teach you.
by Dy’Stonie V., Grade 5, 826 New Orleans
A poem that highlights the bond between grandparent, grandchild, and a sweet perfume.
by Natalie, 826 Valencia
A recipe for how to create a legendary rapper.
by Jose Martin Gomez, 826 Valencia
This poem celebrates a special person in the writer's life.
by Keila S.O., 826michigan
An “I Am From” poem about growing up in Detroit.
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 Elena Chambers, 826michigan
Thinking of Cherry Coke lip gloss, community, and dancing, this narrator celebrates life from their front stoop.
by Ayana A., Grade 6, 826NYC
by Victor, 826 Valencia
This student gives thanks to ordinary objects in an ode.
by Olivia, 826NYC
An elegy for corn.
by Madison, 826 New Orleans
This poem leaves the reader descriptive clues to help them guess the mystery food.
by Kevin, 826LA
A letter from the author to the author on appreciating both the unconventional and conventional parts of oneself.
by Dahlia-Rose, 826NYC
A field guide to Queen Anne’s Lace and a day in the life from a flower’s perspective.
by Keila, 826michigan
An "I A From" poem. English and Spanish versions included.
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 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 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 Renee, 826NYC
A poem that explores all that a tree can stand for.
by Talia, 826NYC
A creative field guide to Sea Lettuce.
by Valary K., Grade 6, 826 MSP
A story about a mysterious tunnel that leaves you on the edge of your seat!
by Chelsea, 826NYC
A creative field guide to Daddy Longlegs.
Perla Ortega, Age 9, 826 Valencia
A poet sweetly appreciates a teacher for her kindness.
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.
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 Robert, 826CHI
A poem that explores the struggles of mine workers.
by Najah, Grade 6, 826 MSP
A student appreciates and reflects on her mother's kindness over the years.
by Marie, 826CHI
A monkey named Chesley saves the animals of the forest from an evil Master!
by Lyric White, age 10, 826 Valencia
A magical mountain quest to save a mermaid.
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 Kaitlyn, 826NYC
A creation myth reimagined in a poem.
by Athena, 826NYC
An "I Am From" superhero persona poem.
by Jaceon B., Grade 4, 826 New Orleans
A student describes their butter covered imaginary friend.
by Elsy, 826LA
Song lyrics about memories of cake and pizza, friendship, and giving 1,000 opinions.
by Oscar, 826CHI
The story of a lifetime—literally.
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 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 Maia Sears, 826michigan
This student describes exciting things the future will bring, like elevators that can reach space!
by Lux, 826NYC
A student reflects on their experiences with bullying and how they’ll take a stand in the future.
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 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 Yarely, 826michigan
A poem about grandma. English and Spanish versions included.
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 Salma, Grade 5, 826 Boston
A student reminds herself of the many ways she shines
by Milo, 826NYC
A creative origin story in which a programmer simultaneously creates life and biology in a program.
by Felix E., 826 Valencia
A student's fear is conquered after a startling discovery.
by Marisa, 826michigan
A series of tweets about an adventurous cat named Marcus. #SuperCat #Meow
by Natalia, 826CHI
A story told by her grandfather leads Betty on a journey where fiction and reality collide.
by Joseline, 826DC
A personal narrative about a teensie, tiny bit of jealousy for a new baby sister turning into love.
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 Juna, 826michigan
A poem about taking the world in—and letting go.
by Camilla S.R., Grade 5, 826 Valencia
A student describes her imaginary friend from Funky Town.
by Luis, 826LA
This student writes a letter to a hero with a sweet double kick: Jackie Chan!
by Kayla, 826LA
This author reflects on an act of kindness to someone in need.
by Salimatou, 826NYC
Together, a princess with superpowers and an orphan-turned-sidekick must save the king and queen of kingdom Atarica!
by Marisa, 826NYC
A student reports on Islamophobia, using research and interviews to explore this mindset and its damaging repercussions.
by Uma, 826NYC
A witty set of foolproof pickup lines.
by Norah, Grade 5, 826DC
A student describes her mystical worm imaginary friend.
by Jacore, 826 Valencia
An intriguing and educational essay discussing environmental consciousness and the devastating effects of global warming.
by Angel Flores Vazquez, 826 Valencia
This poem illustrates the effectiveness of descriptive language.
by Armaan, 826CHI
This author recounts the beginning of a family tradition: the best homemade sandwich ever!
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