Grades 7–8
NarrativeWritingOn this one particular Tuesday, Times Square was so busy, I could barely see two feet ahead of me. I was rushing to get to work because I had a big interview. I was in my own bubble when
I tripped over something. It was a wallet. I saw a glimpse of someone walking away. I could see their long brown hair with a khaki green sweater. I yelled, “Excuse me, ma’am, you dropped
your wallet!”
But it was too late. She had disappeared into the crowd. The wallet was open when I picked it up, so I decided to look inside to see if I could find an address to return it to her. I put the wallet in my backpack and I was going to look after my big interview.
The day was over, and I nailed that interview. I thought to myself, I should get that wallet back to the person who dropped it. I sat down on my couch and started to open the wallet. I noticed that there was a lot of cash. I looked through their credit cards and found out that her name was Meredith Plugvinard. I found a little piece of paper tucked into the bottom of the wallet. It was a phone number. I heard the doorbell ring before I could call the number. It was Stacy, my best friend from college. We had planned to meet that night to talk about our interviews and how they went. She had her interview at It’s Sugar Time in Times Square. We talked about our day, and then I mentioned the wallet to her. I told her that I found a random number and that I wanted to call to see if I could find the person who lost the wallet. We both agreed we should call.
We called the number, and what sounded like a grumpy, middle-aged man answered in an annoyed voice.
“Mickey here,” he said.
“Hi Mickey, my name is Sasha and I found this wallet earlier today. When I was looking through it I found this number, so I called and wanted to see if you could help me find the person who owns this wallet.”
“Um uh ohhh, yes! Of course I can help, meet me at 22nd and Broadway tomorrow exactly when the sun sets,” he responded in a much lighter voice.
“Okay, perfect, see you there tomorrow night,” I said, excited to return the wallet and maybe even get some reward myself. Stacy looked at me like I was psycho or something.
“What?!” I said.
“Why would you agree to that? We are in New York City. And I know that address. It is a dark alley where there are always very sketchy people,” she said to me in a mom’s voice.
I decided to tell her the truth. “Well, I only agreed because I am hoping he would give me some reward, I don’t know.”
“No, how could you take the offer, Sasha? Of course they are not going to give you a reward,” Stacy said with a big sigh, “I think it would be better if I went with you, or you could just call the police and tell them to drop it off. This is a very bad idea.”
I ignored her and decided to go on my own.
The day had finally come, I was on my way out to meet this person. On my drive there, I had instant regret. I had a gut feeling something was going to go horribly wrong. I should have listened to Stacy. I got there and I saw two white vans parked on either end of the road. At this point, I was really scared. I had to remind myself what I am here for, the money. Hopefully.
I got out of my car and I saw a woman in all black staring me down. I approached her, fearing for my life. I talked to her for about five minutes and as I was handing her the wallet, she put a
bag over my head. I started to yell and scream for help. Then I was saved by Stacy, wait what?!! What was Stacy doing here? Before I could ask any questions, a whole other set of vans came towards us and a bunch of men came out. She wiped them out in seconds. The police arrived. Stacy had called them because she also had a gut feeling something was not going to go exactly right.
The police arrived right on time to see her wipe out all those men. The officers got out of their car and walked up to us. She was about to say something when they invited her to join the police academy. She was lost for words. She was extremely athletic, so she did fit the part. She said yes. After looking for a job for six months, she actually felt excited about something for once. I ended up not getting any rewards, or finding out why they tried to kidnap me. But I did get to live, which is a big enough reward in itself.
by Andy, 826CHI
In this memoir, a few friends bond over a rare Pokémon Go catch.
by Lola, 826 Valencia
A poem that portrays the arc of a love story told through the gift of a cigarette lighter.
by Sela, 826 MSP
This poem holds big dreams for the speaker's future.
by Janelle Suazo, age 12, 826 Valencia
A school dare gone horribly wrong!
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 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 Johnny Vasquez, 826 MSP
A family interview reveals a mother's painful past and shines a light on her persistence.
by Arianny, 826 Boston
A poem that celebrates being Latino
by Giovanna, 826NYC
An informative how-to on using a pen that can manipulate time and space.
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 Evelyn Escamilla, 826 Valencia
This poem uses metaphors and similes to describe happiness.
by Caroline, 826 Valencia
A student explores U.S. soccer player Megan Rapinoe’s decision to kneel in protest during the national anthem.
by Salome Maldonando, 826CHI
A poem about unrequited love.
by Emmanuel J., 826NYC
An avid basketball fan discusses the rise of the Golden State Warriors through its individual players.
by Jose Martin Gomez, 826 Valencia
This poem celebrates a special person in the writer's life.
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 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 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 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 Sahir M., Grade 7
This poem uses metaphors to describe who the speaker really is.
by Jason, 826michigan
Making bottle flipping look like child's play, this piece outlines rules for the new, competitive Fantasy Sport "Pencils".
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 Sam, 826CHI
In this poem, a student pits mathematics against the unknown.
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 Brigid, 826CHI
A poem about facing fear—and learning how to shine.
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 David, 826CHI
A student writes about the smell, taste, and pace of their neighborhood.
by Byanna & Kayla, 826CHI
Two students across one city bond by writing letters to each other about the people they love most.
Jerieliz Garcia & Jaiden Vinti, 826NYC
Two poets braid together their reflections on where they come from.
by Anjum, 826CHI
A shout-out poem to some things missed (Hyderabad) and celebrated (Mom).
by Asa, 826CHI
This narrator embarks on a mysterious vacation in the sky!
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 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 Pia, 826NYC
A student reimagines food justice: Fruit Woman must convince Junk Food Man and Cheesecake Boy to eat their fruits and vegetables.
by Fahima Dahir, 826 MSP
A poem about the strength and limitations of language and shared culture.
by Xaria, 826 Valencia
An argument against the wage gap that prevails in the U.S. and across the globe.
by CA, Grade 7, 826CHI
A writer's honest view of who they are and their potential.
by Sara Sofia Becerra L., Age 14, 826 Valencia
This poem shares the writer's love for music with the world.
by Jazmine & Vanessa, 826CHI
Over a series of letters, two compassionate and resilient students develop a deep friendship sealed in writing.
by Jeff, 826CHI
In this piece, a student describes Christmas as a holiday best spent together.
by Natalie, 826CHI
Weaving together Spanish and English, a student shares the discovery of a family secret.
by Renée, 826NYC
A persuasive letter detailing to the recipient the pointlessness of writing a persuasive letter. A helpful example for reluctant writers.
by Djeneba Soumaoro, 826michigan
A student’s manifesto!
by Charlotte, 826CHI
A poem about spring!
by Mya, 826CHI
A piece packed with vivid description about taking risks at an ice rink.
Amara, 826 New Orleans
An ode celebrating an important figure in this student’s life.
by Diego, 826CHI
On the funniest day of this student’s life…
by Alondra, 826CHI
An epic story of a princess who seeks acceptance among the stars.
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 Victor, 826CHI
An epic memoir about an epic volleyball match! Who will win: the teachers or the students?
by Iliana, 826CHI
A student searches for answers in their community.
by Dayana Alvarado, 826CHI
A student shares finding home in two places: Mexico and Chicago.
by Eva, 826 Valencia
A student celebrates the journey of discovering whom to love.
by Satis, 826 Valencia
A student argues for the importance of transgender rights in response to current events.
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 Inge S., Age 13, 826CHI
Part riddle, part observations, this poem leaves the reader with big things to think about.
by Lesly, 826 Valencia
A sports poem about the losing blues.
by Claire Leiva, Grade 6, 826michigan
A poem about the writer's favorite animal--corgis!
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 Isabel, 826 Boston
From the forthcoming anthology, Poets in Revolt!, this poem features a student battling with the voices constricting her freedom.
by Kaitlyn, 826NYC
A middle school student firmly protests the flavor and quality of her school’s lunches.
by Andres Santisteban-Perez, age 12, 826 Valencia
When playing video games night turned into a nightmare.
by Cora B., Grade 8
This narrative uses nature imagery, to help the reader walk through a day in the speaker's shoes
by Isabella Serrato, Grade 7, 826 Dallas Project
This poem uses sound devices to enhance the overall tone.
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 Christian Z., Age 14, 826 Valencia
A poet recounts his day out at the Yerba Buena Gardens.
by Sebastian Cendejas, 826CHI
A student reflects on how much Chicago means to them.
by Alonso, 826 Boston
An insightful set of instructions for surviving a day as a 7th grader in the Boston Teachers Union School.
by Khloe Fewster, 826 Valencia
This poem uses repetition to give advice for when you're feeling unsure of yourself.
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 David & Daniel, 826CHI
In this heartfelt exchange of letters, two students bond over food, videos games, and some scary adventures.
by Duanté, 826 Valencia
A personal narrative about race and identity.
by Elsy, 826LA
Song lyrics about memories of cake and pizza, friendship, and giving 1,000 opinions.
by Laila, 826CHI
A memoir about losing a parent—and a community’s support.
by Calvin, 826michigan
A student professes love—to a jalapeño!
by Jiaxi, 826CHI
A student’s worldview is forever altered after a lesson on the Segregation Era and Jim Crow.
by Rafael, 826CHI
A student remembers an afternoon adventure around town and explores what Chicago and community mean to him.
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 Harrison, 826michigan
A recursive poem that helps students explore the potential connections between math fractals and verse.
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 Elizabeth W., 826 Valencia
A persuasive piece for women and girls to unite and cultivate a culture of body image positivity.
by Marco, 826LA
A screenplay about a plane crash and an epic journey to Mexico, with a twist!
by Luis, 826LA
This student writes a letter to a hero with a sweet double kick: Jackie Chan!
by Tylor, 826NYC
A lean but essential checklist for readers to determine if they are awake.
by Cayden, 826DC
This poem lists all of the pieces that make up the writer's whole.
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 Jack, 826 Valencia
An argument against the overconsumption of sugar outlines the ways its effects are anything but sweet.
by John, 826NYC
A creative commentary on food justice in which Digestive Man defends local farms from Corn Boy and the Factory Farmers!
by Renee, 826NYC
A poem about a place where ideas can grow.
by Mateo, 826CHI
An informative entry on the meaning and usage of a student-inspired word: doomungous.
by Salvador M., Grade 7, 826DC
A peaceful reflection on what type of place a student would be.
by Shayne Williams
Discover what one student experiences when they tuck their phone away for a whole day.
by Uma Cantone, 826NYC
Ever wonder what would happen if the sky fell? This student uses metaphor to explore new beginnings.
by Angel, 826CHI
A student writes about the transformative experience of changing schools.
by Jabari, Grade 8, 826 Valencia
A poem about wanting more from life.
by Destiny, 826NYC
In this poem, a student contrasts conflicting perspectives on the construction of the Dakota Access Pipeline.
by Wayne Gillyard, 826 Valencia
This poem shares the writer's love of all things yellow.
by Jamie, 826 Valencia
A metaphorical poem about frustrations, from homework to homelessness.
by Chelsea, 826NYC
An acrostic poem about the Black Lives Matter movement.
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 Sian Laing
When Instagram becomes an unsightly battlefield.
by Sharon, 826CHI
A memoir about finding true friendship.
by Curtis, 826michigan
A rhyming (inverse) ode to a very irritating noise.
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 Vivian, 826CHI
A narrative about loving to run—and learning to never quit!
by Jin, 826LA
This student says thank you to her Mom, her hero, for a life full love and beef noodles!
by Anonymous, Grade 8, 826 Boston
In this poem, a student reflects on identity.
by Kevin, 826NYC
An informational briefing on a horrible incident in the year 5176 that changed the hoverboarding industry forever.
by Kiara, 826CHI
In this personal narrative, a student explores growing up young and black in Chicago.
by Chelsea, 826NYC
A creative field guide to Daddy Longlegs.
by Arielle B., Grade 8
This poem invites readers to remember that people are often going through more than choose to show.
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 Renee, 826NYC
A poem that explores all that a tree can stand for.
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 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 V.G., 826LA
A poem that muses on the purpose of borders in question and answer format.
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