Grade 5
Memoir, NarrativeWritingAna lives in Washington, DC, and she lives with her mom, brother, cousin, and aunt. She likes doing realistic things, and she likes to cook for her brother and cousin. She also has a sister who is three years old. Her favorite sport is cheer – she likes that it’s all about her.
Once upon a time, I was at my school waiting for my mom to come pick me up. My mom came, and she took me and my brother, Zayn, to our house.
When we opened the door, I told Zayn, “Why don’t we do a race from the door up to the refrigerator?” Zayn won and, when he opened the fridge, Zayn and I were upset because there was no food in the refrigerator.
When my mom saw the fridge, she said, “Okay, there’s no food. Let’s go to Olive Garden. But first fix your room because your room is dirty.”
We cleaned our room and, when we were done, my mom said, “Okay, if you’re done, go change so we can go to Olive Garden.”
We changed. My mom said, “Come on. Let’s go, because Olive Garden is almost an hour from here. Come on, hurry up.”
We went outside, got in the car, and left. When we left, we were starving.
My mom said, “OMG,” because the car was throwing smoke, then it stopped. We were stuck for almost an hour. My mom got out of the car.
She said, “So now how are we going to get to Olive Garden? All of us are starving right now.” The reason that the car was throwing smoke was because a wire ripped.
She said, “Ooh, I have a wonderful idea! Come on, guys, look for something to fix the wire that ripped.”
Zayn and I went to find a thing to cover the rip. My mom asked us, “Did you find anything yet?”
Zayn said, “Yes, I did.”
My mom told him to give it to her so she could cover the wire and we could go to the mechanic. She put it on and it worked, so we went.
When we got there, my mom gave our car to the mechanic. Twenty minutes later, he gave our car back, and we gave him the money.
Mom started driving and my brother started to sing. I told him to stop singing, and he didn’t, so he started fighting with me.
My mom said, “Stop fighting.”
Zayn was like, “It was Ruthie that started it.”
But I was like, “Mom, he is lying. Of course it wasn’t me.”
She said, “Stop it, or you guys are going to get bad consequences. Now, can you be quiet. Please, be quiet, guys.” Then she said, “We are going to pick up your cousin, okay?”
A big storm came up, and it was raining hard. My mom said, “Did you bring an umbrella so we can get out and get your cousin?
When we got to my cousin’s house, we called him to come outside so we could go to Olive Garden. When he came out, I was like, “Thank god my cousin is here because now my brother can stop bothering me. He never stops bothering me.”
We got to Olive Garden and parked the car, then we went inside. We waited until they gave us a table; we waited a long time. Then they called us, so we went to the table. When a server asked us what we wanted to order, we told him.
He said, “The food is coming up in just twenty minutes.”
We waited, and I was playing on my phone for those twenty minutes until the food came. It was fun until my phone died, and I was so angry.
The food came, and I was happy because I was starving. We ate. When we were done, we paid for our food. We left our cousin at his house, then we went home.
Mom told us, “When we get home you have to brush your teeth and then go to bed, because it is already midnight. Tomorrow is a school day.”
When it was seven-thirty we woke up and got dressed, and then we went to school.
When I went inside, we did morning meeting, and Ms. T asked me what we did on Sunday. I told her what happened when we went to Olive Garden, and she was so surprised. I was nervous to say it because it was a long way to Olive Garden.
Ms. T said, “How did you feel?”
When we were going to specials I was running, and I broke the rules of the school. I told the teacher, “I’m sorry, Ms. T.”
I felt ashamed of myself, so I told Ms. T, “I will never do it again.”
It’s just that I still can’t forget the bad day I had yesterday. I’m having a lot of trouble listening to the rules, and I just realized that I have to take a deep breath in to calm myself down.
The End!
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A girl goes against her parents' wishes and signs up for cooking school. An FBI agent tries to win back her partner who has gone rogue. A plot to overthrow the president kicks off—but after a stop at a McDonald's in the jungle first. In these stories, fifth graders at Bruce Monroe @ Park View Elementary have created vivid pieces of realistic fiction that weave together elements of real life experience and imagination. The results are stories of Dostoyevskian uncanniness, heartwarming friendships, O'Henry-style plot twists, and tragedy that range from the melancholy and heavy-hearted to the laugh out loud hilarious. This dynamic collection also features illustrations by Santiago Casares, winner of the 2006 Children's Book Story FILIJ Award. Designed by Oliver Munday. An 826DC Young Authors' Book Project.
by Kevin, 826LA
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This student gives thanks to ordinary objects in an ode.
by Talia, 826NYC
A creative field guide to Sea Lettuce.
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 Marvin, Grade 5, 826CHI
A troubled ghost haunts a boy’s dreams.
by Emmanuel, 826DC
A personal narrative about a tender first sighting between brothers on a family trip to El Salvador.
by Violeta, 826CHI
A monster's routine trip for tuna sandwich ingredients results in a broken arm!
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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.
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by Girod, 826 New Orleans
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by Javier, 826DC
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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 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 Jekaya, 826 Boston
A student reflects on what it takes to stand up to bullies and speak up for others.
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 Zari P., Grade 4, 826DC
A playful "I am" poem that explores what's possible.
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 Joseline, 826DC
A personal narrative about a teensie, tiny bit of jealousy for a new baby sister turning into love.
Roberto Misael Aguilera, Age 9, 826 Valencia
Discover the fearful T-Rex Koala--koala by day, monster by night!
Dominick Contreras Rodriguez, age 9, 826 Valencia
A student traces his identity through food and family.
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.)
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A poem about the lessons your family can teach you.
by Natalie, 826 Valencia
A recipe for how to create a legendary rapper.
by Ivan Newton Ponce, 826 Valencia
This poem uses sensory details to describe the writer's favorite places.
by Naomi, 826michigan
A (mostly) love letter to a kiwi with delicious imagery.
by Marisol, 826michigan
A young girl's poem about all the life she sees in her yard. English and Spanish versions included.
by Athena, 826NYC
In this poem, a student explores both the seen and unseen powers of a superhero.
by Chelsea, 826NYC
An academically-inclined student passes on their favorite tips for having fun before fifth grade starts.
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.
Elsie, 826 New Orleans
In this poem, a student celebrates individuality.
by Ehmely, 826CHI
A crucial missive for anyone playing a high-stakes game of "Hide and Seek".
by Robert, 826CHI
A poem that explores the struggles of mine workers.
by Caira N., Grade 5, 826NYC
A student lists all the reasons why her school is the best!
by Kathryn, 826NYC
A very scientific origin poem about french fries, starting with an argument between the sun and the moon.
by Joshua, 826CHI
Alien monsters and a young boy forge a friendship over a dramatic series of events.
by Salma, Grade 5, 826 Boston
A student reminds herself of the many ways she shines
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 Pearl L., Age 10, 826DC
A story about Rory the dragon, the defender of all genders.
by Dahlia-Rose, 826NYC
A field guide to Queen Anne’s Lace and a day in the life from a flower’s perspective.
Perla Ortega, Age 9, 826 Valencia
A poet sweetly appreciates a teacher for her kindness.
by Walter Linares, Age 11, 826 Valencia
The secrets of a spy in a red venom suit unfold...
by Erriyanna, 826michigan
An epic poem about a younger sister. English and Spanish versions included.
by Charm R., Grade 5, 826 New Orleans
This poem tells the story of a courageous little bird.
by Keila S.O., 826michigan
An “I Am From” poem about growing up in Detroit.
by Kayamaghi, 826NYC
A lab experiment goes wrong and a humble scientist must save Superhero Land from a super speedy villain!
Nur Schlenker, Age 10, 826 Valencia
A student paints two images, one of Halloween night, and the second of home.
by Jalen, 826NYC
A series of superhero haiku inspired by engineering secret lairs.
by Abdinasir, 826 MSP
This poem shares what someone might experience on Halloween.
by Daphne, 826 Valencia
A girl named Chloe embarks on a heroic mission after discovering a new super-identity: Fluffy Justice!
by Salimatou, 826NYC
Together, a princess with superpowers and an orphan-turned-sidekick must save the king and queen of kingdom Atarica!
by Marco, 826LA
A screenplay about a plane crash and an epic journey to Mexico, with a twist!
by Penelope, 826 Valencia
In this superhero story, Super Duper Scarlet must save San Fran Superland from Doctor Nefario!
by Jaceon B., Grade 4, 826 New Orleans
A student describes their butter covered imaginary friend.
by Athena, 826NYC
An "I Am From" superhero persona poem.
by Hanako M., Age 10, 826michigan
A "sense"-sational poem about the flowers in their yard.
by Norah, Grade 5, 826DC
A student describes her mystical worm imaginary friend.
by Elena Chambers, 826michigan
Thinking of Cherry Coke lip gloss, community, and dancing, this narrator celebrates life from their front stoop.
by Jack, Grade 5, 826 New Orleans
In this transcript, a student shares three clear actions to stand up to bullies.
by Sumaya, 826 MSP
This poem uses analogies to describe different objects the writer would like to be.
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 Marisa, 826NYC
A student reports on Islamophobia, using research and interviews to explore this mindset and its damaging repercussions.
by Kevin J. Ortiz, 826DC
A personal narrative about a trip to Ocean City, a lonely puppy, and sharing our fears with others.
by Yarely, 826michigan
A poem about grandma. English and Spanish versions included.
Raquel Campos, Age 10, 826 Valencia
Three friends, inspired by a stream of butterflies, bake a beautiful cake.
by Reyes, 826NYC
A creative field guide to the eastern gray squirrel.
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 Marie, 826CHI
A monkey named Chesley saves the animals of the forest from an evil Master!
by Maia Sears, 826michigan
This student describes exciting things the future will bring, like elevators that can reach space!
by Robert, 826CHI
A collection of haikus spanning books and cosmology.
by Hope L.C., Age 10, 826DC
A silly story about dragon fruits -- no wait, fruit dragons!
by Kenneth Vasquez, Age 10, 826 Valencia
A student reflects on their love of soccer.
by Olivia, 826NYC
An elegy for corn.
by Meredith, 826michigan
A poem about globe-sized dreams.
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 Mohamed F., 826 MSP
This poem uses descriptive language to leave the reader clues about the animal it is depicting.
by Kelis, 826NYC
On the planet Mars, Zoe must defeat the supervillain Zygorn to avenge her family! Wait—was it all a dream?
by Kayla, 826LA
This author reflects on an act of kindness to someone in need.
by Simone, 826michigan
A poem about appreciating trees and why we should study them.
by Elaine, 826 Boston
A diary entry reflecting on a secret mission to Mars!
Vivien Norton, Age 12, 826michigan
A poet explores their love for writing with their friend.
by Oscar, 826CHI
The story of a lifetime—literally.
by Kaitlyn, 826NYC
A creation myth reimagined in a poem.
by Uma, 826NYC
A witty set of foolproof pickup lines.
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 Keila, 826michigan
An "I A From" poem. English and Spanish versions included.
by Milo, 826NYC
A creative origin story in which a programmer simultaneously creates life and biology in a program.
by Eric, 826CHI
This student recounts a fictional chat with George Washington about the American Revolution over a meal.
by Madison, 826 New Orleans
This poem leaves the reader descriptive clues to help them guess the mystery food.
by Luana Anticona Nolasco, age 10, 826 Valencia
An eerie encounter with a shapeshifter after a grocery run.
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 Jesús, 826 Valencia
In this superhero story, Spyman is on an important mission—saving donuts from becoming bagels!
by Jeffrey, 826DC
In this "I Wish" poem, written in both Spanish and English, a student dreams of a more colorful world.
by Victor, 826 Valencia
An ode to Beans, Rice, and Chicken.
by Charlie, 826michigan
A very scientific retelling of why dinosaurs went extinct.
by Liliana, 826DC
This student’s heartbreaking personal narrative describes what it can feel like to have your parents get divorced.
by Winta, 826DC
A concise but essential list of survival tips in the event of a sweet disaster.
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 Lyric White, age 10, 826 Valencia
A magical mountain quest to save a mermaid.
by Smila H., Age 10, 826LA
A powerful acrostic poem that shares an encouraging message.
by Aiden Spence, Grade 3, 826NYC
This poem describes all of the reasons why green is the best color.
by Maria, 826 Valencia
This student gives thanks to ordinary objects in an ode.
by Felix E., 826 Valencia
A student's fear is conquered after a startling discovery.
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.
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A student dreams of the most joyful place in the world--somewhere with their family and money!
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 Natalia, 826CHI
A story told by her grandfather leads Betty on a journey where fiction and reality collide.
by Lux, 826NYC
A student reflects on their experiences with bullying and how they’ll take a stand in the future.
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 Angel Flores Vazquez, 826 Valencia
This poem illustrates the effectiveness of descriptive language.
by Camilla S.R., Grade 5, 826 Valencia
A student describes her imaginary friend from Funky Town.
by Lina, 826 Valencia
A mischievous recipe calling for 3 tablespoons of candy, 10 gallons of not laughing, and 100 gallons of mother.
by Marisa, 826michigan
A series of tweets about an adventurous cat named Marcus. #SuperCat #Meow
by Dy’Stonie V., Grade 5, 826 New Orleans
A poem that highlights the bond between grandparent, grandchild, and a sweet perfume.
by K.M., 826DC
In this piece, a student describes the challenges of being a superhero and reflects on their power to shine.
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