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

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

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

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

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

A story about how Marcus becomes Marcela.

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

A letter to the future Madame President of the United States.

A piece that explores the connection between stars, legacy, and Black resilience.

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

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.

When Instagram becomes an unsightly battlefield.

From the 826 National anthology, Poets in Revolt!, this poet uses her voice to speak up for those who have been silenced in the indigenous community.

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

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

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?

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

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

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

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

Through redefining a label, a student reclaims a piece of their identity.

A student describes the eeriness of liminal spaces.

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

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

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

A celebration of self and exploration of core values.

A powerful poem that lifts up Black women.

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

A young Black student's perspective on how it feels to grow up Black in the United States.

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

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

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

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

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.

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

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

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

In this poem from the 826 National anthology, Poets in Revolt!, a student reflects on identity.

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

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

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

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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

A student reflects on the journey and struggle of growing in the face of adversity.

A poem about staying true to yourself during a challenging transition

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.