Grade 12
Fantasy/SciFiWritingTina Nguyen is a seventeen-year-old from Dorchester, Massachusetts, who attends the John D. O’Bryant High School. Her main interests consist of social and climate justice, biology, the arts, and gardening. She aspires to continue her journey as a climate justice activist in her future professional life and wants to build a more equitable and green society and system for Massachusetts. She also hopes to pursue a side career of publishing creative writing pieces, and is currently involved in numerous literature clubs and organizations.
Pronouns: They/Them and She/Her (interchangeably)
Wentworth is an endearing character, resembling a short, chubby shark standing on shark-like legs with big, wide eyes and an “I ❤️ Tomatoes” T-shirt. Despite his intimidating appearance, he exudes childlike innocence and kindness, always eager to share and promote love and kindness. He’s a bit clueless about what’s happening most of the time, but makes up for it with his generous spirit and simple wisdom. Wentworth enjoys blowing bubbles, riding bicycles, and attempting to cook, although he’s a bit clumsy in the kitchen. Despite his habit of talking with his mouth open and occasionally spitting food, he’s quick to apologize and clean up. He lives in a fish tank but loves venturing onto land for activities like grocery shopping and biking. Wentworth’s special talents include breathing both underwater and on land, communicating with sea life and humans alike, and performing impressive acrobatics, like backflips and cartwheels. We met during a moment of vulnerability, when he jumped out of his tank to offer me companionship and advice during a rough patch. Now, we enjoy baking tomato-based recipes, cycling adventures, evening walks, and the occasional journaling session together. Wentworth has become not just a friend, but a cherished companion who brings joy and laughter into my life.
ABOUT THE PROJECT
With Paramount Pictures’ latest film IF as inspiration, children around the nation put pens to paper to bring their imaginary friends to life through writing. Together, 826 and Paramount Pictures published three books of youth writing inspired by the upcoming film, starring John Krasinski, Ryan Reynolds, Cailey Fleming, Louis Gossett Jr., Jon Stewart, Awkwafina, Maya Rudolph, and Steve Carell.
See the lesson that inspired the writing here. Learn more about the project here.
by Lisbeth M.F., 826NYC
A story about how Marcus becomes Marcela.
by Lucas Hu, 826 Boston
A poem about staying true to yourself during a challenging transition
by Johnny Vasquez, 826 MSP
A family interview reveals a mother's painful past and shines a light on her persistence.
by Ryan, Grade 12, 826 Boston
In this public narrative, a student illustrates the hardships his uncle has faced to argue for a path to citizenship.
by Sally Phan, 826 Boston
A memoir that questions the idea of home and how it changes with time.
by Timothy T., Age 17, 826 Valencia
A student tells the story of how his family has influenced his life.
Yamilet J., 826LA
A student reflects on the fear and wonder of becoming a mother.
by Jana C., 826LA
A celebration of self and exploration of core values.
Kenya G., 17, 826LA
A poet relates her experience as a queer woman in the closet to a peacock in the zoo.
by Henry F., Grade 12, 826CHI
In this poem, a student reflects on identity.
by Manuel C., 17, 826DC
Manuel sees his name as joyful and strong, linked to faith, fun, and his favorite characters, with two names that reflect who he is at home and at school.
by Ryker, 826michigan
Liner notes that showcase the meaning and musicality of the Jimmy Ruffin song “What Becomes of the Brokenhearted.”
by Abner L., 17, 826DC
Abner explores the meaning of his name through color, joy, strength, and heritage, connecting it to culture, family, and faith.
by Jarmani M., Age 18, 826 Boston
Jarmani reflects on the pain of being rejected from his top high school, but through that challenge, he finds motivation. He grows more focused, disciplined, and driven to succeed in all areas.
by Michaiah Anderson, The 826 Dallas Project
In this poem, a student describes their family origins with an intimate point of view
by Leydi Di Villanueva, The 826 Dallas Project
This creative narrative imagines how the coronavirus views humanity during the pandemic.
by Colin Y., Age 17, 826 Valencia
A student describes how volunteering saved him from his online prison.
Annasian Walters, Grade 11-12, 826NYC
A student explores gratitude and love through sharing food.
by Denisse Reyes Gonzalez, Age 17, 826NYC
Using metaphors, this bilingual poem explores the idea of lost love.
by Sarah X. Age 18, 826Boston
A rousing public narrative from an author coming to terms with their identity as a young Chinese American woman and what they represent: the community of Boston's Chinatown.
Henry F., Grade 12, 826CHI
A trans student reflects on their desire to be male.
by Sarah X., Grade 12, 826 Boston
A student shares how they've uplifted their community.
by Nhu N., Grade 12, 826 Boston
A young writer reconciles their sexuality with the beliefs of their community.
by Lukoiy V.R.G., Grade 12, Woodburn, OR
A poet speaks out as a voice for change and all those who cannot speak.
by Jazlyn Moses, 826 National
One student explores their online persona and the lasting importance of conscientious social media practices.
by Melody Marcano, 826 Boston
In this poem, a student reflects on their roots and their desire to grow.
by Gisel J., 826LA
The power of public speaking shines through this student's memoir.
by Oriel, 826NYC
In this poem, an echoing question strikes a chord and reveals the tragic loss held within systemic injustice.
by Jesus C., Grade 12, 826LA
A poet identifies with a trapped ocelot at the zoo.
by Izzy T., 826 Valencia
A student reflects on memories of home and what binds her special community together.
by Olivia H., 826CHI
A piece that explores the connection between stars, legacy, and Black resilience.
by Jennifer Alcocer, The 826 Dallas Project
This personal narrative addresses the struggles of students graduating high school during the pandemic.
by Brandon R., 826LA
A student recounts the epic highs and lows of high school track and cross country.
by Katya Torres, The 826 Dallas Project
This bilingual poem explores the harrowing story of a boy working while in school to save his mother.
by Maria, Grade 12, 826 Boston
In this public narrative, a student makes the case for creating community change by building youth centers in her neighborhood.
by Vanessa Ramon-Ibarra, 826DC
Living in the digital world can create unwanted attachments, as one student laments.
by Isaiah, 826 New Orleans
This student reveals the mysterious origin story of the king cake. Hint: it includes Big Freedia, DJ Chicken Wing, and a massive party.
by Daniela Martinez, Grade 12, 826 Boston
A poem exploring an electric, freeing moment shared on the dance floor.
by Jesus Sanchez, The 826 Dallas Project
This creative short horror piece explores the mysteries and danger of a night in the woods.
by Helen, Grade 12, 826 MSP
In this letter from the Essential Words lesson, a senior at South High School in Minneapolis offers words of support to healthcare workers across the country, including her own mom.
by Franny, 826CHI
A student spins through space and a treasure trove of memories in this poem.
by Soraya, 826NYC
This student’s powerful piece reveals the essence of racial injustice.
by Jordan, 826 New Orleans
Crawfish, crayfish, or mudbugs. Whatever you call them, the writer of this poem doesn't like them.
by Albin C., Age 18, 826 Boston
A student recalls how he was able to take charge and turn his life around.
by Jizelle Villegas, Grade 12, 826 Dallas Project
The stunning and vulnerable poem processes feelings of loss, grief, and hope for the future.
by Cristina, 826CHI
A student recounts separation with a beloved friend through a nostalgic lens.
by Jahruwach Hamilton, Grade 10, 826NYC
In this rousing poem, a student asserts her strength and worth as a woman.
by Alanis T., Age 17, 826 Boston
A student reflects on how her relationship's with her parents has influenced her life.
by Bianca Morcho, 826 MSP
A personal essay that explores the different shades of the Black Lives Matter movement.
Cate H, Grade 12, 826CHI
A poet sets the stage to showcase her reflections on being trans.
by Sian Laing
When Instagram becomes an unsightly battlefield.
by Salma Khalif, 826 MSP
A powerful poem that lifts up Black women.
by Yojannie Pizarro, Age 17, 826 Boston
This poem explores the beauty of friendship.
by Terry Velasquez, Grade 12, The Bronx, NY
In this letter from the Essential Words lesson, a student shares gratitude for the dedication of nurses and gives “credit where credit is due.”
Rosman A., age 18, 826CHI
Smells swirl about a student walking around an ice cream shop.
by Kayla Wayne, Grade 11, 826NYC
In this poem, a student reflects on their first encounter with forced assimilation.
by Kaleo V.C., Age 17, 826 Valencia
A student looks back on their first day of kindergarten and how they've changed.
by Earl Williams Jr., The 826 Dallas Project
A powerful poetic piece about the experience of being Black in America.
by Karina Centeno, Grade 12, 826 Dallas Project
This poem takes an honest look at two sides of the writer's culture.
by Sylvia C., 826 Valencia
A poet demonstrates their devotion to love.
by Kailyn Espinosa, 826NYC
In this letter from the Essential Words lesson, a student shares how essential workers’ courage and compassion center her during these hectic times.
by Kayla, 826 Boston
This poem offers a very-real answer to "What do you want to be when you grow up?"
by Alphonsine M., 826LA
A student reflects on the journey and struggle of growing in the face of adversity.
Virginia Walker, age 18, 826 Boston
A student writes to a grandfather she never met.
by Matthew Inoa, 826 NYC
In this letter from the Essential Words lesson, a student describes how essential workers are the pulse of New York, fueling the city’s hope.
by Steysi Hailee, 826LA
A student reflects on a small moment and single sacrifice that transformed her outlook on giving.
by Jonas K., 826 National
A student explores the paradox of how technology is used amongst teenagers.
by Shayne Williams
Discover what one student experiences when they tuck their phone away for a whole day.
by Julianna Cruz, 826 Dallas Project
This narrative piece contemplates the struggle of immigrants during the pandemic.
by Camille, 826LA
A student finds her wings in unexpected places in this piece about the transition to college.
We are thrilled to have you as the newest member of our online community. Stay up-to-date on the the latest and most relevant resources, student publication opportunities, and what’s new with the 826 Digital community.
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