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

When Instagram becomes an unsightly battlefield.

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

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?

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

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

In this poem, a student reflects on identity.

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

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

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

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

A poem about staying true to yourself during a challenging transition

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

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

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

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

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

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.

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

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

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

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

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 powerful poem that lifts up Black women.

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

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.

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

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

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

Aliens give this student superpowers to help him fulfill his greatest dream.

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

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

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

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

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

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